EN 926-2:2013

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-januar-2014
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Paragliding equipment - Paragliders - Part 2: Requirements and test methods for
classifying flight safety characteristics
Ausrüstung für das Gleitschirmfliegen - Gleitschirme - Teil 2: Anforderungen und
Prüfverfahren zur Klassifizierung der sicherheitsrelevanten Flugeigenschaften
Equipement pour le parapente - Parapentes - Partie 2: Exigences et procédures de test
pour classification des caractéristiques de sécurité en vol
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 926-2:2013
ICS:
97.220.40 Oprema za športe na Outdoor and water sports
prostem in vodne športe equipment
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EUROPEAN STANDARD
EN 926-2
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
November 2013
ICS 97.220.40 Supersedes EN 926-2:2005
English Version
Paragliding equipment - Paragliders - Part 2: Requirements and
test methods for classifying flight safety characteristics
Équipement pour le parapente - Parapentes - Partie 2: Ausrüstung für das Gleitschirmfliegen - Gleitschirme - Teil
Exigences et méthodes d'essai pour la classification des 2: Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren zur Klassifizierung der
caractéristiques de sécurité en vol sicherheitsrelevanten Flugeigenschaften
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 14 September 2013.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the same
status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United
Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels
© 2013 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 926-2:2013: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
Foreword .3
1 Scope .4
2 Normative references .4
3 Terms and definitions .4
4 Requirements .7
4.1 Paraglider classes .7
4.2 Classification of flight characteristics .8
4.3 Failure .8
4.4 Flight characteristics .8
5 Flight tests . 29
5.1 General . 29
5.2 Apparatus . 29
5.3 Test specimen . 30
5.4 Test conditions . 32
5.5 Procedure . 32
6 Test files . 44
6.1 Test file information. 44
6.2 Items accompanying the test files . 44
7 User's manual. 44
8 Manufacturing record . 46
9 Marking . 47
Annex A (normative) Measuring suspension line lengths . 49

Foreword
This document (EN 926-2:2013) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 136 “Sports, play-ground
and other recreational facilities and equipment”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical text or
by endorsement, at the latest by May 2014, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by
May 2014.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent rights.
CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN 926-2:2005.
In comparison with the previous edition EN 926-2:2005, the following significant changes have been made:
 editorial revision;
 introduction of new definitions;
 modification of paraglider's classification;
 update of marking;
 introduction of additional lines paragraph;
 harness dimensions have been modified;
 test methods for asymmetric and symmetric collapse have been improved;
 update of test method for behaviour exiting a fully developed spiral dive.
This document is one of a series of standards on equipment for paragliding as follows:
 EN 926-1, Paragliding equipment — Paragliders — Part 1: Requirements and test methods for structural
strength
 EN 926-2, Paragliding equipment — Paragliders — Part 2: Requirements and test methods for classifying flight
safety characteristics
 EN 1651, Paragliding equipment — Harnesses — Safety requirements and strength tests
 EN 12491, Paragliding equipment — Emergency parachutes — Safety requirements and test methods
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech
Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

1 Scope
This European Standard specifies requirements and test methods for classifying the flight safety characteristics of
paragliders in terms of the demands on pilot flying skills.
This document is intended for the use of independent testing laboratories qualified for flight testing paragliders.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are indispensable for
its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 926-1, Paragliding equipment — Paragliders — Part 1: Requirements and test methods for structural strength
EN 966, Helmets for airborne sports
EN 1651, Paragliding equipment — Harnesses — Safety requirements and strength tests
EN 12491, Paragliding equipment — Emergency parachutes — Safety requirements and test methods
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
paraglider
ultralight glider with no primary rigid structure, for which take-off and landing are on foot, with the pilot (and
potentially one passenger) carried in a harness (or harnesses) connected to the wing
3.2
harness
assembly composed of straps and fabric for supporting the pilot in the seated or semi-recumbent or standing
position
Note 1 to entry: The harness is attached to the wing via two rings or connectors; it can also be integral with the wing via
risers.
3.3
emergency parachute
emergency device intended to slow the descent of a paraglider pilot in the event of an incident in flight, which is
deployed by the pilot by an intentional manual action
Note 1 to entry: This may be unsteered or steerable.
3.4
controls
primary steering and speed controls which are designated as such by the manufacturer
3.5
trimmer
lockable pitch adjustment system
Note 1 to entry: Action by the pilot is required to return it to the initial position.
