Hancock
From Hang Gliding Wiki
Hancock, New York | |
|---|---|
 | |
| MSL | 800' |
| AGL | 500' |
| Glide to LZ | ??? |
| Rating/Skills | H4
H3 w/observer FL CL Signoffs recommended |
| Wind Directions | S |
| Season | Year round |
| Restrictions | Must receive permission to fly from the owner each time, and must report back once all pilots have landed safely.. |
| Site Type | Private |
| Fees | Purchase something at the Do Drop Inn. |
| Contact | |
| Links | http://groups.yahoo.com/group/snyhgpa-web/ |
Overview
Hancock is a great place to fly and it certainly includes one of the most beautiful views anywhere. However it is a technical site, requiring solid foot launch and landing approach skills. It is highly recommended that you be introduced to this site by one of the local pilots.
History
?
Geography/Meteorology
The launch is up a winding, rutted, dirt mountain road that can only be negotiated with a low range 4X4. It would be best to link up with a group that is going out there that includes at least two low range 4X4s and/or a driver to bring the 4X4 down after you launch.
Setup is done in the woods, and the cliff launch is little more than a slot carved in the trees barely 1.5 wingspans wide. The launch is more like a short ramp than a true cliff launch.
You'll want the wind blowing at least 5 MPH, but not more than 10MPH because it gets really turbulent due to the site (launch and LZ) being located on the lee side of a mountain.
The LZ is long and skinny, perpendicular to the launch (and typical wind) direction. It is big enough, but has power lines that run diagonal through the west half of the LZ. Because of shape of the field, the wires, and trees, your approach options are limited. The air in the horseshoe shaped valley can be switchy and challenging.
Clubs/Owners/Manager
This is an privately owned site. The protocol is to stop at the Do Drop Inn each time and notify the owner behind the counter that you want to fly, then when you're done you need to stop by and tell them that everyone is down safe and that you're all done. Contact the Southern New York Hang Glider and Paraglider Association(SNYHGPA) if you wish to arrange an introduction.
Site Records
Flex wing Distance/Duration - Unknown
Rigid wing Distance/Duration- Unknown
