1

Operating, Maintenance & Inspection Instructions

for Bailey Tow & Release System

Name and Contact Information of Contributor:

Pitman Air (Edgar D Pitman dba Pitman Air) 6905 Frey Road, Shingletown, CA 96088 530-945-1860

Contents:

1. General Information.................................................................................................................................................. 2

1.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................... 2

1.2 Certification Basis................................................................................................................................................. 2

1.3 Warnings, Cautions and Notes Explained: ........................................................................................................... 2

1.4 Description of Bailey Release and Tow System ................................................................................................... 2

1.5 Perspective Views and Photos............................................................................................................................. 2

FIGURE 1 (Bailey Release & Tow System Configuration) ........................................................................................... 2

2. Limitations.................................................................................................................................................................. 7

2.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................... 7

2.2 Installation ........................................................................................................................................................... 7

2.3 Loads.................................................................................................................................................................... 7

FIGURE 2 Knots used for Safety Links ........................................................................................................................ 7

2.4 Angles................................................................................................................................................................... 8

2.5 Forces................................................................................................................................................................... 8

2.6 Specifications....................................................................................................................................................... 8

2.7 Period of Operations of Release, TBO and Inspection Intervals. ......................................................................... 8

3. Checklists.................................................................................................................................................................... 9

3.1 Pre-flight (second person needed)...................................................................................................................... 9

3.2 Pre-Tow................................................................................................................................................................ 9

3.3 Post-Flight ............................................................................................................................................................ 9

4. Maintenance and Service........................................................................................................................................... 9

4.1 General................................................................................................................................................................. 9

4.2 Installation ........................................................................................................................................................... 9

4.3 Inspections......................................................................................................................................................... 10

4.4 Operational Tests............................................................................................................................................... 10

5. Signals and Communications for Tow Operations ................................................................................................... 11

FIGURE 3 Common Signals...................................................................................................................................... 12

FIGURE 4 Common Arm and Hand Signals.............................................................................................................. 13

FIGURE 5 Common Aircraft Signals......................................................................................................................... 14

6. Safety Bulletins......................................................................................................................................................... 14

7. Operational and Service Difficulty Reporting........................................................................................................... 15

Safety of Flight & Service Difficulty Report Form......................................................................................................... 16
2

1. General Information

1.1 Introduction

The Bailey Release and Tow System has been used and refined since 1990 on the Bailey Moyes 

Dragonfly for towing Hang Gliders, Ultralight Gliders and Light Sailplanes. This is more than a Release , it is 

a complete System. Comprised of key elements protecting both the Tow Plane and the Craft being towed.

The Bridle and Slider, which is unique to the Dragonfly Aero-Towing community, allows more pitch control 

of the Tow Plane during towing. This combined with proven application of the Safety Link in the Bridle 

protects the maneuverability and structure of the Tow Plane. 

1.2 Certification Basis

Given the more than 2 decades of successful use under Waivers in the Ultralight arena, before the 

Light Sport Rule, it has been proven to be the safest and most effective way to tow Ultralight Vehicles and 

Light Weight Gligers aloft. The Bailey Tow and Release System has several hundred thousand successful 

tows in the United States and many other countries around the world. The Dragonfly and Bailey Tow & 

Release System has been the Tow Aircraft of choice for Flight Parks and Competitions for the past 20 years 

in the Hang Gliding community and has proven to be the safest and most efficient method to tow 

Ultralights aloft. Most of the United States is dependent on towing because of the lack of suitable 

mountainous terrain. With Aero-Towing, the entire United States has been able to enjoy Hang Gliding and 

similar activities. In fact the majority of Hang Gliding Competitions and World Records started with an AeroTow utilizing the Bailey Tow and Release System.

1.3 Warnings, Cautions and Notes Explained:

WARNING: Denote items where PPE is required when working on the system components.

CAUTION: Denote items pertaining to safety that may be easily overlooked and may need double 

checking.

NOTE: Items of particular interest or must be Inspected during routine maintenance and 

inspection.

1.4 Description of Bailey Release and Tow System

The Bailey Tow and Release System has a release similar to the “Schweizer Release” but also 

incorporates special aspects such as the Bridle, Slider and Safety Links in key locations which afford the 

maximum amount of maneuverability and safety to the tow plane & pilots of both craft. For this reason we 

consider it a Complete System rather than just a release mechanism. 

