At a glance
A first tandem paragliding flight is becoming more and more popular and attracting more and more curious people. Is it a dangerous experience?
A first tandem paragliding flight is becoming more and more popular and attracting more and more curious people.
Is it a dangerous experience?
Holidays are often the perfect time to try something new. Are you after a thrill, or simply want to take in scenery from a completely different point of view? A first tandem paragliding flight will give you an unforgettable experience.
What exactly is paragliding?
Paragliding is a descendant of the parachute. It lets you enjoy free flight, or powered flight using a paramotor — that is, a small propeller engine strapped to your back.
A descendant of the parachute... but a different thing! Paragliding is closer to air sports like hang-gliding. You don't jump out of a plane — you take off by running down a sloping strip of ground.
Paragliding requires good weather conditions (moderate wind and clear skies). A short run down a slope is all it takes to lift you into the air, seated in a harness, hanging beneath a wing.
Is a first paragliding flight open to everyone?
As the saying goes, this experience is open to everyone, "from 7 to 77".
For children's first flights, however, it's best to go for low-wind flights, so early or late in the day.
From age 7 onwards, there's no upper age limit. Nor do you need to be in top athletic shape. A first paragliding flight doesn't require a medical certificate. That said, it's a good idea to let your instructor know about any known medical contraindications, such as heart problems or pregnancy.
A first paragliding flight is also possible for people with reduced mobility!
What if I'm afraid of heights?
No need to worry: there's no vertigo once you're in flight. The sensation of vertigo comes from having a fixed reference point with the ground (horizontal or vertical). There's no such reference point when you're paragliding. You'll probably feel a bit of anxiety before take-off, but it settles very quickly once you're up in the air.
How does the flight work?
A first paragliding flight is always done in tandem. You'll take off and fly together with an instructor. You will never fly alone!
So the first step is finding an instructor. To do this, always go through official organisations (paragliding or free-flight schools, or specialist shops who can give you information about first flights). Avoid approaching an instructor directly at a take-off site. By going through official channels, your flight will always be covered by aviation third-party liability insurance and individual accident cover.
On the day of your flight
The day, time and meeting point can be changed depending on the weather, to guarantee good flying conditions and your safety.
A first flight generally lasts around twenty minutes, but allow 2 hours per session.
Budget? Between 50 and 100 euros. Payment is usually made after the flight.
Note that pick-up is arranged at the landing site, so you'll be brought back to your vehicle.
Is paragliding dangerous?
The danger is close to zero. A first flight is always done with a tandem instructor. This instructor is experienced: they know their equipment, the sites they fly over, and they usually have several years of experience.
Still, if it's any reassurance, your harness (to which you're attached during the flight) includes a reserve parachute and an airbag.
Final tips
Remember to bring warm clothing. As you climb, the temperature drops by 1°C every 100m. So wrap up, even in summer!
Wearing high-top shoes is essential to protect your ankles during take-off, and especially during landing.
Finally, you'll be required to wear a helmet. Make sure it's the right size and fasten it securely.
Where can you go for your first flight?
Paragliding is generally possible pretty much anywhere in the world. Your choice will depend on the scenery you'd like to fly over.
In Belgium, several flying sites are listed, offering plenty of choice for a first flight. But you could also consider doing it in France, in Italy or in Spain. \
Spread your wings and enjoy the flight!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DEDrct_Ew0
Photo: ENCIK KOPI O / Shutterstock.com
