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As gliders got heavier and better, pilots began to look for improved ways to launch. It was not long before enthusiasts began to use cars to pull shock cords and then to pull the gliders by the long wire or rope. Once again, improvements in technology and equipment were introduced and powered winches and airplane towing became the preferred method of launching gliders. 

This chapter discusses several glider launch techniques and procedures along with takeoff procedures, traffic patterns, flight maneuvers, and landing and recovery procedures. Additional information may be found at the Soaring Society of America (SSA) website at www.ssa.org and the Soaring Safety Foundation website at www.soaringsafety.org. 

## Aerotow Takeoff Procedures 

## Signals 

Launching a nonpowered glider requires the use of visual signals for communication and coordination between the glider, towing aircraft, and the ground crew. Ground launching signals consist of prelaunch signals and in-flight signals. 

## Prelaunch Signals 

Aerotow prelaunch signals facilitate communication between pilots and launch crewmembers/wing runners preparing for the launch. These signals are shown in Figure 7-1 . 

<img src='content_image/557879.jpg'>