1.5 Perspective Views and Photos 

FIGURE 1 (Bailey Tow & Release System Configuration)

CAUTION: Any increase in Safety Link strength or change of configuration may cause structural damage 

and/or allow either or both aircraft to get into unsafe attitudes. Safety Links must be installed in the 

configurations outlined within!
3

Figure A: Bailey Release Mechanism

Figure B: Quick Release and Safety Link

Quick Change Pin and Retainer showing configuration of Safety Link.

Option A has Triple Strength Configuration shown in Figure 2, to give 3 strands of 130 lb. line Safety Link 

connecting bridle to towline.

Option B has Single Loop of 200 Lb. line not doubled. This provides 2 strands of 200 lb. Safety Link carrying 

the loads.

Figure B-2 Bridle Quick Change Link

NOTE: This shows upper line that needs to be shortened to keep link above rudder to prevent contact.
4

Figure C: Slider Ring or Karabiner

Figure D: Top Post Quick Change Line Retainer and Simple Retainer Knot.

Simple Granny Knot with tail tucked in tube ahead of Knot
5

Figure E: Small Karabiner or Ring with Funnel Device for wind resistance and additional drag to make 

the untethered tow line fly higher behind the Tow Plane. It also protects the Karabiner or Ring attachment 

and line attachment from excessive wear.

Rings or Karabiner are attached with line passed through loop and pulled snug.

Figure E-2: Single Point Glider Attachment, 

Option A has Single Loop Doubled to give 4 strands of 130 lb. line Safety Link connecting glider to towline.

Option B has Single Loop of 200 Lb. line not doubled. This provides 2 strands of Safety Link carrying the 

loads.
6

Figure E 3 2 Point Glider Attachment, picture shows a Single Loop Safety Link of 130 lb. Solo or 200 

lb. Tandem, attached by passing it through itself and attaching to Glider Release. This provides 2 strands of 

Safety Link carrying the loads.

CAUTION: Any increase in Safety Link strength or change of configuration can cause structural damage 

and/or allow either or both aircraft to get into unsafe attitudes. Safety Links must be installed in the 

configurations outlined within!

Figure E 4 3 Point Glider attachment

Figure F: Release Handle

Release Pressure is easily measured with a Digital Postal Scale. Normally 5 lb. 4 oz. However, 4 to 9 lbs. of 

pressure are acceptable. More than 9 lbs. pressure indicates release cable needs service or replacement 

and/or excessive resistance somewhere in the system. 
7

2. Limitations

2.1 Introduction

It is important to adhere to the specifications for Installation, Maintenance and Inspection that 

have been tested, refined and proven since 1990. This information is found in the Dragonfly Maintenance 

Manual and Dragonfly Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) . In order to confirm you have the most current 

information, consult manuals posted on the website at: www.pitmanair.com/dragonfly

2.2 Installation

Installation and Maintenance are defined in the Dragonfly Maintenance Manual.

2.3 Loads

Maximum gross vehicle weight to be towed: 562 lbs. (255 Kg.)

Loads are limited by proper installation and used of “Safety Links” commonly referred to as Weak Links.

Option A: Safety Links are made from 130 lb. Braided Dacron Fishing Line. We use TUF LINE BRAIDED 

DACRON 130 LB. TEST GREEN SPOT, which can be purchased on the Internet.

Option B: Safety Links are made from 130 lb. Braided Dacron Fishing Line. We use TUF LINE BRAIDED 

DACRON 200 LB. TEST GREEN SPOT, which can be purchased on the Internet.

The Single Loop is used to fasten the Towline to the Glider being towed when using 2 point glider bridle. 

(Point E in Figure 1) & (Figure E-3 Two Point Glider Attachment ) & ( Figure E-2 Option B).

The Triple Strength Link is used to fasten the Tow Bridle to the Quick Release. (Point B in Figure 1) & (Figure 

B option A)

FIGURE 2 Knots used for Safety Links
8

CAUTION: Any increase in Safety Link strength or change of configuration can cause structural damage 

and/or allow either or both aircraft to get into unsafe attitudes. Safety Links MUST be installed in the 

configurations outlined within this manual to insure protection of the tow plane structure and safety of 

the tow!

