In Flight Characteristics; Normal Flight; Active Flying; Turning - Ozone Mantra Manuel

In Flight Characteristics

The Mantra is a high aspect-ratio, performance orientated paraglider
and is intended for experienced pilots who have a good feel and
understanding of paragliders and active flying.
You will notice the good feeling of lift and speed of the Mantra; on
glides it remains solid and well pressured even through the
accelerated speed range as it has a very high resistance to collapses.
The handling characteristics of the mantra are truly amazing for such
a high aspect ratio wing, we have worked a lot on tuning the wing so
that it turns tightly but also efficiently as the ability to climb is very
important for XC and competition flying.
To get the most out of your Mantra we advise you to consider the
following information.

Normal Flight

Flying at 'trim speed' (hands-up), the Mantra will achieve its 'best
glide' speed for normal air, you should fly at this speed when gliding
downwind or when the air is not excessively sinking.
For better penetration in headwinds and improved glide performance
in sinking air, crosswinds or headwinds you should fly faster than trim
speed by using the accelerator system. Using up to half bar does not
degrade the glide angle or stability significantly and will improve your
flying performance, as you will reach the next thermal faster and
higher. At full speed the Mantra is stable, however we recommend
not to fly at full speed close to the ground or in turbulance.
By applying the brakes approximately 30cm, the Mantra will achieve
its minimum-sink rate, at this speed the Mantra will climb its best and
so should be used for thermalling and ridge soaring.

Active Flying

To minimise the likelihood of suffering collapses in turbulent
conditions, it is essential to fly actively.
All good pilots react to the feedback the gliders send them, and are
constantly adjusting their speed and pitch to match the movements
of the air. The key elements of active flying, are pitch control and
pressure control:
As the glider pitches in front of you, use the brakes to slow it down.
Equally, as the glider drops behind you, release the brakes to allow it
to speed up.
Flying with a bit of brake applied (approx 20cms) will give you feed
back from the wing. In turbulent conditions the internal pressure of
the wing can change and you can feel this through the brakes. The
aim is to maintain a constant pressure through the brakes. If you feel
a loss in pressure apply the brakes until normal pressure is resumed
then raise hands back to original position (this must be done quickly).
Avoid flying with continuous amounts of brake in rough air as you
could inadvertently stall the wing. Always consider your airspeed.
These movements can be symmetric or asymmetric; you may have
to apply both brakes or just one. These subtle adjustments will keep
the glider flying smoothly and directly above you and dramatically
reduce the chances of a collapse. These are skills are best learnt by
playing with the glider on the ground!
IMPORTANT: No pilot and no glider are immune to collapses
however active flying will virtually eliminate any tendency to
collapse. When the conditions are turbulent, be more active
and anticipate the movements of your wing. Always be aware
of your altitude and do not over-react. We advice you to keep
hold of your brakes. Do not fly in turbulent conditions.

Turning

To familiarise yourself with the MANTRA your first turns should be
gradual and progressive.
To make efficient and co-ordinated turns with the MANTRA first look
in the direction you want to go, then lean into it. Your first input for
directional change should be weight-shift, followed by the smooth
application of the brake until the desired bank angle is achieved. To
regulate the speed and radius of the turn, use the outer brake.
IMPORTANT : never initiate a turn at minimum speed (i.e.
with full brakes on) as you could risk entering a spin.
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