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2. Once it has been confirmed that the glider has released and is clear, the tow pilot should clear the airspace to the left and start a medium bank, descending left turn. 

3. The glider should turn right after release but may proceed straight ahead a few moments before turning right. Always be alert for non-standard maneuvering by the glider. 

When the tow pilot has positively observed and confirmed the release of the tow line (assumption of release is not acceptable), the pilot of the tow plane may begin a left turn and initiate the descent. In some instances, the glider will release with slack in the tow line. This soft release may not be detectable by the tow pilot. If there is any doubt of the release status in the mind of the tow pilot, the tow pilot should continue the tow and confirm the release via radio or visually. 

## Descent, Approach and Landing 

## Descent 

During the descent, proper engine management is essential. Good engine conservation practices require a gradual power reduction and conservative descent airspeeds. In fact, studies indicate that airspeed may be more critical than power reduction. Therefore, every attempt should be made to avoid airspeed acceleration and power reduction for 3 minutes after glider release. Full flaps or slipping turns can be used to obtain a suitable rate of descent. Closing cowl flaps, if available, further reduces the rate of engine cooling. Realize oil temperature is not as reliable as cylinder head temperature for managing temperature change. Each airplane requires slightly different techniques; however, the goal is to keep the engine as warm as possible while descending at a reasonable rate. 

Collision avoidance is always a high priority, since descending flight attitudes increase the potential of a mid-air collision. Consider developing and using specific descent corridors that are void of glider and power traffic. 

## Approach and Landing 

A 200-foot tow line hangs down behind the tow plane at a 30 to 40 degree angle. The altitude of the tow plane must be adjusted to ensure the tow line does not become entangled in obstructions at close proximity to the ground. 

Ensure you are thoroughly briefed and familiar with the obstructions around the airport, especially obstructions on the approach end of the runway to be used. Briefings should include a minimum above ground level (AGL) obstruction crossing height and any factors that may influence altitude judgment, such as visual illusions or other airport distractions. 

Landing with the tow line attached is not prohibited by regulation; however, the following points should be considered: 

1. Obstructions are cleared by more than the tow line length (altimeter lag considered). 

2. The field is well turfed. It is simply inviting early tow line failure from abrasion to land with the tow line on hard ground or paved runways. Landing with the tow line should never be attempted unless the field has clear approaches and is at least 2,500 feet in length. 

Other situations require the tow line to be dropped, normally in the glider launch area, during short approach to the runway. If the tow line is to be dropped, the tow pilot must be constantly aware of the launch area situation. The tow line drop area must be defined and ground personnel must be briefed and aware of the drop area. Ground personnel must stay clear of the drop area, and the presence of an individual in the drop area requires an immediate go-around by the pilot of the tow plane without dropping the tow line. 

## Cross-Country Aerotow 

Planning is the key for a successful and safe cross-county tow. [Figure 12-15]  Fuel consumption during any tow operation is high. Plan conservatively, using the maximum fuel consumption for your particular tow plane and also plan for the possibility of a diversion along your route of flight. Study your route of flight on current sectional charts paying particular attention to airspace, both controlled and special use. 

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Since a tow line break is a constant possibility, always plan your route of flight over landable terrain and, while in flight, strive to keep the glider over landable terrain. Tow and glider pilot fatigue is a real hazard. Make sure you are properly rested and in good medical condition prior to the flight. If the flight is particularly long, plan rest stops along the way, 

