MAC PARA Yukon User Manual

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Contents

GENERAL................................................................................................................... 3

OVERALL PLAN......................................................................................................... 4

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION ...................................................................................... 5

MATERIALS................................................................................................................ 9

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS............................................................................... 10

HARNESS................................................................................................................. 10

CHECKS ON THE NEW PARAGLIDER................................................................... 11

ADJUSTING BRAKE LINES ..................................................................................... 11

FLYING THE YUKON............................................................................................... 12

TOWING................................................................................................................... 15

MOTORISED FLIGHT............................................................................................... 16

EXTREME FLYING MANOEUVRES ........................................................................ 16

RAPID DESCENTS................................................................................................... 19

LOOKING AFTER YOUR PARAGLIDER.................................................................. 21

TREATING NATURE WITH RESPECT.................................................................... 22

LINE PLANS ............................................................................................................. 22

LINE PLAN YUKON.................................................................................................. 23

MANUAL FOR PARAGLIDER CHECK..................................................................... 24

CHECKS................................................................................................................... 26

TEST FLIGHT CERTIFICATE................................................................................... 27

TECHNICAL DATA................................................................................................... 27

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GENERAL

Dear MAC PARA pilot

We congratulate you on your purchase of a MAC PARA paraglider. Extensive
development work and numerous tests make the Yukon a light weight performance ­intermediate paraglider with maximum possible safety. The Yukon is constructed for
thermal and cross-country flying, and will enable pilots to get maximum e njoyment. The
Yukon offers very easy inflation and simple ground-handling characteristics by take off,
excellent handling in flight and easy landing. Please read this manual carefully before
you start, this way you will g et the most out of your glider, an d enjoy many nice flights.
MAC PARA wish you many pleasant flights with your Yukon.

Please read this manual carefully and note following details:

Paragliding is a sport, which demands, besides the optimum equipment, a high degr ee
of attentiveness, good judgement, and theoretical knowledge. Paragliding can be a
dangerous sport, which may lead to injury and death. This paraglider meets at the time
of delivery requirements of the EN (Europea n Norm) 926 or LTF (German Certificat e of
Airworthiness). Any alternations to the paraglider will render its certification invali d! The
use of this paraglider is solely at the user's own risk! Manufacturer and distributor do n ot
accept any liability. Pilots are responsible for their own safety and their paraglider
airworthiness. The paraglider carries no warranty! The author assumes that the pilot is
in possession of a valid paragliding licence for glider's categor y, insur ance etc.

Before delivery, as well as during production, each paraglider goes through a strict
visual inspection, and is test-flown by your dealer. Stamps on the p lacard, together with
a completed test-flight certificate, confirm this. Check that the paraglider has been test­flown before your first take-off. If it has not, consult your dealer.

Any inadequate use or misuse increases the risks consider ably. The Yukon must not be
used outside the certified weight range. The Yukon must not be used during rain or
snow-fall. The Yukon must not be used in high or gust y winds. The Yukon must not be
used in cloud and fog. The Yukon must not be used by pilots without sufficient
knowledge or experience.

If, after carefully reading this handbook, you still have questions, suggestions or
criticism regarding this product do not hesitate to contact your dealer or us. We will be
glad to help and advice.

MAC PARA wish you many pleasant flights with your

Yukon

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Operating limits:

The Yukon is light sport aircraft with an empty weight of less than 120 kg in the categor y
paraglider. The Yukon has been tested by certification laboratory European Para
Academy to EN-B category. The Yukon is certified for solo flight. The Yukon has been
load and shock-tested and passed with a load corresponding to 8G of the maximum
weight in flight 110 kg. Its flying tests have shown that the glid er remains stable and
controllable over a wide range of normal an d abnormal flight conditions. Nevertheless,
turbulence and gusting winds can le ad to a partial or complete collapse o f the canopy.
Therefore never fly in such conditions.

Any changes made to this paraglider invalidate the certificate of airworthiness.

OVERALL PLAN

Trailing edge

Leading edge

Brake handle

Main karabineer

Rapid links

Main lines

Risers

Main brake line

Brake line

Stabilizer line

Top surface

Bottom surface

Glider’s label on the
central main rib

Stabilizer

5

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION

Construction of the canopy:

The canopy of the YUKON consists of 46 cells over the wingspan. The wingtips are
slightly pulled down and this produces a kind of stabilizer. The Yukon is a second rib
diagonal-construction paraglider. Every second main rib is attached to the 4 or 5
suspension lines. Between these main suspension ribs, intermediate ribs are
suspended by diagonal segments. These segments do not lead to top surface of canopy
but are attached at 80% of rib's height. This construction ensures a smooth top surfac e
and precise airfoil reproduction. T he internal reinforcements maintain the precise form of
the canopy and provide stability. The cell open ings on the under-surface of the profile's
nose provide airflow into the glider. Stretch r esistant flares, integrated with diagonal rib s
at the suspension points, ensure an even d istribution of load throughout the canopy. A
stretch resistant Mylar strip on the top and bottom panels alongside the openings and
running the length of the trailing edge define s the wingspan, together with an optimiz ed
sail tension; this guarantees a high form stability. Large cross ports allow effective
airflow inside the canopy, providing good re-inflation without reducing the profile
accuracy..

The Yukon is mainly made of the proven Nylon fabrics P orcher Marine Skytex 36 E 68A,
Skytex 27 E71A and Skytex 32 E29A. Like any synthetic material, this can deter iorate
through excessive exposure to UV.

