Hang gliding

Hang gliding hyner

Lilienthal in flight

Lavezzari hang glider

Paresev 1-B in Tow Flight - GPN-2000-000212

File:Hang Gliding - My First Thermal.webm Hang gliding is an air sport or recreational activity in which a pilot flies a light, non-motorized foot-launched heavier-than-air aircraft called a hang glider. Most modern hang gliders are made of an aluminium alloy or composite frame covered with synthetic sailcloth to form a wing. The pilot is ensconced in a harness suspended from the airframe, and exercises control by shifting body weight in opposition to a control frame.

History

The development of hang gliding as a sport has its roots in the activities of pioneers such as Otto Lilienthal in the late 19th century. Lilienthal was responsible for the first documented flights with winged apparatuses. The sport gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, evolving from simple gliders to more sophisticated designs.

Design and Operation

Modern hang gliders are highly engineered to provide maximum performance. The design of the glider allows it to catch thermals and soar for long distances. The most common design is the flexible wing, made from fabric stretched over a frame, but rigid wings with a solid structure are also used. Pilots launch their gliders by running from a hill or cliff, reaching speeds that allow them to take off into the air.

Safety

While hang gliding is an exhilarating sport, it comes with risks. Pilots must undergo thorough training to learn about weather conditions, flight theory, and emergency procedures. The use of helmets, reserve parachutes, and other safety gear is standard practice.

Competitions and Records

Hang gliding competitions focus on cross-country flying, and tasks are often set to cover distances between turnpoints. The FAI World Hang Gliding Championships are held biannually and attract pilots from around the world. Records in the sport are overseen by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), including records for distance, duration, and altitude.

Cultural Impact

Hang gliding has influenced popular culture, appearing in films, advertisements, and as a symbol of freedom and adventure. It has also contributed to the development of paragliding, a related sport where pilots fly paragliders with a more flexible wing structure.

See Also

• Paragliding
• Gliding
• Air sports