In detail

This book provides a reference point for use in conjunction with acrobatic instruction. It aims to help provide an understanding of the important subjects that are essential for safe and successful acrobatic flying.

Section A: - Theory
Deals with the following four topics: I Safety Considerations 2 Flight Envelopes 3 Glider Design 4 Aresti (the graphical system used to portray acrobatic figures)

Section B: - Flying the Figures
Describes in general terms how to fly some of the figures most commonly encountered. There are eleven figures from the beginners or 'Standard' level and seven from the more advanced levels.

Appendix Includes a step-by-step guide to constructing Flight Envelopes for various gliders

About the authors

Peter Mallinson and Mike Woollard both started flying gliders at Nymphsfield in Gloucestershire in their late 20s and their flying careers progressed along parallel paths. They both spread their wings to include powered aviation at an early stage and were soon flying a Fournier RF4D motor glider. This aeroplane with its delightful acrobatic qualities undoubtedly encouraged them in their common fascination for aerobatics. In 1989 they attended a course in glider aerobatics run by the Polish champion, Joseph Solski and were instantly inspired by his remarkable flying and instructing skills. They went on to develop their own instructional techniques which have been used to teach many of the best acrobatic glider pilots flying in the UK today. This book is based on those techniques. Peter Mallinson lives near Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, and Mike Woollard lives in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.