Kite Launching & Landing: Learn to launch your kite safely

In this article we will learn how to properly launch and land your kite in the safest way possible. Read along to learn about launching your kite with a helper as well as self launching and landing.

How To Launch Your Kite 

Once you have setup your kite and safely inspected your equipment, you are ready to launch. Check your surroundings and make sure you have enough space to launch and that there is nothing in the way of your lines or bar. Plan your route to the water before hand, making sure you have a clear path to walk in once your kite is launched.

Step 1: Attach Your Leash

It is important for the  to attach their leash to the lines. this is so that if the kite gets away from the launcher then it will not power up or roll down the beach. “do not attach the chicken loop to the spreader bar yet”

Step 2: Have Someone Flip The Kite Over

Making sure to grab the very center of the leading edge the launcher should flip the kite “completely on its back. ” make sure to flip the kite away from the kiter”

Step 3: Start at a Downwind Angle

The kiter should walk slightly downwind of the extreme edge of the window until there is tension on the lines. The kite should be barely flapping indicating that there is no lift being created. If the kiter is to far upwind the kite will knock the person launching the kite over. Also it is important to walk to the edge closest to the water. This is because if the kite malfunctions you will want the maximum width of the beach as a buffer.

Step 4: Inspect Lines and Bridles

Both parties should inspect the lines and bridling for twist and tangles.” This is the number one cause of kite related accidents.”

Step 5: Connect the chicken loop to the spreader bar.

Make sure your chicken stick is securing your chicken loop to your harness hook. Give it a shake to make sure nothing comes apart.

Step 6: Walk upwind until the kite stops flapping.

Walk slowly, especially in stronger winds, allowing the tension to increase in the kite progressively. 

Step 7: Issue a thumbs up and go Kiteboarding!

Be mindful as you walk to the water with your kite in the air, keep tension in your lines to have control of your lines and prevent kite stalling.

How do you properly land a kite?

Step 1: Identify a properly trained person and issue them the landing signal.

The industry standard landing signal is a pat on the head (similar to the O.K. sign from in safety courses). *Note - do not try to train a spectator to catch your kite!

Step 2: Bring the kite to the extreme lower edge of the window. ”

either 5:45 or 6: 15, remember 6:00 is the horizon on both sides”

Step 3: Let the person landing your kite grab it from the sky. ”

try to avoid letting your kite touch the ground until they have a firm grip on your sail.”

Step 4: Unhook from the chicken loop but leave the leash attached

Step 5: Check that your kite is secure or secure it yourself.

Step 6: Unhook your leash and roll your lines up to the kite.

To protect your equipment and others “try to avoid leaving your lines out”
Check this page in the future for diagrams and photos.S

How To Self Launch 

How To Self Land