Rigging system:

The lines of the Yukon are made of proven strong and s tretch resistant Dynema and
Vectran lines. Brake lines are from Dynema material. The entire rigging system
comprises individual suspension lines looped and stitched at each end. The
Arami/Polyester main lines have strengths from 140 up to 230 kg. T he Vectran cascade
lines have strengths from 53 kg up to 122 kg. T he Dynema cascade lines and brake
lines have strengths from 60 kg up to 100 kg

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The suspension lines are comprised of “cascaded top lines” (attached to the under­surface) and “main lines”. Main lines lead loop of riser`s straps or to the “quick link”
(a Maillon which connects lines and risers). The “stabilizer lines” connect the upper
stabilizer lines on the outer suspension poi nts with the quick link. The”brake lines” are
not load carrying suspension lines. T hey lead from the trail ing edge of the canop y to the
main brake lines and run through the pulleys on the D-risers to the brake handles. A
mark on the main brake line indicates the position of the brake ha ndle. This adjustment,
on the one hand, allows sufficient brake t o be applied during extreme flying situations
and when landing, while on the other hand, this ensures that brakes are not
permanently applied to the canopy (especially when fully accelerated). This trimming
should not be altered. For differe ntiation purposes the A-lines are col oured red, the
brake lines are orange, all remaining lines are yellow. Also the main suspension loop,
on the bottom of the riser, is covered red. This is where the main karabiner should be
hooked in, which then in turn connects the risers to the harness.

The Yukon is equipped with 4 strap risers pe r side (A, B, C, D). The 3 A-main lines per
side are attached to the A-strap. The 3 B-main lines and the stabilizer li nes are attache d
to the B-strap. The 3 C-main lines to the C-strap. The 3 D-main lines to the D-strap. T he
main brake lines leads through the pulleys on the D-strap.

The line connections are made to riser`s strap loops. Second option: The line
connections are made to triangular Maillons (quick links) fitted with a rubber ”o- ring” in
the form of a ”figure eight” which prevents any slipping of the lines on the quick link.

See line plan for details

Speed system:

The Yukon is equipped with a stirrup operated speed-system, which returns
automatically to normal position when the stirrup is released. The serial risers of the
Yukon do not have a lockable trimmer.

The speed system affects the A-, B- and C-risers and changes the angle of attack. In
normal flight all risers have an overall length of 50 cm without quick links. When the
stirrup is pushed out the A-risers are shortened by up to a maximum of 16 cm, the B­risers by up to a max. of 14 cm, the C-risers by up to a ma x. of 7 cm, the D-risers reta in
their original length. These measurements influence the certification! An incorrectly fitted
speed system causes loss of certification!

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Fitting the speed-system:

Most modern harnesses have pulleys attached for spee d system fitting. In case not, it is
important to attach pulleys (sewn on tabs) in such a way that they allows the pilot to
maximize the power vector of his / her legs without ”pushing back” in the harness.

The Yukon speed system, including Brummel-hooks supplied, must be assembled as
per instructions.

The speed system cord is firmly attached (use bowline or other nonslip knot) to the foot
stirrup (webbing or alloy bar). T he other end of the cord is run through a pull ey on the
harness and then in an upward direction to be then firmly attached to the Brummel­hooks!

The length of the cord leading to the stirrup should be adjusted so that it is easy to put
your feet into the stirrup in flight but stil l short enough to allow full spe ed system travel.
(Use of 2 stirrups in a ladder fashion can enabl e you to reach the full range if your l egs
are not long enough.) Ensure both cords on the stirrup are of equal length, to avoid
putting a turn in the glider.

Test your speed system for the correct length of cord on the ground first (simulating
flying position), with your harness and risers, before flying with it! The full range is
reached when the 2 pulleys join together.

Before launch, attach the paraglider's risers to the harness with the main karabiners.
Then attach the ”Brummel-hook” on the end of each spee d system cord to the Brummel
hook on the end of the cord which runs through the 2 pulleys on the A risers. Ensur e
that the speed system is untangled and operates freely before fl ying!

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RISER

Risers's lenghts Yukon

A B C D

Trim-position

480 480 480 480

Accelerated

320 340 410 480

The lengths are measured from main attachment point to the lower edge of rapid links.

Color
marking

Loop for main
karabineer

Trimm postion Accelerated position

Brake handle

Change of the
an

g

le of attack

A B CD A B C D

Brakeline

p

ulle

y

Magnet
button

Pulley

A

ccelerator

Faster

Slower

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MATERIALS

Tissue

(PORCHER SPORT, FRANCE)

Top Sail - Leading Edge - SKYTEX 36 E68A - 100% nylon 6.6 , 33 Dtex, 36 g/m

2

Top Sail - Trailing Edge - SKYTEX 27 E71A - 100% nylon 6.6 , 22 Dtex, 27 g/m

2

Bottom SaiL- SKYTEX 27 E71A - 100% nylon 6.6 , 22 Dtex, 27 g/m

2

Main ribs, Diagonals - SKYTEX 32 HF E29A - 100% nylon 6.6 , 33/22 Dtex, 32 g/m

2

Ribs - SKYTEX SKYTEX 27 E71A - 100% nylon 6.6 , 22 Dtex, 27 g/m

2

Reinforcement Ribs – Plastic rods 1,6 mm

Lines

(EDELMAN+RIDDER, GERMANY)

Main lines C1, D1,D2,D3 - Aramid/ Polyester A-7343-140, Breaking Load 140 kg

Main lines A1, B1, C2,C3 - Aramid/ Polyester A-7343-190, Breaking Load 190 kg

Main lines A2,B2,A3,B3 - Aramid/ Polyester A-7343-230, Breaking Load 230 kg

Wing tip lines - Aramid/ Polyester A-6843-080, Breaking Load

80 kg

Brake lines - Dynema/Polyester A-7850-100, Breaking Load

100 kg

(ROSENBERGER TAUWERK, GERMANY)

Upper lines A,B - Liros, Dynema DC 100, Breaking Load

100 kg

Brake lines - Liros, Dynema DC 60, Breaking Load

60 kg

Brake lines - Liros, Dynema DC 100, Breaking Load

100 kg

(COUSIN TRESTEC, FRANCE)