3.6
accelerator
secondary pitch control mechanism generally operated by the feet, which automatically returns to the initial position
when the action of the pilot stops
3.7
accelerator fully activated
when the mechanical limits of the glider are reached and further action on the accelerator does not result in a
further decrease of the angle of attack
3.8
action of the pilot
any transfer of weight, action on the controls, the accelerator or on the trimmer
3.9
normal flight
flight condition in which the paraglider is fully inflated and is following a trajectory close to straight flight (at a speed
close to trim speed) without any action on the part of the pilot
Note 1 to entry: A small number of cells may still be collapsed.
3.10
spiral dive
flight condition in which the paraglider is fully inflated and is following a circling, steep, nose down trajectory with
pitch angle of more than 70° and the angle of the span relative to the horizontal between 0° and 40° as illustrated in
Figure 1
Key
a angle of the span relative to the horizon
b pitch angle
Figure 1 — Illustration of a spiral dive
3.11
spontaneous recovery
when the paraglider returns to normal flight without any action on the part of the pilot
3.12
front collapse
folding under of the leading edge such that the top surface is visible to the pilot
Note 1 to entry: Deformation of the leading edge is not considered to be a front collapse.
3.13
cascade
transition from one involuntary abnormal flight condition to another involuntary abnormal flight condition
3.14
minimum speed
slowest airspeed maintainable without entering a deep stall or full stall
3.15
trim speed
airspeed of the paraglider in straight flight without activating the controls or the accelerator
3.16
maximum speed
airspeed of the paraglider in straight flight with the controls in the zero position and the accelerator fully activated
Note 1 to entry: Maximum speed is only used when referring to gliders equipped with an accelerator.
3.17
low speed
airspeed of the paraglider in straight flight with the controls at 50 % of travel between the zero and the symmetric
stall position, i.e. 50 % of the symmetric control travel
3.18
weight in flight
total weight (mass) of the pilot and his entire paragliding equipment (including the glider) ready to fly
Note 1 to entry: For the purposes of this document, masses are indicated in kilograms rounded to the nearest integer value.
3.19
additional lines
cross lines or folding lines used to help the test pilot in achieving specified manoeuvres
3.20
cross line
single line going from one riser to any position on an opposite A-line or A-line attachment point
3.21
folding lines
copy of the complete geometry of the A-lines (angle, cascade, length) used to help the test pilot in achieving
specified manoeuvres
4 Requirements
4.1 Paraglider classes
The class of a paraglider is determined according to 4.2.
The class is intended to give pilots a guideline on whether a paraglider is suitable for their level of skill (see
Table 1).
Table 1 — Description of the paraglider classes
Class Description of flight characteristics Description of pilot skills required
A Paragliders with maximum passive safety and Designed for all pilots including pilots under all
extremely forgiving flying characteristics. Gliders levels of training.
with good resistance to departures from normal
flight.
B Paragliders with good passive safety and forgiving Designed for all pilots and may be suitable for
flying characteristics. Gliders with some resistance pilots under training if recommended by the
to departures from normal flight. manufacturer.
C Paragliders with moderate passive safety and with Designed for pilots familiar with recovery
potentially dynamic reactions to turbulence and techniques, who fly “actively” and regularly, and
pilot errors. Recovery to normal flight may require understand the implications of flying a glider with
precise pilot input. reduced passive safety.
D Paragliders with demanding flying characteristics Designed for pilots well practised in recovery
and potentially violent reactions to turbulence and techniques, who fly very actively, have significant
pilot errors. Recovery to normal flight requires experience of flying in turbulent conditions, and
precise pilot input. who accept the implications of flying such a wing.
4.2 Classification of flight characteristics
When testing in accordance with the procedures 5.5.18.1 to 5.5.18.23, various aspects of the paraglider's
behaviour are measured. These measurements are classified according to 4.4.1 to 4.4.24.
The class of a paraglider according to this document is determined by the highest classification obtained, i.e. by the
highest level of pilot skill required (see Table 1).
4.3 Failure
The glider has failed the test procedure if either:
a) as a consequence of tests 5.5.18.1 to 5.5.18.23 any failure of any part or component occurs;
b) the results of any of the tests 5.5.18.1 to 5.5.18.23 are not classified A, B, C or D.
NOTE In the classification tables in 4.4.1 to 4.4.24 the letter "F" (failed) is used to identify unacceptable behaviour.
