What is Powered Paragliding?

 

Powered Paragliding is simply Paragliding with a motor. Typically, Paragliding requires lift from the wind pushing up hill faces or thermals that rise from the ground. Take off is normally in mountainous areas or from coastal cliffs. By adding a backpack motor ( 2-stroke ) Powered Paragliders, also called Paramotors or PPG can take off from flat land. They utilise the thrust of the propellor to push forward. 

 

 

Is there an age limit? 

The minimum age for tandem Paramotor passengers in Australia is 14 years old. There is no maximum age. Anyone under 18 years old must have their legal guardian sign the indemnity form before flying. 

 

Physical Requirement/s
 
Weight has an effect on flight performance as well as the ability of the aircraft to take off and land safely. Our current passenger weight limit is up to 100kgs. There are no height limits. As long as you can run a short distance briefly ( takeoff ) you should be fine. The take-off is the most dynamic part of the experience and does require a degree off physical effort.

​

​

Click here for a detailed break down of a forward launch

​

 

Is it normal/ok to be scared or nervous?

​

Absolutely. We are yet to come across anyone that doesn't display some nerves. Nerves are a good sign as it indicates your getting ready for the adventure ahead.  Don't worry if you're scared of heights, most of our customers are. However, once in the air, they quickly forget about this and have a ball. 

 

 

Flight duration: Takeoff & Landing

 

Our flights are generally around 20 mins but can stretch to 30 mins at the discretion of the Pilot on the day. Longer flight times can be negotiated. Flights are out and back. We take off and land from the same location. 

​

 

What happens if the engine stops in flight?

​

We fly under a tandem Paraglider so in the event that the motor stops we simply just glide down. The motor only provides thrust to go up, gravity, and the glide ratio of the paraglider brings us back down. During flight operations, our pilots are constantly scanning for safe landing spots should the engine stop. In fact, the engine is often turned off prior to landing for added safety.

 

 

Is Powered Paragliding safe?

​

All forms of aviation have associated risks. 

Powered Paragliding generally occurs in stable conditions normally early in the morning or at the coast where the sea breeze is smooth and predictable. Modern Paraglider/Paramotor wings have many safety features built-in and

pilots need to be licensed and follow relevant regulations

set out by the governing body ( SAFA ).  

 

 

Weather conditions

Powered Paragliding is a weather dependant activity and may be canceled if the weather is unsuitable (windy and or raining). Our pilots are Senior Safety Officers within the Sport Aviation Federation of Australia ( SAFA ) and they will monitor the weather in the days leading up to the day of the flight and will make the decision to fly only if it is completely safe to do so. If we are unable to fly on the day you have booked we will attempt to reschedule your booking for a day that suits you best. If you are unable to reschedule we are happy to give you a full refund.    (gift vouchers aren’t refundable).

Clothing

Your tandem operator will supply a helmet (Australian standard) and a Covid-19 hygiene kit is available upon request including disposable gloves, face mask, and hand sanitizer. Feel free to bring your own gloves/mask if you prefer. It is advisable that you dress for the season. Summer gets hot and Winter gets cold. Layering up is key. Enclosed footwear must be worn at all times.

 

Spectators / Family members

As per SAFA regulations, we require those not involved in the flight activity to remain a minimum of 25m from any Tandem operation. This includes but not limited to family, friends, and members of the general public.

​