Which statement best describes the recommended crosswind autotow positioning?

Which statement best describes the recommended crosswind autotow positioning?

• A. Position the glider and towrope obliquely to the takeoff line on the downwind side
• B. Position the glider directly on the centerline behind the tow vehicle
• C. Place the towrope on the upwind side and parallel to the runway
• D. Center the towrope in front of the tow vehicle

Answer: (A)

In a crosswind autotow, the goal is stable tracking along the runway as the tow aircraft accelerates. Placing the glider and towrope obliquely to the takeoff line on the downwind side keeps the glider offset toward the wind. This setup uses the wind’s push to help keep the glider aligned with the tow plane and the runway, while the angled towrope provides a gentle steering moment that helps the glider stay on the intended path as airspeed increases. Centerline behind the tow plane wouldn’t counteract the crosswind well, and putting the rope on the upwind side or directly in front of the tow vehicle would create poor alignment and increased drift risk.

In a crosswind autotow, the goal is stable tracking along the runway as the tow aircraft accelerates. Placing the glider and towrope obliquely to the takeoff line on the downwind side keeps the glider offset toward the wind. This setup uses the wind’s push to help keep the glider aligned with the tow plane and the runway, while the angled towrope provides a gentle steering moment that helps the glider stay on the intended path as airspeed increases. Centerline behind the tow plane wouldn’t counteract the crosswind well, and putting the rope on the upwind side or directly in front of the tow vehicle would create poor alignment and increased drift risk.