Upper lines A,B,C - Vectran 0,9 mm, Breaking Load 122 kg

Upper lines C,D - Vectran 0,6 mm, Breaking Load 53 kg

Attachment straps

(STUHA, CZECH REPUBLIC)

STAP-POLYESTERBRIDLE 13 mm, Breaking Load 70 kg

Risers

(ROSENBERGER TAUWERK, GERMANY)

Dynema CR 1800, Breaking Load 1800 kg, Dynema CR 1000, Breaking Load 1000 kg

Thread

(AMANN SPONIT, CZECH REPUBLIC)

Lines-SYNTON 60, Main lines-SERABOND 60, Canopy-SYNTON 40, Riser-SYNTON 20

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Mountaineering Intermediate

Yukon Yukon Yukon

size 22 (S) 25 (M) 27 (L)
Zoom flat [%] 92 95,7 100

Area flat

[m

2

]

22,39 24,49 26,74

Area projected

[m

2

]

20,59 22,52 24,59
Span flat [m] 10,71 11,2 11,70
Aspect ratio flat - 5,12 5,12 5,12
Root cord [m] 2,56 2,68 2,8
Cells - 46 46 46
Weight [kg] 3,5 3,65 3,8
Weight range* [kg] 67-85 75-95 85-110
Min.speed [km/h] 23-25 23-25 23-25
Trim.speed [km/h] 36-38 36-38 36-38

Max. speed (accelerator) [km/h] 48-5 0 48-50 48-50
Glide ratio - 8,6 8,6 8,6
Min. Sink rate [m/s] 1,05 1,05 1,05

* Pilot + approx. 17 to 20kg of equipment (including wing)

HARNESS

The Yukon is certified with LTF GH type certified harnesses. Nearly all harnesses
available on the market are „GH“.

These “GH“harnesses are different to “GX“ harnesses, which have a lower attachment
point for the main karabiners and effective cross bracing. The Yukon was not tested with
harnesses with an effective cross bracing system.

Any certified harness with a hang point at about chest height may be used with the
Yukon (37-50cm over seat plate). The distance between left and rig ht main karabiners
should be between 45 and 60cm, depe nding on the size of the pilot and th e type of the
harness. Please note: the hang point position changes the position of the brakes re lative
to the pilot's body.

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CHECKS ON THE NEW PARAGLIDER

Before delivery, as well as during production, each paraglider goes through a strict
visual inspection. Additionally we recommend that you to check your new glider in
accordance with the following points. We recommend that you make this check after
flying extreme manoeuvres or after tree landings or similar.

• Inspection of the canopy for tears or damage, especially the seams which join the
ribs to the upper and lower surfaces, but also the area of the attachment tapes and
brake-line connections.

• Inspection of the lines for damage to the stitc hes. T he li ne le ngths m ust be checked
after 50 hours flying time and whenever the flight behaviour of the glider changes.

• Inspection of attachment tapes for damage to the stitches. It is also important to
check the attachment tapes and brake-lines for tangles.

• Inspection of the risers for faultless condition. Rapid links must be secured.

With even slight damage the glider loses its airworthiness

ADJUSTING BRAKE LINES

The brake lines lead from the trailing edge of the canopy to the main brake lines which
then run through pulleys on the D-risers to th e brak e han dles. A mark on t h e mai n brake
line indicates the position of the brake handle.

The glider is delivered with a standard set-up and its speed can reach 36 - 38 km/h
depending on the weight of th e pilot. The brake-lin es should always be adjusted so that
the first brake-lines just come under tensi on when the brake handles have bee n pulled
5 - 10 cm. The test results relate to this brake-line adjustment. This adjustment, on the
one hand, allows sufficient brake to be applied during extreme flying situations and
when landing, while on the other hand, it ensures that the canopy is not permanently
braked (especially when fully accelerated). T his trim should not be altered. In extreme
situations any other settings may lead to the glider reacting differently to versions which
have been tested.

NOTE!! If in doubt about the brake-line adjustment, it is preferable to leave them too
long, as any necessary shortening can easily be achieve d by wrapping them roun d your
hand.

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FLYING THE YUKON

The following information must not under any circumstances be taken as a
manual for practising paragliding. We would like to advise you of the Yukon's
features and important information for your flying and security.

Preparing for take off:

As for any aircraft a thorough pre-flight check must be made prior to each flight on the
Yukon!

Before every launch check lines, risers and canopy for damage! Do not launch with
even the slightest damage!

Also check the maillons connecting the lines and the risers. They have to be closed
tight.

Put on the harness with maximum care and check the handle of the safety system and
that all the flaps of the outer container are fastened securely and correctly. The main
karabiner must also be checked carefully. Replace it if any damage is visible, or
generally after 300 flying hour s. Finally connect the r isers to your h arness with the m ain
karabiners.

Check carefully that they are properly closed.

Attention! Never fly with an open main karabiner! Do not take off if you find any
damage on your equipment!

Having unpacked and laid out the paraglider in a slight horseshoe pattern the follo wing
checks must be made

Checklist:

Preparing the wing:

• canopy without any damage

• risers without damage

• maillons (quick links) closed tight

• stitching of the main lines near the risers are o.k.

• all main lines run free from the riser to the canopy, brake lines are free

Putting on the harness:

• rescue handle and deployment pins secure

• buckles (leg- ,front riser) closed

• main karabiners

Before takeoff:

• speed-system mounted and connected properly

• risers not twisted

• brake handle in hands, brake lines free

• pilot's position relative to the wing (centred: all lines same tensi on)

• wind direction

• obstacles on the ground

• free airspace

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When laying out the glider, the wind direction should be observed. The canopy should
be deployed into the wind so both halves of it are loaded symmetrically. The paraglider
should be arranged in a semicircle against t he wind. This ensures that the A-lines in the
centre section of the canopy will tension before the ones at the wing tips. Thus the
canopy inflates evenly and an easy la unch in the desired direction is guaranteed.