4.4 Flight characteristics
4.4.1 Inflation/take-off
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.1, it is found out how difficult it is to take-off with this glider (including
checking for undesirable tendencies).
The behaviour of the paraglider is measured according to Table 2 and classified according to Table 3.
Table 2 — Measurements and possible ranges in the inflation/take-off test
Measurement Ranges
Rising behaviour Smooth, easy and constant rising,
no pilot correction required
Easy rising, some pilot correction
is required
Overshoots, shall be slowed
down to avoid a front collapse
Hangs back
Special take-off technique No
required
Yes
Table 3 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the inflation/take-off test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 2) Classification
Rising behaviour —
Smooth, easy and constant rising A
Easy rising, some pilot correction is required B
Overshoots, shall be slowed down to C
avoid a front collapse
Hangs back D
Special take-off technique required —
No A
Yes C
4.4.2 Landing
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.2, it is found out how difficult it is to flare and land this glider (including
checking for undesirable tendencies).
The behaviour of the paraglider is measured according to Table 4 and classified according to Table 5.
Table 4 — Measurements and possible ranges in the landing test
Measurement Ranges
Special landing technique required No
Yes
Table 5 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the landing test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 4) Classification
Special landing technique required —
No A
Yes D
4.4.3 Speeds in straight flight
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.3, it is made sure that the paraglider is not too slow (hands up) and that an
adequate speed range is achievable using the controls only (not activating the accelerator).
The behaviour of the paraglider is measured according to Table 6 and classified according to Table 7.
(The speeds recorded in this test are not to be published.)
Table 6 — Measurements and possible ranges in the speeds in straight flight test
Measurement Ranges
Trim speed more than 30 km/h Yes
No
Speed range using the controls larger Yes
than 10 km/h
No
Minimum speed Less than 25 km/h
25 km/h to 30 km/h
Greater than 30 km/h
Table 7 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the speeds in straight flight test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 6) Classification
Trim speed more than 30 km/h —
Yes A
No F
Speed range using the controls larger than —
10 km/h
Yes A
No F
Minimum speed —
Less than 25 km/h A
25 km/h to 30 km/h B
Greater than 30 km/h D
4.4.4 Control movement
The paraglider shall have acceptable control force and control travel.
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.4, the glider's control force and control travel are measured according to
Table 8 and classified according to Table 9.
Table 8 — Measurements and possible ranges in the control movement test
Measurement Ranges
Symmetric control pressure Increasing
Approximately constant
Decreasing
Symmetric control travel (cm) max. weight in flight up to max. weight in flight 80 kg max. weight in flight
80 kg to 100 kg greater than 100 kg
Greater than 55 Greater than 60 Greater than 65
40 to 55 45 to 60 50 to 65
35 to 40 35 to 45 35 to 50
Less than 35 Less than 35 Less than 35
Table 9 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the control movement test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 8) Classification
Symmetric control pressure Symmetric control travel (cm) —
max. weight in flight up max. weight in flight max. weight in flight —
to 80 kg 80 kg to 100 kg greater than 100 kg
Increasing Greater than 55 Greater than 60 Greater than 65 A
Increasing 40 to 55 45 to 60 50 to 65 C
Increasing 35 to 40 35 to 45 35 cm to 50 D
Increasing Less than 35 Less than 35 Less than 35 F
Approximately constant Greater than 55 Greater than 60 Greater than 65 B
Approximately constant 40 to 55 45 to 60 50 to 65 C
Approximately constant 35 to 40 35 to 45 35 to 50 F
Approximately constant Less than 35 Less than 35 Less than 35 F
Decreasing any any any F
4.4.5 Pitch stability exiting accelerated flight
This test is only required for paragliders equipped with an accelerator.
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.5, it is checked that the paraglider returns to normal flight when the
accelerator is quickly released.
The behaviour of the paraglider is measured according to Table 10 and classified according to Table 11.
Table 10 — Measurements and possible ranges in the pitch stability exiting accelerated flight test
Measurement Ranges
Dive forward angle on exit Dive forward less than 30°
Dive forward 30° to 60°
Dive forward more than 60°
Collapse occurs Yes
No
Table 11 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the pitch stability exiting accelerated flight test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 10) Classification
Dive forward angle on exit —
Dive forward less than 30° A
Dive forward 30° to 60° C
Dive forward more than 60° F
Collapse occurs —
No A
Yes F
4.4.6 Pitch stability operating controls during accelerated flight
This test is only required for paragliders equipped with an accelerator.
