Aerotow - Newsletter

On Sep 5, 9:29*am, GARY BOGGS wrote:
Here's a question to all:

Should we train tow pilots to pull the release when gliders get too
high and actually have them practice it regularly? *If the tug driver
has never actually let go of a glider on tow, he will probably not do
it in time when he actually needs to.

Yes. Once the elevator reaches the up-stop with the rope attached,
the pilot has lost control of the tug. The tug release must be pulled
while the pilot is still in control. Tug pilots aren't paid nearly
enough to put their lives at risk by delaying release.

Any glider pilot who has put the tug pilot in this position should
"buy the rope" and deal with the consequences.

As for "practicing it regularly", that would depend on a lot of things
like where the glider would land, where the rope would fall and
whether you can find it again.