The South African Landing Championships
The South African Landing Championships are held on an annual basis.
A spot landing - pilot Hans Schwebel
This event comprises four land ings in different configurations. Penalties are applied based on the distance from a zero area which is 2m deep. Penalties for landing short are higher than landing past the zero line. Additional penalties will be added for abnormal landings and other infringements. A full list of the penalties is listed in the official rules.
After the four landings the South African Landing Champion is declared. Provincial colours are also be awarded to top finishers. This is an opportunity for competitors to increase their skills. A forced landing will be simple after practicing for this event.
The four landings comprise the following:
A spot landing box
- A Normal Landing
A free style landing where the use of power, spoilers, flaps or sideslip is at the discretion of the pilot.
- A Forced Landing
On downwind, abeam the zero line, at 1000 to 1200 ft AGL the engine is throttled back to idle power. Power shall not be used thereafter. Flaps, spoilers and sideslip may be used at the discretion of the pilot.
- A Forced Landing without Flaps
On downwind, abeam the zero line, at 1000 to 1200 ft AGL flying with flaps or spoilers fully retracted, the engine is throttled back to idle power. Power, spoilers and flaps shall not be used thereafter. Sideslip may be used at the discretion of the pilot.
- A Normal Landing over an Obstacle
The competitor will make a landing after passing a marked obstacle 2 meters high, placed 50 meters before the touchdown line. Use of power, spoilers, flaps or sideslip is at the discretion of the pilot. Approaches in connection with the obstacle landing, where the wheels are lower than the obstacle before passing over it, are not permitted (creeping).
See the rules for the detailed requirements and penalties.