All lines and risers should be carefully untangled an d arranged in a way that they do not
catch on anything.

It is equally important to untangle the brake lines so that they are clear and can not
catch on any thing during launch. T he brake lines should run freely through the pulleys
to the trailing edge of the canopy.

Make sure the risers are not twisted; this can prevent the brake lines from running freel y
through their pulleys.

It is often impossible to untangle lines during flight.
It is important that no lines are looped around the canopy. Also called a “line-over”, this

may have disastrous consequences during take off. Finally connect the risers with your
harness by using the main karabiners. Check carefully that they are closed properly.

Launch:

The Yukon is very easy to la unch. This is possible in almost all wind conditions e xcept
strong headwinds. Before take off recheck the canopy, the direction of the wind and the
air space around you! When the pilot is r eady to take off he/she holds all A-risers and
the brake handles in each hand. To facilitat e differentiation between the risers, the A­lines, including the sleeves on the A-risers, are coloured red. Before take-off, place
yourself centrally at the gliders axis. Let the B-, C- and D-ris ers fall into the crook of your
arm and hold the A risers with arms outstretched behind you. Pull up the canopy
dynamically using the A-risers. (The stronger the headwind the less run-up you need to
pull the canopy up). After the initial effort of inflation, keep applying forward pressure on
the A-risers (pushing them for ward, not pulling down) until the pre ssure on the A
risers eases. The canopy should now be directl y over the pilot's head. As soon as the
glider is above you, stop pulling on the A-risers. A good progressive run ensures your
Yukon will inflate and come up equall y and quickly. Should the canopy surge forward,
control it by braking gently. Now do a visual check upwards, to ensure the canopy is
completely open (otherwise, abort the take-off). Only then is the final decision to
continue the launch taken! If anything is not completely safe the launch should be
aborted!

Now accelerate continuously until you lift off. It is easier to take-off in a light headwind if
after reaching minimum flying speed you apply the brakes slightly. After the take-off,
gently release the brakes again.

The paraglider should be braked gently to stabilize the glider and possibly correct for
drift. Moving the pilot's body to the centre of the glider is the best method of correction, if
there is sufficient room.

WARNING!! Do not use the forward launch in very strong winds. Make s ure you don't
pull the risers too much towards yourself or downwards as this can result in a frontal
collapse, or in an asymmetric take-off.

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The Yukon is easy to reverse launch. When doing a rev erse launch or when launching
in strong winds the paraglider can possibl y surge forward more quickly or lift off sooner
than desired. To avoid this, walk uphill following the canopy during inflation. As this
launch technique can be difficult and turning the wrong way can res ult in the pilot taking
off with twisted risers. It is recommended to practice the reverse launch on a training hill
or slight slope first. When deflating the canopy in strong winds, or abortin g a launch, use
the C- or D- risers, not the brakes. Using the brakes in strong wind will cause more lift,
lifting the pilot up and dragging him/her much further back.

If you let the brake handles go out of your hands during take-off, take care that the
brake line is not twisted around the brake pulley

Flight:

The glider is delivered with a standard set-up and its speed can reach 36 - 38 km/h
depending on the weight of the pilot. Always fly with sufficient clearance from the terrain.
The Yukon glides best with open br akes, descends best with lightly applied brakes. In
turbulence fly with brakes lightly applied (10-15 cm) to avoid canopy collapse. If the
canopy pendulums forward, this should be corrected by prompt braking. A pendulum
movement of the canopy backwards is corrected by loosening the brak es in good time.

In a calm air the Yukon can reach its minimum spe ed (depending on the wing loading)
by application of 60cm up to 65cm of the brake range.

Accelerated Flight:

When flying with the speed system applied the angle of attack is lower and the canop y
can collapse more easily than in normal (trim) flight. The faster the canop y is flown the
more dynamic the collapses and stalls will be and the more skill will be required for
quick recoveries. Therefore do not use speed system in turbulent conditions, close to
the ground or near other airspace users. Always fly with sufficient clearance from the
terrain and always keep the brake handles in your hands!

To use the speed system, simply place yo ur feet on the stirrup and push forward in a
horizontal plane. If a loss of back pressure of the stirrup o n your l egs is noticed, th is is a
warning that the canopy is probably about to collapse. Rel ease the stirrup and thus the
speed system immediately. With this feeling you may actually prevent most collapses
from happening while using the speed system. If a collapse should still occur, release
the speed system immediately and correct the collapse as described below.

Attention: Do not apply brakes when fully accelerated! Braking increases lift near the
trailing edge. The main lift point moves backwards. Due to this the wing can loose
stability for a short time.

Steering - turns:

The Yukon is a very responsive paraglider and reacts very directly and instantly to any
steering input. Weight shift input quickens turns and ensures minimal height loss. Any
weight shift has a greater effect the more loosely the chest-strap is fastened.
A combined technique of weight shift and pulling on the inside brake line is the most
efficient turning method, whereby the radius of the turn is determined by the amount of

15

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inside brake pulled and weight shift. A stalling wing tip announces itself by a gentle
surge backwards of the wingtip. If this occurs you will need to release the brakes
immediately.

In case it is impossible to control the Yukon with the brake lines the D-risers may be
used to steer and land the canopy. Attention! Pulling brake too fast or too hard can
result in the canopy entering a negative spin.

Active Flying (Thermaling and Soaring):

In turbulent conditions the glider should be flown actively with brakes lightly applied to
avoid canopy collapse. This im proves stability by increasing the angle of attack of the
canopy. The canopy should not rock back or surge forward much but should remain
above the pilot. In turbulent flight, if the canopy pendulums forward, this should be
corrected by prompt braking. A pendulum movement of the canopy backwards is
corrected by releasing the brakes in good time. This is part of basic active flying.

