Fall Flying – Safety Notice

Revised: 09-12-2025

Fall Flying

As the season shifts, this is a friendly but firm reminder to stay sharp: fall conditions bring unique risks for paragliding, especially here in New England. It’s up to each of us to manage those risks.

Key Topics to Review:

  • Thermals and wind changes: As the sun angle drops and surfaces cool, thermals may become weaker or more variable. Be ready for sudden changes in lift or sink.
  • Mountain/ ridge sites: If you fly at ridge or mountain launches, the wind and turbulence often increase in fall. What was smooth on summer days may become rougher now.
  • Early morning / late day flights: Shorter daylight means cooler surfaces and faster changes in conditions. Afternoon thermals may collapse earlier.
  • Wind and rotor: With trees bare, wind may channel differently and turbulence may be more pronounced. Pay special attention to wind shear, turbulence near ridges or cliffs.
  • Cold weather effects: Cold air means denser air—so your wing will behave differently. Also check your gear—hosing lines, stiff connector parts, reserve handle access, any tendencies for cold fingers or delayed reaction time.
  • Launch/landing site changes: Fall leaves, wet grass, mud, early frost – these affect both launch and landing surfaces. Be extra cautious about footing, take‐off run, ground handling.
  • Visibility/ lighting: Early dusk, lower sun angles, glare from wet surfaces or frost. Avoid flying late if you’ll be landing in the dark.
  • Conservative decision making: This is not the time to push margins. If you’re unsure—delay or land early. Make smart go/no‐go choices.

Action Items for You Before Flying:

  1. Check your gear—lines, connectors, harness, reserve—make sure nothing is compromised from earlier season use.
  2. Go for a weather & site update: What’s the wind speed/direction at the site? How about thermals? Are rotor/turbulence risks higher today?
  3. Brief your launch/landing with extra margin: choose a bigger safety buffer, anticipate weaker lift or more turbulence.
  4. Use a “plan B” mindset: What if things change? Where can you land early? What are your options?
  5. Fly with a “conservative” mind‐set: If you’ve got doubts, land early. Enjoy flying, but respect the mountain.