Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is it?

A: A paraglider, a foot launched inflatable wing which the pilot is suspended by lines clipped into the pilots harness. Add a motor & its a powered paraglider.

Q: Do you need to be physically fit?

A: You dont have to be athletic but it does take some sweat especially when training. For example, free flying will take some hiking with your gear at most sites or foot launching a powered paraglider will require you to at least carry 45+ lbs on your back. But once airborne, flying itself is almost relaxing.

Q: How safe is it?

A: It is probably one of the most safest form of aviation, but like any extreme sport, it can be safe or dangerous as the pilot makes it.

Q: How high can you fly?

A: FAA 's legal limit is 18,000 feet MSL, again there are Airspace. In the U.S. our freedom is inspiring, we can fly just about anywhere with few restrictions. But like all freedoms, this privilege carries great responsiblity...knowing the airspace and adhering to its restrictions.

Q: Do you need a licence to fly?

A: For solo pilots in the U.S. there is no requirement for a license or rating, but there are rating requirements for certain USHPA sites. There are also requirements for tandem (two seater) flying.

Q: How long can one stay in the air?

A: Paragliding pilots can exceed 4 hours ridge or thermal soaring depending on conditions. Powered paragliding pilots can easily exceed 1.5 hrs on single tank of gas depending how much throttle is being used.

Q: What happens if your paraglider glider collapse?

A: Most paragliders are tested certified for strength & recoverying. Most modern paragliders recovers with very little input.

Q: How much does equipment cost?

A: New free flying gear would average $3600 & new Powered Paragliding Gear would average $6800. Used gear would normaly run 60% of new price.

Q: How fast does it fly?

A: It may vary on thy type of glider, size & condition. Most modern paragliders fly between 15-30 mph & some wings have been clocked a little over 40 mph on a no wind day.

Q: (PPG) What happens when the engine dies?

A: We use a paramotor to go up, but just as we are free flying, we just glide back down & flare with a few steps landing.

Q: How can I take lessons?

A: Locate a certified paraglider/powered paraglider instructor in you area or for instructions here in Sacramento, CA/Bay Area, see our lessons page.

Q: Do you jump off a cliff?

A: Maybe, if you are an extreme base jumper, but most paragliding pilots would normally launch from a steep gental slope.

Q: How much room do you need to take off & land?

A: Depending on wind conditions (light winds) 5-15 steps foot launching, (stronger winds) 1-5 steps foot launching.

Q: How much wind can you fly in?

A: Best conditions between 0-15 mph depending on skill level. > 15 mph would be pushing it.

Q: Where can you fly?

A: California has many free flying sites to enjoy from coastal to mountain sites, be aware that some sites may require you to hold a USPHA rating. Check out some California Flying Sites page for more details.
In choosing any prospective site must first be in legal airspace, & second, must match your skill level. It should not require trampling through crops, climbing fences or going beyond any "No Trespassing" signs.