Approach and Landing:

To avoid excessively demanding situ ations on the appr oach to landing, it is importa nt to
initiate the process at an adequate altitude. This leaves you eno ugh time to observe and
appropriately deal with wind direction and any other aircraft in your vicinity.

The Yukon is easy to land. The final leg of the landing approach must be into the wind.
During this final glide the paraglider should be decelerate d slowly and at approximately
one meter above the ground, accor ding to conditions, the pilot should flare the canopy.
The glider may climb again, gaining height, if too much brake is used too early. Strong
wind landings require correspondingly less brake. Do not apply full brake before the pilot
is safely on the ground. The final glide during the landing approach should be straight
and not marked by steep or alternating turns as these can result in a dangerous
pendulum effect near the ground.

Attention! Do not allow the canopy to fall onto the leading edge with energ y. This can
destroy the material and affects the life of the ribs at the leading edge!

TOWING

The Yukon is certified for towing. The Yukon has no out of the ordinary towing
characteristics, although a relatively low angle of attack and thus lo w tow tensi on shoul d
be maintained during launch and the initial part of the tow. The Yukon has no
tendencies towards deep stall/parachuting. Therefore we allow tow- launched flights
with a similar technique to that described above. There is sufficient margin to counter­steer the glider in a normal towing situation. Make sure you use proper equipment,
experienced personnel and all relevant safety precautions for towing. We
recommending the use of a winching adapter: this should be mounted on the upper e nd
of the main karabiner.

WARNING!! Please always ensure that the brake lines are adjusted to the lengths
recommended here. Setting them shorter could lead to a tendenc y to stall during towed
flight. Apart from this, there are no special procedures.

16

MOTORISED FLIGHT

Yukon is certified for powered flying.

Note!! Although, motorized flight can be a great success due to the gliders very easy take-off
characteristics, stability and good handling, always use a certified combination of engine - harness
and glider. If in doubt check with your federation. Contact the manufacturer or importer for the
current legality of motorized flight.

WARNING!! The Yukon is not suitable for jumps from aircraft.
WARNING!! The Yukon is not designed to be used for aerobatics.

EXTREME FLYING MANOEUVRES

This section describes flying conditions whic h can be deliberatel y induced, or which can
develop unintentionally due to turbulence or pilot error. Any pilot who flies through
turbulence is sure to be faced with these special flight co nditions at some point. So take
a good look at these flight manoeuvres or prepare for them by SIV (safet y training over
water). Mastering these flying conditions sig nificantly improves your active flight safet y.
Sufficient height, as well as the carrying of a reserve parachute, is imperative.

WARNING!! All the critical flight conditions d escribed here require thorough knowledg e;
otherwise carrying them out may be very dangerous. Sufficient height above the gro und
is imperative. Bear in mind that all disturban ces of th e cano py can incr eas e the s ink r ate
by 2 - 10 m/sec, depending on the degree of disturbance. Carrying out these
manoeuvres wrongly may lead to a crash.

Remember this is a glider with unspectacular reactions to disturbances in the air.
Whenever in doubt, raise the brakes and l et the glider fly. The glider has a high i nternal
pressure, resistance to tucking and very high degree of passive safety. It is
recommended that at this stage you alrea dy practise an active flying style. The ke y to
active piloting is keeping the glider above your head at all times. We recommend in
principle that you hold the brak e handle in your hand whenev er possible, or fly with your
hands through the brake handles, to allow you to react immediately to any possible
disturbances. .
WARNING!! If you fly with your ha nds through the brake handles, you may lose valuable
time in activating the rescue system.

Asymmetric collapse:

A negative angle of attack can cause all or part of the leading-edge of the Yukon to
collapse (e.g. in turbulent air). Basically the Yukon will re-open spontaneously from
closures of up to 70% with a change of direction of up to 90°. The time this takes, and
the associated height loss, can however be noticeably re duced by appropr iate action by
the pilot. Apply opposite br ake on the inflat ed side, the outside of the curv e, to stop the
turning movement of the canopy. This should be accompanied by appropriate weight­shift. If you react immediately, 30% brake on the open side should suffice to hold the
canopy on a straight course. In the event of a big collapse, this braking should be
applied very carefully to avoid stalling the remaini ng inflated wing. The pilot's correction
for direction can be aided by a pumpin g out the deflatio n; a slow, long pumping action of
the brake of the deflated side of the wing helps the cano py to re-inflate. If the pilot does
not correct, the Yukon usually self-recovers. However, if it does not self recover and the
pilot does not correct the canopy can enter a stable spiral dive.

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“Cravat” / Line-over:

In the event of some lines becoming tangled during flight (caused by whatever), the
following action is recommended:

The pilot stabilizes the glider b y gently appl ying the brakes. Ple ase be a ware that in this
condition the brake pressure can be higher and the brake travel shorter.

Without pilot input a line-over will result in a stable spiral dive.
Here are the various options to untangle a line-over:

- pumping the collapsed side.

- pulling the stabilizer line or lines causing the problem.

- should both measures fail, it may be possible to unta ngle the line-over by inducing a

full stall. This manoeuvre, however, should only be carried out b y advanced pilots with
experience in extreme flight situations and with sufficient altitude available.

Attention! If these manoeuvres fail or if in any doubt, the pilot shoul d instantly use their
emergency parachute system.

Front Tuck:

A front tuck can be induced by strongly pulling the A-risers or by sudden, heavy
turbulence. The entire leading edge spontaneously collapses. Gentle braking on both
sides will reduce the lateral pendulum motions and simultaneously accelerate re­inflation. The Yukon generally self recovers from an initiated front tuck.

