The Rogallo wing, as a combination of flight technology and aerodynamics, is an exhilarating aerial sport that blends elements of paragliding and gliding. This sport enables an unpowered aircraft to gain thousands of meters of altitude and cover long distances, thanks to rising thermal air currents and winds. Flying with a Rogallo wing is regarded both as a sport and a scientific exploration, as understanding the principles of aerodynamics and flight is crucial for a successful flight.

^{Rogallo Wing (Source: Gazete Kadıköy)}

The Rogallo wing is typically constructed by stretching special fabric over a frame made of aluminum or composite materials. The shape of the wing is in the form of the Greek letter "Δ" (Delta), and for this reason, it is often referred to as a "delta wing." During flight, the pilot moves like a pendulum inside a harness attached to the center of balance of the wing. The speed, turns, and direction of the wing are controlled by the commands given by the pilot.

The Rogallo wing operates on the principle of gliding. In other words, without using a motor, the wing can stay in the air for a long time thanks to rising thermal air currents and winds hitting the slopes. This system creates an aerodynamic structure in which the pilot shifts the center of gravity of the wing to steer and continue the flight.

History of the Rogallo Wing

The Rogallo wing, as one of humanity's oldest dreams of flying, has undergone a significant evolution from ancient times to the present. The first flight attempts begin with the efforts of Chinese Emperor Shun (2200 BCE) to fly from a tower. This marks an important step in the path of early flight experiments. Later, in ancient Greek mythology, the story of Icarus and Daedalus is one of the earliest examples that convey the excitement and dangers of the dream of flight. Daedalus built wings made of wax for his son to escape imprisonment and provided him with the opportunity to fly. The melting of Icarus's wings during his flight and his fall into the sea demonstrates how thrilling yet risky the experience of flying can be.

In the Middle Ages, Hezarfen Ahmed Çelebi flew from the Galata Tower in 1632 and landed in Üsküdar after crossing the Bosphorus. This is considered one of the first successful flights in history. However, due to the limited technology of that period, such flights often ended in disappointments.

During the Renaissance, the great genius Leonardo da Vinci conducted detailed studies to understand the principles of flight and designed mechanical flying devices inspired by the anatomy of birds. However, since he did not understand that birds fly not only with muscle power but also with their wing structures, these designs were unsuccessful.

^{Leonardo da Vinci, Principle of Flight (Source: Pinterest)}

In the 19th century, German engineer Otto Lilienthal constructed the first gliders resembling modern Rogallo wings and conducted over 2,000 flights. These flights marked a significant step in understanding aerodynamic principles. Lilienthal's gliders played a critical role in the development of aviation.

The foundations of the modern Rogallo wing were laid in 1948 by NASA engineer Francis Rogallo. Rogallo initiated the modern design of the Rogallo wing by filing the first patent for flexible wings. In the 1960s, his design paved the way for commercial production of Rogallo wings, made using bamboo and plastic materials.

^{Francis Rogallo (Source:THK)}

In 1966, Bill Moyes and Bill Bennett conducted the first independent hang glider flight while being towed by water skis. This is considered the beginning of modern hang gliding flights. Moyes used the hang glider with body weight and a seated trapeze, while Bennett brought the sport to America, where it gained recognition.

In the 1970s, hang gliding rapidly became popular in Europe and America, and competitions began to be organized during this period. In Germany, Mike Harker flew from Zugspitze Mountain, introducing hang gliding to Europe. In 1974, the Swiss Hang Gliding Club was established, and international championships began to be held worldwide.

In Turkey, hang gliding was initiated by the Turkish Aeronautical Association in 1988, with the first pilot training sessions conducted by instructors brought from Italy. Since then, hang gliding has rapidly developed in Turkey, with numerous courses organized by the Turkish Aeronautical Association and international achievements being attained.

Technical Features and Variations

Rogallo wings come in various types to cater to different skill levels, each with distinct technical features. A beginner's wing weighs approximately 20-25 kg and supports pilot weights ranging from 50 to 100 kg. The average flight speed of a beginner wing is between 30-75 km/h, but this can vary depending on the type of wing and weather conditions.

Tandem Rogallo Wing

A tandem wing is designed to allow two people to fly simultaneously. This model is often used by instructors to provide students with their first flight experiences. The tandem wing weighs around 32 kg and can support a combined weight of 100-200 kg for the pilot and passenger. Tandem flights are also suitable for individuals who want to experience Rogallo wing flying without undergoing full training.

^{Tandem Rogallo Wing (Source)}

Motorized Rogallo Wing (Microlight)

A motorized Rogallo wing is a model equipped with an engine and propeller. This design eliminates the need for a high hill to initiate flight. With the thrust provided by the engine, takeoffs and landings can be performed from suitable flat terrain. It is commonly used for demonstration flights and long-distance flights. Motorized Rogallo wings can remain airborne as long as there is sufficient fuel and do not rely on thermals or wind currents.

^{Motorized Rogallo Wing (Source: Pinterest)}

Training Process and Participation Requirements

Rogallo wing flying requires a careful training process. Beginner courses typically last 15 training days. During this period, pilot candidates perform 30 gliding sorties on hills up to 50 meters high and attend theoretical classes. If no suitable hills are available, flight practice can be conducted using a winch system. Additionally, tandem flights are carried out with an instructor when meteorological conditions are favorable.

Certain conditions must be met to participate in Rogallo wing training. Participants must be at least 17 years old, with a height between 165 cm and 195 cm and a weight between 50 kg and 95 kg. Other requirements include completing primary education, providing a criminal record certificate, signing a commitment form, and obtaining a health report.

Safety and Regulations in Rogallo Wing Flying

Although Rogallo wing flying was initially considered an unsafe sport, advancements in technology and safety measures have made it a highly secure activity today. Modern Rogallo wings are manufactured using durable materials and aerodynamic designs. However, as with any sport, there are essential safety precautions to follow during flights. Pilots carry safety equipment such as a reserve parachute, helmet, and hook knife.

In Turkey, Rogallo wing flying was introduced in 1988 by the Turkish Aeronautical Association (THK). Regulations related to Rogallo wing flying are implemented in compliance with safety standards set by Civil Aviation Authorities.