Thermal flying is a crucial skill in the paragliding progression of every pilot. Mastering this technique enables paraglider pilots to utilize thermals to fly higher and farther, serving as the foundation for 'touching the clouds' or embarking on cross-country flights to break personal records. More importantly, mastering thermal flying brings paraglider pilots truly closer to the ultimate freedom of soaring through the sky—an ability once exclusive to birds.
This book is a collection of numerous tips from the author designed to help you achieve success in thermal flying. It is highly valuable for both everyday thermal flying and more in-depth studies of the subject. A wealth of photos and illustrations helps make the invisible elements of the air more accessible. Additionally, the theory pages are presented in a fresh way that helps you reflect on your personal experiences and makes mastering the theory much easier. The main topics of the book include: ● The formation of thermals ● The shape of thermals ● The vortex structure of thermals ● Lift distribution within thermals ● Thermals on the windward and leeward sides ● Thermal trigger points ● Cloud types ● Clouds and weather ● Flying weather (by Volker Schwaniz) ● Thermal coring techniques