When having a very large front tuck, a frontal rosette can happen (the wingtips move
forwards: shaping a horseshoe). Gentle braking can avoid this deformation.

A quick recognition of the situation and a quick reaction by braking on both sides as
long as the collapsed wing is beh ind the pilot helps the recovery and limit s the altitude
loss.

Parachutal stall (deep stall):

In a parachutal stall the paraglider has no forward momentum combined with a high
descent rate. A parachutal stall can be caused by, among other reas ons, a too slow exit
from a B-line stall or severe turbulence. Porous can opies (UV influ ence) or canopies out
of trim (stretched or shrunken lines) are muc h mor e susc eptible to a parac hutal stall a nd
therefore should not be flown. These are some of the reasons regular checks should be
carried out on your glider.

A wet canopy or temperatures below zero centigrade (0°C) may also cause a stable
parachutal stall. The Yukon will usually spontaneously recover from a parachutal stall
within 2-3 seconds. If the canopy remains in a parac hutal stall, it is sufficient to gently
push both A risers forward or to push the accelerator.

Attention! If brakes are applied while in a parachutal stall, the glider may sudd enly enter
a full stall!

If a parachutal stall occurs on landing approach, the pilot should prepare for a hard
landing and make a parachute roll land ing. In close proximity to the ground, due to the
forward surging pendulum effect, a recovery may be more dangerous than a hard
landing in parachutal stall.

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Full-stall:

To induce a full stall, apply ful l brake on both sides. The glid er slows down steadil y until
it stalls completely. The canopy suddenly surges backwards a long way. In spite of this
uncomfortable reaction of the canopy, both brake lines must be consequently held do wn
with all your strength until the canopy is stabi lized ( directl y o verhe ad). T his usua lly takes
3-6 seconds. The Yukon generally flies bac kwards during a full stall but doesn't al ways
form a front rosette. A frontal rosette can be formed by entering the full stall slowly.
When entering (braking) fast, the canop y will not always form the desired front rosette .
Attention! Always apply both brakes evenly!

To recover from a full stall, Smoothly release both brakes simultaneousl y until 90% of
leading edge reopens, then release brakes rapi dly. The glider ends the full stall on its
own without surging forward.

WARNING!! If the brakes are rele ased rapidly and asymme trically, the glider ma y surge
almost 90° and suffer an extensive asymmetric collapse.

The danger of overcorrecting and overreacting exists during all extreme flight
manoeuvres. Thus, any corrective action must be gentle and steady and done with feel!

Spin (or negative spin):

Pulling brake on one side too fast or too hard can result in a negative spin. During a spin
the canopy turns relatively fast around the centre section of the canopy while the inner
wing flies backwards (hence the term negative).

There are two usual reasons for an unintentional spin:

• One brake line is being pulled down too far and too fast (e.g. when inducing a spiral
dive)

• When flying at low speed one side is being br aked too hard (e.g. when thermaling)

To recover from an unintentional spin, the pulle d down brake line should be immediately
released as soon as a spin is suspected. The canopy will accelerate and return to its
normal straight and stable flying position, without losing too much height. If the spin is
allowed to develop for some time, the glider surges a long way for ward on one side and
a dynamic asymmetric collapse or a line-over can occur. Gently apply the brakes to
avoid side or central collapse of the c anopy and the possibility of a cravat (one of the
tips becoming entangled in the lines). See part collapses on page 15.

WARNING!! If you are LOW and are in an unintentional spin, or if the canopy is c aught
in a cravat USE YOUR RESERVE.

Wingover:

To induce a wingover the pilot flies consecutive alternating turns to gradually steepen
the angle of bank. During wingovers with a high bank angle, the outsid e wing begins to
unload. Further increase of the angle of bank must be avoided, because any poss ible
resulting collapse may be quite dynamic!

WARNING! Full-stall, spin and wingover (over 90 degree angle of bank) are
prohibited aerobatic manoeuvres and may not be performed during normal flying.

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Incorrect recovery procedures or overreacting of the pilot may have dangerous
consequences! Attention! The Yukon is not designed to be used for aerobatics.

Alternative (emergency) steering:

If for some reason it becomes impossible to control the Yukon with the brake lines
the D-risers may be used to steer and land the canopy. Attention! Of course the range
is much shorter (10-15 cm) then with the brakes. It is also possible to control the
direction of the flight by pulling on a stabilizer line or by weight-shifting.

RAPID DESCENTS

Spiral dive:

A spiral dive is the fastest way to lose altitude, however, the very hi gh G-forces make it
difficult to sustain a spiral dive for long and it can place high loads on the pilot and
glider. By tensing ones abdominal muscl es and a higher body tensio n you can to some
extent resist the high G-forces. Don't forget proper breathing! As soon as any, even
slight, light dizziness or impaired vision is noticed the spiral should be exited
immediately.

The Yukon has a very effective spiral dive. This al lo ws rapid descent without stalling. T o
enter a spiral dive the pilot should weight-shift on one si de while slo wly pu lling the br ake
gradually on the same side as weight-shifting. During a spir al div e the a ngl e of ba nk can
be controlled by increasing or reducin g the amount of inside brake. When spiral diving
the Yukon it is recommended that the outside brake is lightly applied. This helps
stabilize the wing and enables an easi er and safer exit from the spiral. To exit, release
the inside brake slowly. The Yukon di d not show a tendenc y to remain in a stable spiral
during testing. At high sink speeds or if the pilot keeps his weight on the inside, the wing
can stay in a continued deep spiral and has to be actively exited. This is done by weight
shifting to the outside and gentler braking of the outside wing.

WARNING!! Nearly all gliders will have a tend ency to stay in the spiral if the sink-rate
exceeds around 15-m/s, depending on weight -shifting, wing loading and G-force. In fact
most gliders need a counter-input to end a turn.

