BACKGROUND OF LA SALINA 

Puerto Cielo at La Salina is located approximately 40 minutes from the border crossing at San Diego and Tijuana. The ridge is about 4.5 miles long, and is about a mile east from the beach at La Playa de La Salina. 

WHO OWNS THE RIDGE

The Ejido is made up of a group of 49 families, like a Grange or Cooperative. Collectively, they own over 8000 acres. This area includes the property which starts at the dirt road that fronts the parking lot and goes up over the ridge, across the mesa on top as far as you can see. Most of the river valley of La Mission is also included. The Ejido La Mision belongs to the Mexican National Association of Ejidos (an Ejido is like a cooperative). NOTE: The Ejido has been very cooperative and accommodating. Please help us keep this site clean and in good maintenance.

Accomodations can be arranged by Bajabrent  (see www.bajabrent.com ), a pilot who resides on the beach across from the ridge.Bajabrent has flown La Salina for 9 years.

                                                            GENERAL SUGGESTED RULES

IT HAS BEEN SUGGESTED BY MANY FLIGHT INSTRUCTORS THAT UNLESS YOU ARE UNDER THE DIRECT SUPERVISION OF AN EXPERIENCED INSTRUCTOR, THIS SITE IS RECOMMENDED FOR INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED RATED PILOTS WITH STRONG THERMAL EXPERIENCE.

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Puerto Cielo" is NOT a typical coastal ridge soaring site. Although smooth lift may be found here, strong thermals, (1000 ft/min) are common. Expect turbulence near the ridge, especially in cross wind conditions. Be aware of the laminar flow of air, venturi effect, windshear, vertical and horizontal rotors.

Extreme caution should be used when deciding to launch in wind velocities of 15 mph and greater. Use the south launch in winds crossing from the north. Use the north launch in winds crossing from the south. If the wind is NNW or SSW, this ridge becomes more dangerous:

1. Use 2-meter radio frequency 144.995 or 144.250 MHz for communication. In case of an emergency, 144.995 is the frequency used by local pilots and emergency response personnel.
2. Do NOT litter! Pack it in, pack it out!
3. Carry at least a pint of water.
4. Read the Emergency Procedures.
5. Make sure everyone knows the Suggested Site Rules.
6. Always do a preflight check which includes your reserve parachute.
7. Wear a suitable helmet, boots and clothing, preferably long pants and a long sleeve shirt or flight suit.
8. Wear a harness with back and seat protection!
9. Be familiar with the alternate landing zones.
10. Pilots on landing approach have the right of way.
11. Pilots launching have the second right of way.
12. The pilot with the ridge on the right has the right of way.
13. Make eye contact with other pilots so you know they see you.
14. Look before you start to turn.
15. Remember, the craft that is below you cannot see you. If they are climbing, get out of their way! They have the right of way!
16. In a head on collision situation, brake right!
17. When overtaking on the ridge, fly between the lower craft and the ridge.
18. When entering an occupied thermal, turn in the same direction.
19. Watch out for the cactus, It can puncture your wing and feel very uncomfortable, if you get the point!

NOTE: Paragliding and hang gliding are inherently dangerous sports. They are made more dangerous by ignorance and bravado. Good pilots know their limitations and stay within the parameters of their abilities. Don't push the envelope!

FLY AT YOUR OWN RISK. YOU ARE TOTALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR ACTIONS!!!

Have lots of fun!

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