The Tow System, Release and Airframe have been tested in accordance with AC 43.13-2B Chapter 8 804 (d)

1, 2 & 3

NOTE: This Placard must be in the Cockpit and view of the Tow Pilot. “ Glider Towline assembly Safety Link 

breaking strength not to exceed 130 lbs. or (200 lbs. for Option B) and tied in the manner specified in the 

manuals.” and “Banner towing is excluded by the Light Sport Rule.” (AC 43.13-2B 807)

NOTE: Placard in Cockpit to indicate Release operation. “Emergency Release, Squeeze Lever to Release 

Towline.”

2.4 Angles

Angles tested in accordance with AC 43.13-2B 806 and additionally to a 33 degree cone of forces.

2.5 Forces

Forces to the Aircraft structure are limited by the Safety Links. These have been tested in both slow 

application and quick application of forces. The Maximum Gross weight of the vehicle being towed is set at 

562 lbs. (255 Kg.) And Specific Safety Link System as described herein protect against damaging forces.

Tested in the cone of forces to 675 lbs. in accordance with AC 43.13 – 2B 804 d (1)

2.6 Specifications

2.6.1 Tow Lines and Safety Links.

Towlines and Bridle are made of Spectra 1000 or Dyneema (UHMwPE). Typically 1100# to 1600# due 

to the dragging of the line during landing and taxi we use a more durable line. The small diameter 

and light weight of the towline, allows it to maintain alignment with less effect from wind & gravity 

forces. There is almost zero plasticity allowing all forces to get to the Safety Links rapidly.

CAUTION: Never use twisted construction lines or rope. Always use Braided construction lines as 

specified in Dragonfly Manuals.

NOTE: Because of the durable size of the line, it is important to insure Safety Links are properly 

installed. Refer to FIGURE 2 for proper tying and configuration

Safety Links are made from 130 lb. Braided Dacron Fishing Line. Or 200 lb. for Option B

NOTE: We use TUF LINE BRAIDED DACRON 130 LB. TEST GREEN SPOT,(Option A) or TUF LINE BRAIDED 

DACRON 130 LB. TEST GREEN SPOT (Option B)which can be purchased on the Internet. (or equivalent 

proven by testing breaking strengths) 

2.7 Period of Operations of Release, TBO and Inspection Intervals.

Normally at engine change or rebuild, approximately 2000 hours or 6,000 tows, a complete and 

thorough inspection of the release should be performed. There is no specific TBO for the Release. 
9

However, every Annual or 100 Hour Inspection requires a thorough inspection and cleaning to insure there 

are no problems with wear or operation of the Release and all components in the Tow and Release System. 

There are Releases in operation that are more the 20 years old and thousands of hours, which are 

still in good working condition. Some older units had a zinc plated steel spring that eventually corrodes. But 

the newer Stainless Steel Spring has shown no signs of problems. We have never experienced a broken 

spring in 20+ years, but it must be inspected every Pre Flight, Annual or 100 Hour Inspection.

3. Checklists

3.1 Pre-flight (second person needed)

1) Visually inspect all components and lines.

2) Inspect Release Mechanism and Spring.

3) Without pressure on Bridle, insure Release Locking Arm on Release Assembly and Handle return 

to Normal Positions.

4) With pull being applied to bridle, test that line releases properly and with smooth motion of the 

release handle.

5) Insure that Safety Links are proper size, material and installed properly. Links are in good 

condition. Both the Bridle Safety Link and Safety Links to be used on the glider end.

3.2 Pre-Tow

1) Insure that Pilots, Ground Crew and Helpers have the proper Ratings, Authorizations, Waivers 

and Experience necessary to conduct Safe Operations.

2) Insure that all Ground and In-Flight Signals and Communications between Tow Plane Pilot, Glider 

Pilot and Ground Crew are agreed upon and everyone involved knows these signals to insure there is no 

confusion during operations.

3) Insure that Ground Crew and Bystanders are aware of the Safety Practices, Operational Zones 

and Safe Zones during Tow Operations.

3.3 Post-Flight or End of Day

1) Conduct the Post Flight (same as Pre-Flight Inspection) to see if maintenance is needed before 

next operation.

4. Maintenance and Service

4.1 General

Proper Service and Maintenance of the Tow and Release System is critical to Safe Operations. Safety Links 

in prescribed configurations protect the airframe structure from excessive forces.

