Your Path to Training
New students typically solo after 5-7 training days, wind and weather conditions permitting.
Please note: 25 flights are required for unsupervised solo flights - this is included in our Instruction Fee - provided 25 flights are completed within 90 days from start of training.
Ground School and Waivers
Approximately 7 hours - this is our only day that is non-weather dependent. Class is conducted indoors, typically running from 0900 - 1600 with lunch break.
We cover the 1st half of the Powered Paragliding bible - including the USPPA's "Risk and Rewards" video - an entertaining (vintage) video depicting much of beginning history of our sport.
Student Takes USPPA PPG1 Online Test
Ground Handling and Kiting
Duration varies by individual, typically 12 - 20 hours of ground handling provides students with basic skills essential to launch and landing.
System Break In and Simulator
We ensure system is assembled to manufacturer specifications, then perform initial break in (2-3 hours) using high quality (Amsoil and Ethanol free fuel), measuring heat, performance, and ensuring system is solid.
Following break in we transition to Simulator where we spend another 3-4 hours adjusting harness to frame/student - followed by launch and landing drills.
Energy State Management Drills
Here we acclimate student to the power characteristics of their System. Power application, sensitivity to spool/spin, gentle application to achieve proper push - drills until student is comfortable and proficient in managing the energy state.
Power Taxi and Solo Flight
Combining skills and knowledge from the previous 4 Phases, here we utilize the paramotor as student kiting harness, acclimating to the overhead of weight and controls.
Once student is comfortable and proficient in forward inflation(s) - we add power.
Power Taxi exercises acclimate the student to the feel of wing attitude, direction, lift, via gentle runs and increasing engine power. From this step we move directly into solo flight(s)