Frequently Asked Questions

What is a paraglider?
A paraglider is a foot-launched aerofoil wing (canopy), usually made of rip-stop polyester and designed to be flown with wind assistance and gravity. The canopy shape is maintained by about 60 to 70 kevlar lines connected to two to four risers (nylon belts) which is attached to the harness with help of carabineers. The pilot is suspended in flight in this harness in sitting position. The ‘brake cords’ provide speed and directional control. A tandem paraglider also allows for tandem flying (double seat) with the help of two harnesses joined to the risers. The glider generally descends at about 1.2 metres per second and if, air rises faster than the descend rate a pilot soars.
How different is paragliding to sky diving in a parachute?
A paraglider is much lighter as it does not have to withstand the sudden stress and pull of opening up at high velocities like a parachute. A paraglider is inflated and is above your head before takeoff. The paraglider usually has more cells and thinner risers. A paraglider is designed for soaring flights while a parachute only descends. A paraglider can be foot-launched from a hill or lifted up by a winch.

What is the difference between a paraglider and a hang-glider?
A paraglider can fly from all location where a hang-glider can take off but not vice-versa. A hang-glider has a rigid frame, which maintains the shape of the wing, and the pilot usually flies in a prone position. A paraglider’s canopy shape is maintained by air pressure and the pilot is suspended in a sitting position. The hang-glider is capable of flying at much higher speeds than a paraglider.

Who can learn Paragliding?
Anyone- who is adventurous, medically and physically fit, above 16 years of age, weighs more than 35 kg can take up this sport under proper guidance.

What are the training timings?
The timing is dependent on weather. Early mornings are preferred because the weather remains cool and consistent with safety. On the first day the ground training starts at 8:00 am and continues till about 11:00 am followed by theory session before lunch. Flying training timings are from 8:00 am to 11:00 am in the mornings and 3:00pm to 6:00 pm in the evening. Time spent on the hills depends on the weather conditions generally around 4 to 5 hours each session.

What about people with little time to spare?
There are weekend courses for busy people and college going students. Just that it takes a few more days to complete the course at no extra cost.

What else should I know?
During the time of enrollment you are required to submit two I-card size photographs and sign an Indemnity bond along with the course fees.

After completion of the Basic course you can continue practicing flying by paying an advance of Rs.2500/- for increment of every 5 flights. The duration of each flight could be anywhere between 5 mins to half an hour.
Before you sign up for the Paragliding course it is recommended that you should have a Personal Accident Insurance Policy for details contact the Instructors.

The Paragliding training is conducted round the year at pre-specified dates – except during monsoons.
Special customised courses are also arranged at any place in India, for groups of five or more people, subject to operational viability.

On request we organise Joyrides to interested people who would like to experience the thrill of flying. Joy riding is done with the help of a two-seater glider flown by an experienced Instructor.

We have the facilities to come closer to your place for organising group Joy rides provided you can locate a huge open ground (at least 600 mtrs long and 50 mtrs broad) without any obstructions like trees or power lines running across.

We can also conduct theory classes, exams, workshops on special aviation subjects and organise flying camps.
How much does a paraglider cost?
In India, an imported paraglider (canopy and harness) can be bought for Rs 70,000-plus. Cheaper second-hand imported gliders are also available but this necessitates careful selection. Beginners are advised to use club gliders for a few flights. Flying experience enables them to home in on a glider best suited to their needs.

What is the risk involved?
Any adventure sport has its risks. We have trained over a 1000 people without any serious incidents, there were a few cases where people sprained their ankles. In extreme cases and advance flying some people have lost their lives. If this sport was dangerous it would have banned or regulated by the government.