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When using a vehicle to tow a glider, use a towline that is more than half the wingspan of the glider. If one wingtip stops moving for any reason, this towline length prevents the glider from pivoting and striking the tow vehicle with the opposite wingtip. Full wingspan length is desirable; however, half the wingspan plus 10 feet provides safe operation. Ensure that the glider canopy is always closed if no one is around the glider. This prevents the wind, or turbulence from a taxiing towplane, to cause the canopy to close abruptly, which could damage the canopy frame or even crack the canopy glass. 

When starting, slowly take up slack in the line with the vehicle to prevent sudden jerking of the glider. The towing speed should be no faster than a brisk walk. When towing a glider, always use at least one wing walker. The wing walker and the driver of the tow vehicle function as a team, alert for obstacles, wind, and any other factor that may affect the safety of the glider. The driver should always stay alert for any signals from the wing walkers. [Figure 6-6] 

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If it is necessary to move the glider during high winds, use two or more crewmembers placed at the wingtips and tail. Also, have a pilot in the cockpit, with the spoilers deployed, holding the controls appropriately to reduce lift on the glider. Strong winds and gusts can cause damage to the glider during ground handling, so exercise care during these conditions. 

Another method of towing uses specially designed towing gear similar to a trailer tow bar that attaches directly to a vehicle towing a trailer. The tow bar makes guiding the glider much easier and allows the wing walkers to concentrate on ensuring wingtip clearances. [Figure 6-7] 

## Launch Equipment Inspection 

Prior to making a flight, it is important to inspect the condition of the towline/towrope. The glider pilot is primarily responsible for inspection and selection of the proper towrope. However, the tow pilot has a responsibility to ensure that the towrope selection meets the criteria stated in 14 CFR part 91 and is acceptable for use. This inspection is the responsibility of the tow pilot. The towline should be free from excess wear; all strands should be intact, and the line should be free from knots. Towropes should be inspected prior to every flight. Consideration should be given in replacing the towrope after a period of time due to usage and ultraviolet (UV) exposure from being in the sun and exposed to the elements. [Figure 6-8]  14 CFR part 91, section 91.309, requires that the strength of the towline be within a range of 80 to 200 percent of the maximum certificated weight of the glider. If the towrope is more than twice the maximum strength, a safety link is required between the tow rope and glider rated at not less than 80 percent of the maximum certified operating weight of the glider but not greater than twice the operating weight. Also, a safety link must be installed between the towing aircraft and towrope with breaking strength greater than the glider safety link, but no more than 25 percent greater, and not greater than twice the maximum certificated weight of the glider. Figure 6-9  shows the strength of some ropes typically used. 

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