Hang Gliding Ridge Lift at Hammondsport, NY

Hang Gliding ridge lift flying explained at Hammondsport, NY. The most challenging landing options I have ever flown. The primary landing behind the church is narrow and short, with cross winds. Add the gust factor through the valley. TOP landings are challenging, depending of the height you have, with risks of rotor and low altitude turns on final. I produced this video to explain how ridge lift works and an overview of the Hammondsport, NY site. Educate and highlight the risk factors.

[@lessainsbury8508]

Judging from what was happening with the turbulence down lower I think you made the right choice. The church option appeared a bit sketchy

[@aquaman1]

Hi Les. Do you fly Hammondsport? If yes, what's your standard approach there?

[@lessainsbury8508]

@@aquaman1 No I have not landed there. I flew hang gliders for 37 years before switching to sailplanes.. I could comment on what I would have done, but unless you are actually there , have flown the site ,and were experiencing what you were in this video , it is only a best guess. It is great that you showed the whole landing sequence. It brings back some not so great memories of a hell hole LZ that we regularly had to use.

[@aquaman1]

Have you tried the virtual reality software Thomas Low created called The Freeflight Experience? You can hang glide this site and others.

[@lessainsbury8508]

@@aquaman1 I did happen to see an example of this simulation for Fort Funston. It was absolutely amazing . As much as I would look into this further , I still have not purchased my "Just Soaring Sim Port Flight simulator" that I promised myself as a retirement present . ( to keep my soaring skills sharp in the winter ) So many cool toys out there and not enough time to use them. Have yourself a great hang gliding season . Les

[@thefishnmusician9667]

Impressive. Tight landing. Good to see you can make smart decisions on the landing. No room for errors in judgement

[@aquaman1]

Thefishingmusician, Good one. So many variables when flying without power. No flaps or engine options. We have only one shot at landing. Wind shifts, gusts, wind gradient, and all the terrain factors. Additionally, Mark was coming in for a landing at the same time. I was trying to beat him to the ground because he's more experienced with a higher performance glider

[@cdnskydog]

Brings back many memories Greg. Glad that You were able to fly H Port. I had expected to see Your Moyes glider.

[@aquaman1]

Didn't want to break it. Quite rightfully with that crazy landing options at Hammondsport. I'm still trying to find Dynamic wheels or skids for the Gecko