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What is powered paragliding?
Powered paragliding also called paramotoring or PPG is
exciting new sport that allows people to fly with the least amount of
training, equipment and money required. If you want to fly like a bird this
type of aviation is for you. A Powered Paraglider is a Paraglider with a
motor added, allowing launch from level ground. The motor can be a backpack
style motor, with launch and landing on the pilot's feet, or on a "trike" or
"cart".
What's the difference between a Powered Paraglider (PG),
Parasailing and a Powered Parachute(PPC)?
PPG is a Powered Paraglider, as described above. Foot launched or wheel
launched, it has a motor between 15-30 horsepower, and a high performance
elliptical wing, the same as used for unpowered paragliding. Control is via
hand operated "brakes" on the wing. No license required.
Parasailing is
getting towed around the harbor behind a boat. In this case you're a
passenger on a thrill ride, not a pilot.
PPC is
Powered Parachute. These are much larger, usually with a much less efficient
rectangular parachute (although elliptical wings are becoming more popular
nowadays), always wheel launched, and 40-70 horsepower. Control is via foot
operated steering bars which operate the wing brakes. Flying PPC most likely
will require having a Sport Pilot License issued by the FFA.
Is powered paragliding safe?
Just like any other sport, there is some risk involved.
Like many sports, powered paragliding safety depends largely on the pilot.
Pilots who like to make radical maneuvers at low altitude, or who choose to
fly in stronger weather conditions, are more likely to get hurt than pilots
who just fly around smoothly in gentle conditions. That said, what limited
statistics are available seem to indicate that PPG is about as safe (in
terms of fatalities per flight hour) as general aviation. Minor injuries
(sprained ankle, etc.) are doubtless more likely. Compared to other forms of
ultralight aviation, you're probably more likely to have a minor injury, but
less likely to get killed. This would make it more dangerous than driving in
your car, but safer than riding a motorcycle on public roads. Bear in mind
that when flying, you are responsible for your own safety, unlike a
motorcyclist who is at the mercy of other idiot drivers on the highway.
Do I need a license to fly a
powered paraglider?
No, but training is highly recommended.
How long does it take to get PPG trained?
It depends on the individual. Most instructors recommend
5-7 days of training. This can be spread over several weekends, though
waiting on weather can complicate things. By far the most difficult part of
learning to fly is handling the wing on the ground, which takes hours of
practice to become really proficient, and must be mastered before the first
attempt to actually fly. Existing pilots of other types of aircraft may be
able to move quickly through some parts of the training (regulations,
aerodynamics), but the basic flying of a PPG is completely different from
any other aircraft, with little transfer from other types of flying.
Can I take-off on a flat surface?
Yes. Any large field will do for powered paragliding
flights.
Can I take-off on my own?
Yes.
Can I take passengers?
No. See FAR 103
What distance do I need to take-off and
land?
Usually between 10 to 50 feet.
At what altitude can I fly?
You can fly you powered paraglider one foot off the ground or at 18000 feet.
It is up to you, but make sure you comply with local air traffic
regulations. Most people fly under 500 feet.
How fast does a powered paraglider fly?
Up to 25 mph if there is no wind.
How far can I go on powered paraglider?
It depends on your paramotor model. Approximately 25 miles if you have to
land back where you took off. 50 miles if you fly down wind.
At what ground speed does the paramotor fly?
This depends on the paraglider model and the wind speed.. Anywhere from 20 -
25 mph if there is no wind.
How do I inflate paraglider?
A run or wind if there is any forces air into the open frontal cells of the
paraglider, which in turn pressurizes the wing, giving it it's shape.
What do I do if the motor stops?
You glide down for landing. Most landings are done without power for safety
reasons anyway.
How long can I fly my paramotor with a full tank of gas?
Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours depending on the motor and size of fuel tank.
What if I am not strong enough to carry a
paramotor on my back?
You can attach the paramotor to light weight trike
(chassis with 3 wheels) and instead of carrying the weight you will sit in
the aircraft on take off.
Is the paramotor easy to transport?
Paramotor cages are designed to be dismantled into 3 or 4 parts in
approximately 3 minutes. You can easily transport your paramotor in the
trunk or back seat of your car.
Do I need airport to store my personal aircraft?
No. Garage, basement or room closet will do.
How
much does it cost?
A new motor costs between US$3800 - $6500. A new wing costs between $3000 -
$4000. The cost of a complete package (motor and wing) may or may not
include training (or a discount on training).
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