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.6, the behaviour of the paraglider after activating the controls in accelerated
flight is checked.
The behaviour of the paraglider is measured according to Table 12 and classified according to Table 13.
Table 12 — Measurements and possible ranges in the pitch stability operating controls during accelerated
flight test
Measurement Ranges
Collapse occurs No
Yes
Table 13 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the pitch stability operating controls
during accelerated flight test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 12) Classification
Collapse occurs —
No A
Yes F
4.4.7 Roll stability and damping
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.7, it is checked that the paraglider returns to normal flight from large control
input and that roll oscillations are damped.
The behaviour of the paraglider is measured according to Table 14 and classified according to Table 15.
Table 14 — Measurements and possible ranges in the roll stability and damping test
Measurement Ranges
Oscillations Reducing
Not reducing
Table 15 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the roll stability and damping test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 14) Classification
Oscillations —
Reducing A
Not reducing F
4.4.8 Stability in gentle spirals
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.8, the glider's behaviour during and exiting from gentle spirals is measured
according to Table 16 and classified according to Table 17.
Table 16 — Measurements and possible ranges in the stability in gentle spirals test
Measurement Ranges
Tendency to return to straight flight Spontaneous exit
Turn remains
constant
Turn tightens
Table 17 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the stability in gentle spirals test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 16) Classification
Tendency to return to straight flight —
Spontaneous exit A
Turn remains constant C
Turn tightens F
4.4.9 Behaviour exiting a fully developed spiral dive
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.9, the glider's behaviour during and exiting from steep spirals is measured
according to Table 18 and classified according to Table 19.
The G force and/or the rate of turn are recorded for documentation and information purposes.
Table 18 — Measurements and possible ranges in the behaviour exiting a fully developed spiral dive
Measurement Ranges
Initial response of glider (first 180°) Immediate reduction of rate of turn
No immediate reaction
Immediate increase in rate of turn
Tendency to return to straight flight Spontaneous exit (g force decreasing, rate of turn
decreasing)
Turn remains constant (g force constant, rate of turn
constant)
Turn tightens (g force increasing, rate of turn
increasing)
Turn angle to recover normal flight Less than 720°, spontaneous recovery
720° to 1 080°, spontaneous recovery
1 080° to 1 440°, spontaneous recovery
With pilot action
Table 19 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the behaviour exiting a fully developed spiral dive
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 18) Classification
Initial response of glider (first 180°) —
Immediate reduction of rate of turn A
No immediate reaction B
Immediate increase in rate of turn C
Tendency to return to straight flight —
Spontaneous exit (g force decreasing, rate of turn decreasing) A
Turn remains constant (g force constant, rate of turn constant) D
Turn tightens (g force increasing, rate of turn increasing) F
Turn angle to recover normal flight —
Less than 720°, spontaneous recovery A
720° to 1 080°, spontaneous recovery B
1 080° to 1 440°, spontaneous recovery C
With pilot action D
4.4.10 Symmetric front collapse
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.10, the glider's behaviour and recovery from a front collapse is measured
according to Table 20 and classified according to Table 21.
If the paraglider is equipped with an accelerator, its behaviour in the symmetric front collapse test shall be classified
both with and without its use.
Table 20 — Measurements and possible ranges in the symmetric front collapse test
Measurement Ranges
Entry Rocking back less than 45°
Rocking back greater than 45°
Recovery Spontaneous in less than 3 s
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 3 s
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 3 s
Dive forward angle on exit Dive forward 0° to 30°
Dive forward 30° to 60°
Dive forward 60° to 90°
Dive forward greater than 90°
Change of course Keeping course
Entering a turn of less than 90°
Entering a turn of 90° to 180°
Cascade occurs No
Yes
Table 21 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the symmetric front collapse test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 20) Classification
Entry —
Rocking back less than 45° A
Rocking back greater than 45° C
Recovery —
Spontaneous in less than 3 s A
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s B
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 3 s D
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 3 s F
Dive forward angle on exit Change of course —
Dive forward 0° to 30° Keeping course A
Dive forward 0° to 30° Entering a turn of less than 90° A
Dive forward 0° to 30° Entering a turn of 90° to 180° C
Dive forward 30° to 60° Keeping course B
Dive forward 30° to 60° Entering a turn of less than 90° B
Dive forward 30° to 60° Entering a turn of 90° to 180° C
Dive forward 60° to 90° Keeping course D
Dive forward 60° to 90° Entering a turn of less than 90° D
Dive forward 60° to 90° Entering a turn of 90° to 180° F
Dive forward greater than 90° Keeping course F
Dive forward greater than 90° Entering a turn of less than 90° F
Dive forward greater than 90° Entering a turn of 90° to 180° F
Cascade occurs —
No A
Yes F
4.4.11 Exiting deep stall (parachutal stall)
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.11, it is found out how difficult it is to exit a deep stall with this glider
(including checking for undesirable tendencies).
