FAQ

Powered Paragliding FAQ

Q. Is Powered Paragliding A Safe Sport?
A. Powered Paragliding has a very good safety record amongst pilots that have been properly trained by a professional. A thorough understanding of meteorology, and the dynamics of flight makes a pilot much safer than an untrained pilot.

Q. How much is a Powered Paraglider?
A. On average it will run about $7,500.

Q. How long does it take to learn?
A. Industry experts recommend 10 to 15 days of training from a certified trainer.

Q. How high can I fly?
A. As high as you want. Most of the time powered paragliders are flown between 500 to 2000 feet. The world record however is in excess of 18,000 feet.

Q. What is the speed of the paraglider?
A. 23 to 25 miles per hour. By applying brakes, the paraglider can be slowed to a fast walking pace for landing.

Q. How far do you have to run to get airborne?
A. Just a few steps will be necessary in a 10 knot breeze. However, in a calm wind condition, 10 to 20 steps may be necessary.

Q. Can anybody do it?
A. You must weigh over 100 pounds and be fairly strong to be able to carry the weight of the motor on your back. It is important to fly with the correct glider for your payload weight (your weight plus engine weight).

Q. Do I need a license?
A. Most countries regard Motorized Paragliders, Powered Paragliders or Paramotors as Ultralight Aircraft, and are subject to the rules and regulations of ultralights. A license is not required in the USA. However, we are regulated by the FAA Part 103.

Q. How long can I fly on a tank of gas?
A. Motor-ON flight time can easily exceed 2.5 hours based upon moderate throttle usage. Periods of extended full-throttle will burn fuel at a faster rate. If your motor is equipped with a starter you can shut your motor on and off as you please, gliding for hours on thermals.

Q. If the motor shut off unintentionally, would you fall out of the sky and come crashing to earth?
A. Absolutely NOT! The loss of power only limits your ability to fly level or climb. The glider will establish a slow descent rate at about a 7:1 glide ratio. That means you could fly approximately 7000 feet or more downwind while only losing 1000 feet of altitude.

Q. Do I have to wear a helmet?
A. Ultralight aircraft with open cockpits require the pilot to have a helmet.