Paragliding is an exhilarating sport, but even the most experienced pilots can end up with a rough landing from time to time. A hard touchdown can stress the wing's fabric, lines, and ribs, leading to wear that, if ignored, may compromise safety on the next flight. This guide walks you through the steps you need to take right after a rough landing, how to inspect and clean your wing, and what you can do yourself versus when to call a professional.
Immediate Post‑Landing Actions
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Secure the wing -- lay it out flat, keep the canopy away from sharp objects and direct sunlight. | Prevent further damage or UV degradation while you assess the situation. |
| Remove the harness and gear -- avoid dragging any equipment across the fabric. | Reduces friction that could create tears or abrasions. |
| Take photos -- snap a quick overview and close‑up shots of any visible dents, tears, or stretched lines. | Provides a record for yourself, your instructor, or a repair shop. |
Visual Inspection Checklist
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Fabric Surface
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Ribs and Reinforcements
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Lines and Connectors
- Examine sheath integrity: any abrasions, cuts, or exposed core.
- Check knots, carabiners, and risers for deformation or metal fatigue.
- Measure line lengths against the manufacturer's specifications---any stretch may indicate a hidden overload.
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Attachment Points
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UV and Chemical Exposure
- Look for discoloration or chalky spots that could indicate UV damage or chemical contamination (e.g., fuel, oil).
If anything looks suspicious, set the wing aside and proceed to cleaning before further assessment.
Cleaning the Wing
A clean wing is easier to inspect, and contaminants can accelerate fabric degradation.
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- Mix warm water with a small amount of non‑abrasive, low‑pH soap (e.g., a dedicated paraglider cleaner or gentle dish soap).
- Avoid solvents, bleach, or strong detergents---they can weaken the fabric coating.
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- Gently scrub with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Focus on areas with dirt, salt, or bird droppings.
- Rinse with clean water to flush out soap residue.
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- Hang the wing in a shaded, well‑ventilated area.
- Never use direct sunlight or heat guns; UV rays can degrade the ripstop coating.
Minor Repairs You Can Do Yourself
4.1 Small Tears (≤2 cm)
- Patch Material -- Use a paraglider repair kit that matches your wing's fabric (e.g., 70 D ripstop).
- Adhesive -- Apply a thin layer of fabric‑specific adhesive (often supplied with the kit).
- Apply the Patch -- Place the patch on the underside of the tear, press firmly, and let cure according to adhesive instructions (usually 24 h).
4.2 Frayed or Cut Lines
- Splice -- If the line core is intact but the sheath is damaged, you can splice a new sheath over the damaged segment using a heat‑shrink tube.
- Replace -- For severe cuts, cut the line cleanly and replace the segment with a new line of the same type and diameter. Tie the new segment using a double figure‑eight knot, then double‑check tension.
4.3 Loose Rib Inserts
- Re‑staple using a small fabric stapler designed for ripstop nylon.
- Ensure staples are flush and evenly spaced to avoid creating new stress points.
When to Seek Professional Help
| Issue | Why Professional Repair Is Recommended |
|---|---|
| Tears larger than 2 cm | Requires reinforced patches and possibly reshaping the airfoil. |
| Rib deformation | Needs re‑shaping in a controlled environment; improper repair affects glide performance. |
| Compromised line core | Re‑spooling or replacing lines must be done with precise tensioning to maintain handling characteristics. |
| Severe edge damage | Edge integrity is critical for pressure distribution; a professional can restore shape without weakening the structure. |
| Uncertainty | When in doubt, a certified repair shop can perform a thorough assessment and certify airworthiness. |
Most manufacturers have a list of authorized repair centers. Keep those contacts handy before you ever need them.
Storage and Preventive Measures
- Fold Properly -- Use the "diamond" or "triangle" method recommended by your wing's manual. Avoid sharp folds that could stress the fabric.
- Avoid Moisture -- Store the wing in a breathable bag; never seal it in a plastic bag that could trap humidity.
- Temperature Control -- Keep the wing away from extreme heat or cold (e.g., car trunks in summer).
- Routine Checks -- Before each flight, perform a quick "tug test" on all lines and inspect the leading edge for dents.
- Landing Technique -- Practice flare timing and aim for a smooth touchdown on soft, level terrain whenever possible. A little extra training on hard‑landing recovery can drastically reduce wear.
Quick Checklist for After a Rough Landing
- ☐ Secure wing away from hazards
- ☐ Remove all gear, take photos
- ☐ Perform visual inspection (fabric, ribs, lines, attachment points)
- ☐ Clean with mild soap, dry in shade
- ☐ Repair minor tears/line damage using kit
- ☐ Log any issues and decide if professional repair is needed
- ☐ Store wing correctly for the next flight
Final Thoughts
A rough landing is a reminder that even the best‑maintained equipment can be stressed. Prompt, methodical care not only extends the life of your paraglider wing but also ensures you stay safe aloft. By integrating regular inspections, proper cleaning, and timely repairs---plus a bit of preventive flying technique---you'll keep your wing performing at its best, flight after flight.
Happy soaring! 🚀