The behaviour of the paraglider is measured according to Table 22 and classified according to Table 23.
Table 22 — Measurements and possible ranges in the exiting deep stall (parachutal stall) test
Measurement Ranges
Deep stall achieved Yes
No
Recovery Spontaneous in less than 3 s
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 5 s
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 5 s
Dive forward angle on exit Dive forward 0° to 30°
Dive forward 30° to 60°
Dive forward 60° to 90°
Dive forward greater than 90°
Change of course Changing course less than 45°
Changing course 45° or more
Cascade occurs No
Yes
Table 23 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the exiting deep stall (parachutal stall) test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 22) Classification
Deep stall achieved —
Yes A
No A
Recovery —
Spontaneous in less than 3 s A
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s C
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 5 s D
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 5 s F
Dive forward angle on exit —
Dive forward 0° to 30° A
Dive forward 30° to 60° B
Dive forward 60° to 90° D
Dive forward greater than 90° F
Change of course —
Changing course less than 45° A
Changing course 45° or more C
Cascade occurs —
No A
Yes F
4.4.12 High angle of attack recovery
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.12, the glider's recovery from high angles of attack is measured according
to Table 24 and classified according to Table 25.
Table 24 — Measurements and possible ranges in the high angle of attack recovery test
Measurement Ranges
Recovery Spontaneous in less than 3 s
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 3 s
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 3 s
Cascade occurs No
Yes
Table 25 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the high angle of attack recovery test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 24) Classification
Recovery —
Spontaneous in less than 3 s A
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s C
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 3 s D
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 3 s F
Cascade occurs —
No A
Yes F
4.4.13 Recovery from a developed full stall
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.13, the glider's behaviour when recovering from a maintained full stall (and
in particular its dive forward behaviour) is measured according to Table 26 and classified according to Table 27.
Table 26 — Measurements and possible ranges in the full stall test
Measurement Ranges
Dive forward angle on exit Dive forward 0° to 30°
Dive forward 30° to 60°
Dive forward 60° to 90°
Dive forward greater than 90°
Collapse No collapse
Symmetric collapse
Cascade occurs (other than collapses) No
Yes
Rocking back Less than 45°
Greater than 45°
Line tension Most lines tight
Many visibly slack lines
Table 27 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the full stall test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 26) Classification
Dive forward angle on exit —
Dive forward 0° to 30° A
Dive forward 30° to 60° B
Dive forward 60° to 90° C
Dive forward greater than 90° F
Collapse —
No collapse A
Symmetric collapse C
Cascade occurs (other than collapses) —
No A
Yes F
Rocking back —
Less than 45° A
Greater than 45° C
Line tension —
Most lines tight A
Many visibly slack lines F
4.4.14 Asymmetric collapse
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.14, the glider's behaviour and recovery from an asymmetric collapse is
measured according to Table 28 and classified according to Table 29.
If the paraglider is equipped with an accelerator, its behaviour in the asymmetric collapse test shall be classified
both with and without its use.
