Powered paragliding

Powered paragliding, also known as paramotoring or PPG, is a type of ultralight aviation. In this activity, the pilot wears a special motor on their back, called a paramotor. This motor gives enough power to take off using a paraglider.

One great thing about powered paragliding is that the pilot can start flying alone. They do not need any help, even when the air is still and the ground is flat. This makes it an exciting and easy way to enjoy the skies!

Description

Powered paragliding, also called paramotoring, is a fun way to fly that needs very few rules. In many places, like the United States, you don’t need a special license to try it. People like this kind of flying because it feels very open, the equipment is easy to carry, and it doesn’t cost much to keep it working.

When flying, powered paragliders move between 15 and 50 mph, which is about 24 to 80 km/h. They can fly very low, almost touching the ground, or up high to about 18,000 ft, which is more than 5,500 [m], if they have permission. It’s important to be careful because flying in strong winds or bumpy air can be risky, especially for new pilots.

The motor part, called a paramotor, weighs between 45 to 90 lb, which is about 20 to 41 kg. The pilot holds it when they start flying. After a short run of about 10 ft, the wing lifts the motor and the pilot off the ground. Once in the air, the pilot sits under the big wing, like hanging in a swing. They control the flight using toggles for the brakes and a throttle to change the motor’s speed. Some equipment also has special tools to help change the angle of the wing for faster or slower flying. Pilots mainly use the brake toggles and moving their weight to turn and change direction.

Uses

Paragliders are mostly used for fun. They can also help in other ways. In the military, special soldiers sometimes use them to move quietly. Some countries use them to watch their borders.

People use paragliders to help in emergencies, guide animals, take pictures from above, and check on places. But they need good weather, so they can't replace regular airplanes for most jobs. Many countries have rules that stop them from being used for money in most ways.

Safety and regulations

Powered paragliding is safer than riding motorcycles but more dangerous than being a passenger in a car. Most injuries happen when a pilot hits a spinning propeller or flies into something unexpected. Some countries keep records of accidents.

Pilots often carry a special backup parachute that can open very quickly to help in dangerous situations. Learning to fly safely takes time and practice. Training usually takes between five and 15 days, and can include lessons on the ground, being pulled along, flying on small hills, or flying with an experienced pilot.

Rules for flying powered paragliders vary by country. In the United States, pilots follow simple rules set by the FAA. They don’t need a special license, but they must fly in safe areas away from crowds and cannot carry passengers without extra permission. In the United Kingdom, pilots must follow rules set by the Civil Aviation Authority. These aircraft must meet certain weight and speed limits to be flown without registration or a license.

Associations

In the U.S., the sport is supported by the US Powered Paragliding Association (USPPA). Instructors there are mainly certified by the USPPA.

The US Ultralight Association (USUA) and Aero Sports Connections (ASC) also offer some help.

In the United Kingdom, the sport is supported by the British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association.

Globally, "APPI Power" helps with training and setting standards for pilots and instructors.

Confusion with powered parachutes

Main article: Powered parachute

Sometimes people mix up powered paragliders and powered parachutes because they can look alike when flying. But they are different.

Powered parachutes have wheels and are steered with the feet. Powered paragliders usually do not have wheels and are steered with the hands. If there is a problem with a powered paraglider, the wing can still hold the pilot and motor because it is attached to the harness. Powered paragliders use smaller engines and follow special rules. They often have a thinner, shaped wing to help them fly better.

World records

Determined by the FAI, RPF1 category.

• The world altitude record for powered paragliders (RPF1TM) is 7,589m (24,898 ft). Ramon Morillas Salmeron from Spain set it on 19 September 2009.
• A well-known altitude record attempt was made by Bear Grylls on 14 May 2007 over the Himalayas. Engine problems stopped the climb.
• The farthest distance in a straight line without landing is 1,105 km (687 mi). Ramon Morillas Salmeron flew this distance on 23 April 2007.
• Harley Milne crossed the United States from San Diego to Jacksonville Florida in December 2020. He completed the trip in 8 days.

Determined by Guinness World Records

• The longest journey by powered paraglider is 9,132 km (5,674.35 mi). Miroslav Oros from the Czech Republic flew this distance between 1 April 2011 and 30 June 2011.
• The second longest journey by powered paraglider is 8,008 km (4,976 mi). Benjamin Jordan from Canada flew this distance on 24 August 2009.
• Harley Milne was the first paramotor pilot to fly in all 50 US states. He did this in 215 days.

Images

Launch of a powered paraglider

A powered paraglider in flight

A tandem powered paraglider

Powered paraglider landing

Power paraglider trike launch