How do you take off in that thing?
Naturally, people are very interested/inquisitive when they see our aircraft. We always
get asked a bunch of questions…….
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How far can you fly?
How heavy is it ( motor )?
How do you launch it?
Do you need a license?
How much does it cost?
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There are two (2) methods to launch a Paraglider. A reverse launch and a forward launch.
In this article let’s talk specifically about forward launching a Tandem Paraglider.
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When launching a Tandem Paramotor wing, some wind assistance is generally needed. Tandem Paragliders are big so any help during the take-off phase can greatly increase the chance of successfully running into the sky. Unlike unpoered Tandem Paraglider launches where you basically run off the side of a hill, a Powered Paraglider takeoff occurs from flat ground. Paraglider wings need air flowing over them to produce lift ( the same as when a plane gathers speed on a runway to lift off ) More speed, more lift.
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At the moment lift forces become greater than the forces of gravity, flight occurs.
When ready to launch, your pilot will ask you to stand in front of him facing the take-off ( The pilot has already laid out the glider facing into the prevailing
wind direction ) A rectangular bar ( called spreader bars ) attached to the pilot’s motor/frame is lowered over you. You will be clipped into this bar. The pilot will
give you clear, simple to follow instructions. It’s very important that you're listening closely. We understand your nerves will be a bit all over the place at this point
but listening to your Flight Instructor’s directions is vital. One final check of the wind direction and you're good to go.
You’ll be given a 3, 2, 1 go countdown.
It will feel unnatural as you begin to move forward at first. This is a crucial moment ....Your pilot will be on comms instructing you to;
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RUN RUN RUN !!!!! KEEP MOVING FORWARD!!!
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Any hesitation from the Pilot or Passenger at this time can make launching the glider that much more difficult. This is where having some wind helps. It will feel like you’re being pulled back from moving forward as the glider begins to inflate off the ground.
DON’T STOP RUNNING !!!!
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Forward momentum is key. Once the glider ascends up to overhead, your pilot will
quickly throttle up adding thrust ( motor RPM ) which in turn pushes you forward faster which increases airflow over the glider ( lift ) You’ll still be running somewhat ‘normal’ as you drive forward. Behind you, your pilot would have transitioned to a more upright position almost leaning back into the motor as this position optimises propeller thrust which aids a quicker takeoff. He will also change his run gate to a wide ‘waddle’ This is to avoid tripping on the heels of the passenger in front. This sequence occurs over the course of a few seconds. It’s not difficult or hard it's just the most dynamic ( physical ) moment of the entire Tandem Flight foot launch Experience.
You're now taxi-ing the aircraft building up enough speed to overcome gravity. The glider will begin to fly ( go up ) It will start lifting you in your harness and you may want to sit down or stop running as you think you are flying. This is a false dawn.
Run Forest Run!!!
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KEEP MOVING FORWARD!!!
Your pilot will be on comms instructing you to run until you're in the air
Sitting in your harness early before enough lift has been generated can result in an aborted takeoff. There’s little to no danger to you as the passenger if this occurs. Your pilot is ready for this. An aborted takeoff will require resetting up the paraglider and clipping into the Pilot. This delays your flight by approx. 5-10 mins
Once lift forces overcome gravity you're going flying. You’ll still be running and out of your harness but your Pilot will be sitting in his harness controlling the wing while you climb out under full thrust. Take off is also when most engine
noise is generated.
When your Pilot is satisfied that all is good, just after taking off you’ll be asked to sit back, relax and enjoy the flight. Your adrenaline is pumping and you’ll possibly feel a sense of relief as you gain altitude. Totally normal.
You're in for the most amazing experience ahead !!!