4.2 Installation

Installation must be in accordance with the current Dragonfly Maintenance Manual. Available for download 

at: www.pitmanair.com/dragonfly
10

4.3 Inspections

NOTE: Daily Inspection & Preflight Inspection are the same.

A) Pre-flight (second person needed)

1) Visually inspect all components and lines.

2) Inspect Release Mechanism

3) Without pressure on Bridle, insure Release Locking Arm on Release Assembly and Handle return 

to Normal Positions.

4) With pull being applied to bridle, test that line releases properly and with smooth motion of the 

release handle.

5) Insure that Safety Links are proper size, material and installed properly. Links are in good 

condition. Both the Bridle Safety Link and Safety Links to be used on the glider end.

B) Every 100 Hours or Annual Inspection, whichever occurs first.

1) Inspect for excessive wear or binding in the system.

2) Inspect the Release Handle Cable Housing for cracks which would indicate deterioration of the 

cable housing.

3) Insure that the Release Handle Pressure measured at the top of the handle does not exceed 9

lbs. but not less than 4 lbs.. 

4) Insure that the cable moves freely through the cable housing and returns to the normal position 

by release and handle spring pressure only.

5) Insure that the release L link has not developed a wear notch. This notch can be smoothed with 

a file. But do not remove more than 10% of the material on the L link, and insure that it maintains the 

round shape that matches the Release Arm.

5) Inspect all fasteners for proper torque.

6) Inspect all lines for excessive wear, fraying, kinks or knots than would weaken the line beyond 

limits.

7) Insure slider has not developed wear spots or sharp edges that would cut or bind the line.

8) Replace any parts that exhibit excessive wear, friction or damage, in accordance with the 

Maintenance Manual and use only factory replacement parts.

4.4 Operational Tests

1) Without pressure on Bridle, insure Release Locking Arm on Release Assembly and Handle return 

to Normal Positions.

2) With pull being applied to bridle, test that line releases properly and with smooth motion of the 

release handle.

3) Insure that Safety Links are proper size, material and installed properly. Links are in good 

condition. Both the Bridle Safety Link and Safety Links to be used on the glider end.

4.4.1 Operational Forces

Operational Forces are limited by the Safety Links. 

CAUTION: Proper materials and installation of Safety Links are required.

4.5 Corrosion, Wear and Breakage

The components in the Bailey Tow and Release System are made of materials that resist corrosion. Any 

excessive Corrosion, Cracks, Breakage or Wear of parts or assemblies, requires replacement of bad parts or 
11

assemblies with factory supplied parts or assemblies. Refer to current Dragonfly Maintenance Manual at: 

www.pitmanair.com/dragongfly.

4.6 Care and Cleaning

The components of the Tow and Release System should be kept Clean and free of dirt and sand. There 

should be no need for lubrication. If lubrication is applied it should be Dry Lubricant as specified in the 

Dragonfly Maintenance Manual in order to prevent the accumulation of dirt and dust.

4.7 Tow Lines and Safety Links (Weak Links).

Towlines and Bridle are made of Spectra 1000 or Dyneema (UHMwPE). 1200# +/- 20% due to the dragging 

of the line during landing and taxi we use a durable line. The small diameter and light weight of the 

towline, allows it to maintain alignment with less effect from wind & gravity forces. There is almost zero 

plasticity allowing all forces to get to the Safety Links rapidly.

NOTE: Because of the durable size of the line, it is important to insure Safety Links are properly installed.

CAUTION: Loads are limited by proper installation and used of “Safety Links” commonly referred to as 

Weak Links. Refer to FIGURE 2 for proper tying and configuration.

Option A: Safety Links are made from 130 lb. Braided Dacron Fishing Line. We use TUF LINE BRAIDED 

DACRON 130 LB. TEST GREEN SPOT, which can be purchased on the Internet.

Option B: Safety Links are made from 130 lb. Braided Dacron Fishing Line. We use TUF LINE BRAIDED 

DACRON 200 LB. TEST GREEN SPOT, which can be purchased on the Internet.

The Single Loop is used to fasten the Towline to the Glider being towed when using 2 point glider bridle. 

(Point E in Figure 1) & (Figure E-3 Two Point Glider Attachment ) & ( Figure E-2 Option B).