Table 28 — Measurements and possible ranges in the asymmetric collapse test
Measurement Ranges
Change of course until re-inflation Less than 90°
90° to 180°
180° to 360°
Greater than 360°
Maximum dive forward or roll angle Dive or roll angle 0° to 15°
Dive or roll angle 15° to 45°
Dive or roll angle 45° to 60°
Dive or roll angle 60° to 90°
Dive or roll angle greater than 90°
Re-inflation behaviour Spontaneous re-inflation
Inflates in less than 3 s from start of pilot action
Inflates in 3 s to 5 s from start of pilot action
No re-inflation within a further 5 s
Total change of course Less than 360°
Greater than 360°
Collapse on the opposite side occurs No (or only a small number of collapsed cells with
a spontaneous re-inflation)
Yes, no turn reversal
Yes, causing turn reversal
Twist occurs No
Yes
Cascade occurs No
Yes
Table 29 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the asymmetric collapse test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 28) Classification
Change of course until re-inflation Maximum dive forward or roll angle —
Less than 90° Dive or roll angle 0° to 15° A
Dive or roll angle 15° to 45° A
Dive or roll angle 45° to 60° C
Dive or roll angle 60° to 90° D
Dive or roll angle greater than 90° F
90° to 180° Dive or roll angle 0° to 15° A
Dive or roll angle 15° to 45° B
Dive or roll angle 45° to 60° C
Dive or roll angle 60° to 90° D
Dive or roll angle greater than 90° F
180° to 360° Dive or roll angle 0° to 15° A
Dive or roll angle 15° to 45° C
Dive or roll angle 45° to 60° C
Dive or roll angle 60° to 90° D
Dive or roll angle greater than 90° F
Greater than 360° Dive or roll angle 0° to 15° C
Dive or roll angle 15° to 45° C
Dive or roll angle 45° to 60° D
Dive or roll angle 60° to 90° F
Dive or roll angle greater than 90° F
Re-inflation behaviour —
Spontaneous re-inflation A
Inflates in less than 3 s from start of pilot action C
Inflates in 3 s to 5 s from start of pilot action D
No re-inflation within a further 5 s F
Total change of course —
Less than 360° A
Greater than 360° with tendency to recover (g force decreasing, rate of C
turn decreasing)
Greater than 360° without tendency to recover (g force not decreasing, F
rate of turn not decreasing)
Collapse on the opposite side occurs —
No (or only a small number of collapsed cells with a spontaneous A
re- inflation)
Yes , no turn reversal C
Yes, causing turn reversal D
Twist occurs —
No A
Yes F
Cascade occurs —
No A
Yes F
4.4.15 Directional control with a maintained asymmetric collapse
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.15, the glider's directional controllability while affected by an asymmetric
collapse (the ability to fly straight and to turn away from the collapsed side) is measured according to Table 30 and
classified according to Table 31.
Table 30 — Measurements and possible ranges in the directional control with a maintained asymmetric
collapse test
Measurement Ranges
Able to keep course Yes
No
180° turn away from the collapsed side possible in Yes
10 s
No
Amount of control range between turn and stall or spin More than 50 % of the symmetric control travel
25 % to 50 % of the symmetric control travel
Less than 25 % of the symmetric control travel
Table 31 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the directional control
with a maintained asymmetric collapse test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 30) Classification
Able to keep course —
Yes A
No F
180° turn away from the collapsed side possible in 10 s —
Yes A
No F
Amount of control range between turn and stall or spin —
More than 50 % of the symmetric control travel A
25 % to 50 % of the symmetric control travel C
Less than 25 % of the symmetric control travel D
4.4.16 Trim speed spin tendency
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.16, the glider's tendency to enter a spin from trim speed is measured
according to Table 32 and classified according to Table 33.
Table 32 — Measurements and possible ranges in the trim speed spin tendency test
Measurement Ranges
Spin occurs No
Yes
Table 33 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the trim speed spin tendency test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 32) Classification
Spin occurs —
No A
Yes F
4.4.17 Low speed spin tendency
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.17, the glider's tendency to enter a spin from low speed is measured
according to Table 34 and classified according to Table 35.
Table 34 — Measurements and possible ranges in the low speed spin tendency test
Measurement Ranges
Spin occurs No
Yes
Table 35 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the low speed spin tendency test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 34) Classification
Spin occurs —
No A
Yes D
4.4.18 Recovery from a developed spin
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.18, the glider's behaviour and recovery from a fully developed spin is
measured according to Table 36 and classified according to Table 37.
Table 36 — Measurements and possible ranges in the recovery from a developed spin test
Measurement Ranges
Spin rotation angle after release Stops spinning in less than 90°
Stops spinning in 90° to 180°
Stops spinning in 180° to 360°
Does not stop spinning within 360°
Cascade occurs No
Yes
Table 37 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the recovery from a developed spin test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 36) Classification
Spin rotation angle after release —
Stops spinning in less than 90° A
Stops spinning in 90° to 180° B
Stops spinning in 180° to 360° D
Does not stop spinning within 360° F
Cascade occurs —
No A
Yes F
4.4.19 B-line stall
This test manoeuvre is not required if the manufacturer excludes this manoeuvre in the user's manual and the
B-risers are clearly marked accordingly.
