Flying In Rain / Precipitation

Modern wings are susceptible to rain and moisture. Flying with a wet wing can result in the loss of normal flight.

Due to the efficient, wrinkle-free design of the sail, water tends to bead on the leading edge causing flow separation. Flow separation will make the wing more prone to entering inadvertent parachutal stalls, so flying in the rain, or with a wet wing (e.g early morning dew) should be avoided at all costs.

If you are accidentally caught-out in a rain shower, it is best to land immediately. If your wing becomes wet in the air it is advised to maintain accelerated flight using the speed bar and/or releasing the trimmers, even during the final approach. DO NOT use big ears as a descent technique, big ears increases drag, and with a wet wing this will further increase the chances of a parachutal stall occurring. Instead, lose height with gentle 360’s and maintain your air speed at all times. If your wing enters parachutal stall when wet, immediately release the trimmers and accelerate the wing to regain airspeed.