How to: Stay safe around power lines

Staying alert to power lines is a key part of learning to fly XC – don’t let them catch you out when in the air or on the ground

The official incident report is brief, but it tells a story we can all recognise. “The pilot became aware of power lines when about to enter final approach to land. They changed their landing approach direction to avoid the hazard. They sustained minor injuries to their feet and legs landing with a tailwind.”

The pilot, who had 31 years’ experience and 690 logged hours, was flying a hang glider in calm conditions in June this year. Although the pilot suffered minor injuries they spotted the danger in...