RGSA SITE PROTOCOLS    January 2012 

1. All RGSA pilots and drivers should do their best to present hang gliding and paragliding in the most positive possible way to the public.  Any complaints could cost us our launch sites or landing zones, so be courteous, positive and informative.  In the desert, carry water and offer it to those who may need it. 
2. In RGSA country, safety is paramount.  Always check your equipment, always respect the conditions.  Check your fellow pilots and their equipment before launching (foot launched, towed or under power) and speak your mind if you have safety concerns.  Remember that if there is any accident, everyone’s flying will be impacted. 
3. Due to the remoteness of our sites, pilots should not fly alone.  Carry a cell phone or other communication device with you when flying.
4. Hang glider pilots must get a hang check before launching. 
5. Pilots will always fly with helmets.  Pilots must have a backup parachute system when flying at altitude.  Parachutes should be repacked at least once each year, and gliders should have an annual inspection.   
6. Pilots must be USHPA members to fly at RGSA sites, with ratings and skills appropriate to each site to be flown.   
7. In Alamogordo, if White Sands dusts up, there is too much turbulence and flying should be discontinued until the turbulence abates.  Other site-specific protocols should be discussed and observed before launching at any RGSA site.
8. If in doubt about conditions or circumstances, ask yourself before flying, “Is this going to be fun, or not?”  You can always fly another day.