Attention! Due to energy retention, the glider will climb a lot after a deep spiral-dive
release. If you apply inner brake and decelerate the glider for two or three turns, big
pendulum effects can be avoided.

WARNING!! Practise spiralling with caution and low er sink-rates to get a feel for
the gliders behaviour. A pilot who is dehydrated or not accustomed to spiralling
can lose consciousness in a steep spiral dive!

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Big ears:

When in big-ears, the horizontal speed is higher than the sink rate, unlike a spiral dive
or a B-line stall. This rapid descent techni que is used to quickly and horizontally exit a
dangerous area in the desired direction. In order to collapse the outside wing, pull the
outside A-lines.

When the pilot holds the outermost A main line on both sides an d pulls them down, the
Yukon easily tucks the outside wings and enters a stable descent mode. The pilot keeps
hold of the brake handles along with the outermost A main lines in his hands. By braking
on one side and weight-shifting, the canopy remains steerable.

In order to increase the sink rate as well as the h orizontal s pee d, this m anoeuvr e sh ould
be done together with use of the speed system. Apply t he speed system after big ears
are induced (step into the speed-bar before you grab the outermost A lines). Big-ears
substantially reduces the risk of canopy stability problems in turbulent air. To exit big­ears release the A lines. The canopy does slo wly self-recover. If not, or to quicken the
recovery, the pilot can gently apply brakes to the glider.

WARNING! Never do big-ears in spirals, as this may drastically reduce the number of
lines taking the already high loads, causing structural failure.

Attention! All rapid descent techniques should first be practised in calm air and with
sufficient height so the pilot can use them in emergency situations! By far the best
technique is to fly correctly and safely, so you never have to descend rapidly!

B-line stalls:

To induce a B-line stall symmetrically pu ll down slo wly on both B-risers, u ntil the ca nopy
folds (parallel to its long axis). The airflo w over the top surface is almost fully detached
and the canopy enters a vertical descent flight mode without forward movement. Further
pulling of the B-risers reduces the surface area more and increases the sink rate.
(Up to 8 m/s) Be careful, pulling too far or too rapidly ma y cause a frontal horseshoe to
form. To exit from this flight mode release the B-risers at first rapidly but then gently (1
sec). The canopy surges forward re-attaching the airflow over the top surface and
resumes normal flight. When the B-risers are released, the brakes should not be
activated. This will give the canopy the chance to gain s peed and resume normal flight.
On exit from a B-line stall on no account just release the B-risers, as this can cause
overloading. If canopy does not recover apply both brakes gentl y to recover or pull the
A-risers, until the canopy regains forward speed.

Summary:

For all extreme manoeuvres and rapid descents please note:

• first practise manoeuvres with an instructor during safety training!

• before inducing any manoeuvre the pilot must check that there are no other

airspace users below him!

• during the manoeuvre the pilot must have the canopy within his view!

21

LOOKING AFTER YOUR PARAGLIDER

Looking after your canopy correctly will prolong the life of your paraglider.

Deterioration: a few tips:

• The canopy is mainly made of NYLON, cloth which, like any synthetic material,
deteriorates through excessive exposure to UV. Hence, it is recomme nded that yo u
reduce UV exposure to a minimum by keeping the paraglider packed away when
not in use. Even when packed in the bag do not leave it in the sun.

• Keep the canopy and lines clean as dirt may penetrate into the fibre and damage
the lines or the cloth.

• Ensure that the lines are not folded tightly. It's extremely important to avoid any
sharp bending of the lines, especially the main lines. Pay careful attention to the
lines to avoid damaging them. Any over stretching of lines apart from the strain
imposed during normal flight, should be av oided as over stretching is irreversible.

• Be careful, not to allow snow, sand or stones to enter inside the canopy's cells: the
weight can change the angle of attack, or even stall the glider; additionally the
sharp edges can destroy the cloth!

• Check line lengths after tree or water landings. They can stretch or shrink lines.

• Never drag the wing over rough ground! This will damage the cloth on the wear

points. When preparing the wing on a tak eoff with rough ground, don't pull the wing
over it (i.e. by pulling the brakes). Please try to pack the wing on soft ground.

• Uncontrolled strong wind takeoffs or landing s can result in the leading edge of the
canopy hitting the ground at high speed which may cause rips in the profile and
damage the rib material.

• Clean the paraglider with fresh water after contact with salt water. Salt water crystal
can reduce line strength, even after rinsing in fresh water. Replace lines
immediately after contact with salt water. Also check canopy material after water
landings, as waves can place uneven forc es and cause cloth to distort in specific
areas. Always remove gliders from the water by holding only the trailing edge.

• Prevent lines from catching on anything as they may be ove r stretched. Do not step
onto the lines. Although the lines were tested with a bending test they can be
damaged if stepped on whilst on a hard surface, or if they come into contact with
sharp objects.

• Do not always fold the canopy symmetrically to the centre cell as this can cause
constant stress on the centre cell (centre cell always to the outside).

• Clean the paraglider with water and a soft sponge. Do not use any chemicals or
spirits for cleaning, as these can permanently damage the cloth

Storage:

• Store the paraglider in a dry space at ambient temperature away from chemicals
and UV light.

• Never pack or store the glider wet. This shortens the life of the cloth Always dry
glider thoroughly before any packing or storage.

• During transport it has to be considered, that some materials of the paraglider are
temperature sensitive. Avoid subjecting your wing to high temperatures
(e.g. the luggage space of a parked car in the sun)!
When sending your wing as a parcel, take extra care with packing.

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Repairs and checks:

• Tears in the canopy must be professionally sewn. Adhesive patches are only
adequate for very minor damage.

• Repairs should only be carried out by the manufacturer, distributor or authorized
workshops. Only original spare parts may be used!

