Please keep in mind this is a headcanon and I only possess a basic understanding of aerodynamics.

I drew this diagram during Science. It should count as schoolwork.

Anyway, transcript time because it's hard to read my notes:

1. Straps are connected to top of elytra, arms control wings opening and closing (straps on both biceps and lower neck). Extra: keep in mind the neck strap is relatively loose and merely optional. It is there as a precaution, an extra stabilizer for the elytra on your back.

2. Harness + buckles keep elytra on correctly (torso). Extra: the buckles are adjustable. I'm not a monster.

3. ABLE-BODIED ORIENTED. This is.... kind of obvious. Leg function is very important for flight - like our version of tailfeathers.

4. FIREWORKS: Aim them in the opposite direction (of the way) you want to be repelled (I meant propelled dangit). Pull-string fireworks are recommended for easiest launching. They create a burst of force that propels you in the opposite direction of where they were fired. Wear your ear plugs unless you want hearing damage!!

5. ELYTRA ARE GLIDING INSTRUMENTS! You can't glide with a break between the wings! There's a sheet of clear elastic between (the halves of the) elytra that stretches as you widen the wing distance. Extra: wing distance is widened as you widen your arms, remember that.

EXTRA:

6. Elytra are strong. Every part of it. They have to be, if you're gliding through the air, stretching it at will.

7. Your biceps control the elytra, so you have to be careful while flying. Your forearms, however, are free to do whatever.

8. By moving different parts of your body, you can change the direction you're going in. Angle your head, open/close your arms, all of that stuff.

If there's anything missing or should be in here, please let me know, I want this to be as accurate as possible