Toby wrote:is the lofting a real dangerous thing?
I don't think so. At least if it is not a real freak gust.
If you keep simple rules in mind, like "distance is your friend" (thx Richard for the story of those guys...unbelievable!!!) then if you get lofted you just fly it, come down and release.
I think the real problem is here the fast kites! Too easy to loose control and get it to loop.
A slower kite just sits there.
I think lessons should teach that if yo get lofted, you need to fly it, and not panic. There is no other option!
I agree and don't agree with you!
Is a lofting a dangerous thing? it most certainly is!!!!.. most deaths occur by an involuntary lofting.
Flying the kite while lofted is good advice. As you state. There is no other option.
let the bar out and keep the kite at the zenith. Then power up and redirect as you normally would for landing.
The problem with a lofting is that it occurs typically when you are overpowered in higher winds.
As soon as you leave the ground you start hauling arse down wind. its the down wind speed that's the issue when landing. On the water not a problem. on the land..... well you will it depends what obstacles are in the way!.....
Distance is your friend... good advice. but it is not always possible.
Fast kites are the culprit? no this is wrong. Its not the fast kite that gets you kills you (of course its possible). its the overpowered kite that lofts/kills you.
As an example. If I am flying a slow 18m in 25 knots or a fast 6m in 25knots. I am far far far far far more likely to be lofted/killed by the slower but overpowered 18m. Infact my 6m does not have the power to loft me in those winds.
The advice that should be given is do not fly an over powered kite irrespective of size.