The Triple Strength Link is used to fasten the Tow Bridle to the Quick Release. (Point B in Figure 1) & (Figure 

B option A)

5. Signals and Communications for Tow Operations

5.1 Introduction 

In accordance with 91.309 (a) (5) “The pilots of the towing aircraft and the glider or 

unpowered ultralight vehicle have agreed upon a general course of action, including takeoff 

and release signals, airspeeds, and emergency procedures for each pilot.”

5.2 Hand, Arm and Rudder Signals

NOTE: These are simply examples. The most important aspect of signals, is that everyone involved in tow 

operations knows, understands and uses the same set of signals!
12

By Memphis Soaring

FIGURE 3 Common Signals
13

By Evergreen Soaring

FIGURE 4 Common Arm and Hand Signals
14

By Evergreen Soaring

FIGURE 5 Common Aircraft Signals

5.3 Radio Communications

Radio Communications are usually plain language. However, radio communications should always be 

accompanied by Arm, Hand and Aircraft Action & Control Surface Signals! All persons involved in the Tow 

Operations must understand and use the same set of signals.

6. Safety Bulletins

Safety Bulletins (if any) for the Bailey Release and Tow System can be found on the Dragonfly website at: 

www.pitmanair.com/dragonfly

CAUTION: Safety Bulletins will contain important information and instructions for safety and compliance.
15

7. Operational and Service Difficulty Reporting

7.1 Introduction

Operational Safety is dependent on reporting anomalies and complying with Safety Bulletins. This 

information is available for all on the Pitman Air website. www.pitmanair.com/dragonfly

7.2 Registration in Dragonfly and Bailey Tow and Release System Safety Information 

Network.

Original Owners of the Bailey Moyes Dragonfly by Pitman Air are automatically included in the information 

network. Owners of SLSA are required to inform Pitman Air or the Continued Airworthiness Authority of 

any change of address or contact information within 30 days of such changes. If the unit is sold, the new 

Owner must inform Pitman Air of the new contact information as soon as possible.

NOTE: Experimental Dragonfly Aircraft that transitioned from Ultralights, may take advantage of the Tow

System Authorization or Waiver;

1) by enrolling in the Pitman Air Continued Safety Monitoring Program, and

2) by maintaining their Aircraft and using the Bailey Tow & Release System in accordance with the 

Maintenance and Service Instructions contained in the Dragonfly Maintenance Manual and Pilot Operating 

Handbook (POH) posted on the web at: www.pitmanair.com/dragonfly 

NOTE for SLSA Dragonfly Aircraft, Any Changes, Alterations or Repairs not specifically covered in the 

Dragonfly Maintenance Manual, REQUIRES a Letter of Authorization (LOA) from Pitman Air.

NOTE: SLSA aircraft must have an LOA “Letter of Authorization” from Pitman Air for Alterations and/or 

Modifications in the aircraft records to maintain their Special Airworthiness Status. Failure to do so may

cause the Airworthiness status to revert to Experimental.

7.3 Operational and Service Difficulty Reporting Form

The Maintenance Manual and Pilot Operating Handbook for the Bailey Moyes Dragonfly by Pitman Air 

contain a “Safety of Flight & Service Difficulty Report Form”. 

NOTE: Reporting of such difficulties is mandatory for SLSA and Kit ELSA produced by Pitman Air. In order to 

be included in the Dragonfly Network and Safety Bulletin network for a Transitioned ELSA and have the Tow 

System Authorization, the Dragonfly owner must contact Pitman Air and conform to the maintenance 

requirements outlined in the current manuals. 
16

Safety of Flight & Service Difficulty Report Form

Mail to: Pitman Air, 1840 Airport Blvd., Red Bluff, CA 96080 AND/OR Online at: www.pitmanair.com/dragonfly/ (print and mail)

Check One Item of Concern Safety of Flight Service Difficulty

Reporting Party Contact Information

Name

Address

City

ST

Zip Code

Day Phone #

FAX #

email address

Check Appropriate

Owner Operator LSRI LSRM A&P

 Other Explain:

Aircraft Specific Information

Aircraft Information Engine Information

Make Make

Model Model

Serial Number Serial Number

N-Number Gearbox Ratio

Date of Mfg. Propeller Mfg

Propeller Serial #

Date of Problem Discovery dd/mm/yyyy

Description:

Comments

Signature_________________________________________-Date_______________________dd/mm/yyyy

End of Master Operating Instructions