It seems too obvious to say, but damage or improper [[Assembly]] will render the glider unsafe and unairworthy. Likewise, other equipment to be used during launch should also be inspected before flight operations commence. An unacceptable number of **entirely preventable** accidents occur each year due to inadequate preflight inspection procedures, so learning to perform this task correctly, **every time**, is critical to safe flight, regardless of how the equipment was stored. ### Glider **ALWAYS** use the manufacturer's preflight inspection procedures. These can be found in the GFM/POH, may located on a cockpit placard, or be copied and printed as a separate checklist by the owner/operator. Some manufacturers have separate "daily inspection" and "preflight inspection" checklists, while some manufacturers use the terms interchangeably. Ensure that the correct sequence of checklists is followed for the glider and the type of operation being conducted. ![[ASG 32 Mi preflight.png]] ### Launch Equipment The glider pilot should also verify that the correct [[Launch Equipment]] will be used, and is in an acceptable condition. The "correct" launch equipment is specific to the type of glider, and the method of launching. For aerotow launches, this will typically include verifying the correct [[Launch Equipment#Tow Rope]], [[Launch Equipment#Safety Links/Weak Links]] (if applicable), and [[Launch Equipment#Tow Rings]] are used, and in an acceptable condition for operation. ### Additional Resources [<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7m5zyR1K5wQ?si=58FPlHjXC3sky30x" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>] [<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s6QcOQ3olbE?si=cjkIW1bbcYaeF_QA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>] ### References - FAA, *Glider Flying Handbook* - FAA, *Practical Test Standards for Glider Category*