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.19, the glider's behaviour and recovery from a B-line stall is measured
according to Table 38 and classified according to Table 39.
Table 38 — Measurements and possible ranges in the B-line stall test
Measurement Ranges
Change of course before release Changing course less than 45°
Changing course more than 45°
Behaviour before release Remains stable with straight span
Remains stable without straight span
Unstable
Recovery Spontaneous in less than 3 s
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 3 s
Recovery through pilot action between a further 3 s to 5 s
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 5 s
Dive forward angle on exit Dive forward 0° to 30°
Dive forward 30° to 60°
Dive forward 60° to 90°
Dive forward greater than 90°
Cascade occurs No
Yes
Table 39 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the B-line stall test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 38) Classification
Change of course before release —
Changing course less than 45° A
Changing course more than 45° C
Behaviour before release —
Remains stable with straight span A
Remains stable without straight span C
Unstable D
Recovery —
Spontaneous in less than 3 s A
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s B
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 3 s D
Recovery through pilot action between a further 3 s to 5 s D
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 5 s F
Dive forward angle on exit —
Dive forward 0° to 30° A
Dive forward 30° to 60° A
Dive forward 60° to 90° C
Dive forward greater than 90° F
Cascade occurs —
No A
Yes F
4.4.20 Big ears
This test manoeuvre is not required if the manufacturer excludes this manoeuvre in the user's manual and the
A-risers are clearly marked accordingly.
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.20, the glider's behaviour and handling during and exiting big ears is
measured according to Table 40 and classified according to Table 41.
Table 40 — Measurements and possible ranges in the big ears test
Measurement Ranges
Entry procedure Dedicated controls
Standard technique
No dedicated controls and non-standard technique
Behaviour during big ears Stable flight
Unstable flight
Deep stall occurs
Recovery Spontaneous in less than 3 s
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 3 s
Recovery through pilot action between a further 3 s to 5 s
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 5 s
Dive forward angle on exit Dive forward 0° to 30°
Dive forward 30° to 60°
Dive forward 60° to 90°
Dive forward greater than 90°
Table 41 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the big ears test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 40) Classification
Entry procedure —
Dedicated controls A
Standard technique A
No dedicated controls and non-standard technique C
Behaviour during big ears —
Stable flight A
Unstable flight C
Deep stall occurs F
Recovery —
Spontaneous in less than 3 s A
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s B
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 3 s B
Recovery through pilot action between a further 3 s to 5 s D
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 5 s F
Dive forward angle on exit —
Dive forward 0° to 30° A
Dive forward 30° to 60° D
Dive forward 60° to 90° F
Dive forward greater than 90° F
4.4.21 Big ears in accelerated flight
This test is only required for paragliders equipped with an accelerator.
This test manoeuvre is not required if the manufacturer excludes this manoeuvre in the user's manual and the
A-risers are clearly marked accordingly.
When tested in accordance with 5.5.18.21, the glider's behaviour and handling during and exiting big ears when
using the accelerator is measured according to Table 42 and classified according to Table 43.
Table 42 — Measurements and possible ranges in the big ears in accelerated flight test
Measurement Ranges
Entry procedure Dedicated controls
Standard technique
No dedicated controls and non-standard technique
Behaviour during big ears Stable flight
Unstable flight
Deep stall occurs
Recovery Spontaneous in less than 3 s
Spontaneous in 3 s to 5 s
Recovery through pilot action in less than a further 3 s
Recovery through pilot action between a further 3 s to 5 s
Recovery through pilot action in more than a further 5 s
Dive forward angle on exit Dive forward 0° to 30°
Dive forward 30° to 60°
Dive forward 60° to 90°
Dive forward greater than 90°
Behaviour immediately after releasing Stable flight
the accelerator while maintaining big
Unstable flight
ears
Deep stall occurs
Table 43 — Classification of a paraglider's behaviour in the big ears in accelerated flight test
Measurement and ranges (according to Table 42) Classification
Entry procedure —
Dedicated controls A
Standard technique A
No dedicated controls and non-standard technique C
Behaviour during big ears —
Stable flight A
Unstable flight C
Deep stall occurs F
Recovery —
Spontaneous in less than 3 s A
S
...