What is Paragliding

Paragliding is both a pastime and competitive sport that makes use of assisted human flight. A paraglider is a free-flying, motorless aircraft that can be launched by the use of a foot. The pilot rests on the harness and starts propelling the vehicle by the use of foot, while running rapidly across incline boards, in hills or mountains.

How is Paragliding Done?

The pilot maneuvers the wing by shifting his or her weight and through the use of brakes that can alter the form of the end part of the wing. Aside from manipulating the suspension lines, the form of the wing can also be changed by the pressure of air going through the vents at the front part of the paraglide. As the shape changes, the pilot can as well change the course of his or her travel and can virtually go anywhere his or her heart desires provided also that the weather conditions are good.

Equipment Make Up

The wing of the aircraft is primarily made from rip-stop nylon made using special strengthening techniques. This makes the fabric extremely resistant to being torn down or being ripped apart. The wings are also put in place with the use of Kevlar lines that are strong, resistant but light-weight synthetic fiber that secures the pilots harness.

The harness is the part of the paraglide where the pilot can have either standing or sitting position and is designed to provide the most comfort and ease during paragliding. Instruments that paraglide pilots use include variometers, radios, and the advancing use of Global Positioning System (GPS) units while flying.

These instruments are used to provide safety for the pilot and enhance their flying experience by giving information on how rapidly they are rising or falling. For individuals who wish to experience the calm and peace of flying like a bird through the clear, blue sky, the investment is worth every penny.

About the Goal

The primary goal of the paraglide is to ascend on wind currents. In the history of paragliding, world records have been made as recognized by the Fdration Aronautique Internationale (FAI). On November, 14, 2007, Frank Brown, Rafael Saladini, and Marcelo Prieto made a world record for paragliding with a straight distance of 461.6 km in Duque, Brazil. On December 7, 2006, Urban Valic and Alja Valic of Slovenia reached their intended goal of a straight distance of 368.9 km in Jamestown, South Africa.

On January 6, 1993, Brandvlei of South Africa and Robbie Whittall of the United Kingdom made a record in gaining a height reaching up to 4,526 meters. The most recent record was achieved by Nevil Hulett with a record of flight beyond 500 km in South Africa on superb conditions.

In Comparison to the Others

Compared to other forms of human-assisted, motorless aircrafts such as parasailing and parachuting, one of the favorable characteristics of paragliding is that the whole wing and harness can be tucked inside a 30-pound backpack. This allows the pilot to go back to another round of flying or to carry his or her wing by checking it in as baggage in buses or airlines.

Other motorless, human-assisted aircrafts such as hang gliding, parachuting and parasailing allow the pilots to soar in the air but may provide different experiences. In hang gliding, the equipment is much heavier compared to the paraglide and must be carried by a luggage rack. In hang gliding, the pilot has to be positioned in a prone position instead of sitting in paragliding. Hang gliders, however, fly more rapid speeds and can soar higher than paragliders.

Paragliding Training

Courses and training are very important for anyone interested in learning and engaging in the sport. Fundamental techniques and flying solo can be learned within the usual 2-day introductory course on paragliding. If the person develops more interest in the sport and wants to continue paragliding, it is highly encouraged to get a certification by enrolling with advanced courses and training.

Choosing the School

When choosing a reputable school that can provide good-quality and safe instruction in the United States, look for paragliding instructors that are certified by the United States Hang Gliding Association (USHGA). If unsure about the reputability of a certain school or instructor, it is recommended to contact the United States Hang Gliding Association (USHGA) for more information.