• The lines m ust be checked after every 50 hours flying time and whenev er the flight
behaviour changes

• Any changes to the canopy lines or risers, except those approved by the
manufacturer, will void the certificate of airworthiness.

• The Yukon must be checked as a minimum, after two years or after 100 flying
hours by the manufacturer or authorized workshops.

Disposal:

• The synthetic materials used in a paraglider need professional disposal. Please
send disused canopies back to us: we will dismantle and dispose of it.

In Conclusion:

The Yukon is a modern paraglider. You will enjoy many safe years of flying with your
Yukon if you look after it correctly and adopt a mature and responsible approach to the
demands and dangers flying can pose.

It must be clearly understood that all air spor ts are potentially dangerous and that your
safety is ultimately dependent upon you. We strongly urge you to fly safely. This
includes your choice of flying conditions as well as safety margins during flying
manoeuvres. We recommend once more that you only fly with a certified harness,
reserve parachute, and helmet. Also the certification placard must be present on the
glider. Every pilot should be suitably qualified, have a valid license and 3rd party
insurance.

The Yukon is delivered with a stuff-sack, Velcro compression strap, MAC PARA
backpack, repair kit and user manual.

TREATING NATURE WITH RESPECT

Finally the call to practise our sport with respect for nature and wildlife! Don't walk
outside marked routes, don't leave any waste, don't make needless noise and respect
the sensitive biological balance in the mountain eco system: especially in the takeoff
area!

LINE PLANS

Line descriptions:

The following printed line plans show the line configurations.

23

LINE PLAN YUKON

24

MANUAL FOR PARAGLIDER CHECK

Check-intervals

All paragliders used in flight must be checked at least every 24 months. For paragliders
used by paragliding schools the period is 12 months.

Personnel authorised to carry out checks

A valid flying license and training course by National association are the basis for
permission to carry out paraglider checks

Identification of glider

An identity sticker with details of certification and serial number is attached to the glider.

Components of the check

Porosity

The porosity should be checked with a porosity meter (JDC). Compare the resultant
data with the producer's manual.

Porosity measures should be taken on at least three point s of both the top and bottom
surface. The first point should be placed 20-30 cm from leading edge in the middle of
canopy. Second and third points are placed left and right from first measure point at
25% of the span. One additional measurement should be made on the top surface of
the wing tip.

The identified time should be higher than 30 second (JDC). In the event of the result
being less than 30 seconds, the result of the check is a fail.

Overall strength check

The check of canopy strength should be made with a Bettsometer (B.M.A.A
approved Patent No. GB 2270768 Clive Betts Sales). On the top and bottom
surfaces make small holes with a needle at the Aline attachment points. The
exact verification should be made in accordance with the Bettsometer user
manual.

Line strength check

Line strengths should be as specified in accordance with the certification requirements.
One main line should be taken from each array and have its strength checked with a
tension-meter.

Required strengths should be higher than:

• A + B main lines x measured value > 8 x maximum take-off weight and higher
then 800 kg for the A + B arrays.

• C + D mean lines x measured value > 6 x maximum take-off weight and higher
then 600 kg for the A + B arrays.

Replacements for damaged lines must be with ne w original lines. Lin e lengt hs are taken
from the lines data page.

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Line length measurement

Lines should be separated and each line measured under a tension of 5 kg.
Measurement is made from the line karabiner to the canopy accordin g to the method of
certification. Rib numbering begins in the middle of canopy and leads to the wing tip.

Measured full lengths should be documente d in the ins pection rec ord and are compared
with certified full line lenghts protocol. Len gths should not differ by more than 20 mm.
The opposite sides should be checked for symmetry.

Canopy line-attachment points check

Attachment points should be checked for damage and stretching. Defects, loops and
flares should be repaired.

Canopy fabric check

Ribs, diagonal ribs, top and bottom surface should be checked. Any damage to sewing
or tears to the fabric, which could influence flying characteristics must be repaired.

Lines

All lines should be checked for tears, breaks any damage to the sheath or signs of wear.
Special attention should be paid to the se wing of the li ne loops. Dama ged lines must be
replaced.

The results should be documented in the inspection record.

Connector check

All line carabineers, trimmers (if used), speed systems and pulleys shoul d be inspected
for visible damage. Open or improperly secured connectors should be secured in
accordance with the producers recommendations.

Risers

Both risers should be checked for tears, signs of wear or any damage and measured
with a pull of 5 daN strength. Measured dat a should be documented in the inspection
record. The difference must not be higher then 5 mm when compared to specified
lengths.

Final check

The glider sticker and check sticker must be inspected for readability and correctness.
The check must be documented with date, signature and stamp on the canopy and in
the user manual.

26

CHECKS

Name Company Date Signature & Stamp

27

TEST FLIGHT CERTIFICATE

Paraglider type:

YUKON –

Serial number: ________________________________

Test flown on: ________________________________
by

MAC PARA TECHNOLOGY

________________________________

Confirmation by dealer: ________________________________

TECHNICAL DATA

Mountaineering Intermediate

Yukon Yukon Yukon

size 22 (S) 25 (M) 27 (L)
Zoom flat [%] 92 95,7 100

Area flat

[m

2

]

22,39 24,49 26,74

Area projected

[m

2

]

20,59 22,52 24,59
Span flat [m] 10,71 11,2 11,70
Aspect ratio flat - 5,12 5,12 5,12
Root cord [m] 2,56 2,68 2,8
Cells - 46 46 46
Weight [kg] 3,5 3,65 3,8
Weight range* [kg] 67-85 75-95 85-110
Min.speed [km/h] 23-25 23-25 23-25
Trim.speed [km/h] 36-38 36-38 36-38

Max. speed (accelerator) [km/h] 48-50 48-50 48-50
Glide ratio - 8,6 8,6 8,6
Min. Sink rate [m/s] 1,05 1,05 1,05

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