Paragliding Tandem Flight : everything you need to know for your first flight
For those wishing to discover paragliding, a first flight is the ideal activity. There are a multitude of them, each with its own price. It can be hard to keep track! That's why we've put together a few guides to paragliding, to answer any questions you may have.
WHERE TO GO FOR A FIRST PARAGLIDING FLIGHT ?
If you want to be sure of choosing the right place for your first paragliding tandem flight in France, it's best to choose a mountainous region and a recognized flying site, so as to find easy access and optimal weather conditions. Here, you'll find a number of well-known spots, such as Saint-Hilaire-du-Touvet (birthplace of the famous Coupe Icare) and Lake Annecy, among the most beautiful of all. What's more, depending on where you're staying or vacationing, you're sure to find a spot closer to home where you can experience the thrill of a tandem paragliding jump.
WHEN SHOULD YOU TAKE YOUR FIRST PARAGLIDING FLIGHT ?
As far as the ideal time to take your first tandem flight is concerned, we generally advise you to do so between April and October, to take advantage of the best weather conditions. Of course, this will always be subject to the day's meteorological and aerological hazards, but these are the periods when conditions are most favorable. During the day, it's best to fly between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., as this is often when the thermal updrafts are most active, making for a wonderful flight! So you can enjoy the pleasure of flying.
HOW MUCH DOES A PARAGLIDING TANDEM FLIGHT COST ?
The price of a paragliding first flight generally ranges from 75 euros for children's first flights, to 150 euros for longer flights. Short flights generally take 10 minutes and cost an average of 90 euros. For classic 15 to 20-minute flights, the price is usually around one hundred euros, and for longer flights lasting 30 to 40 minutes, the price is usually around 150 euros. You'll also find sensation flights, during which the pilot introduces you to aerobatics with a few acrobatics. These shorter flights usually cost around a hundred euros, and are guaranteed to give you new thrills.
Don't forget that your paragliding instructor can immortalize your paragliding experience by filming you from the harness ! This option generally costs around 30 euros, depending on the FFVL-approved paragliding school.
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM/MAXIMUM WEIGHT FOR A PARAGLIDING TANDEM FLIGHT ?
The maximum weight for taking off and flying a paraglider depends very much on the structure where you are going to do your paragliding tandem flight. If you weigh more than 90 kilos, we advise you to contact the school before booking your flight. The maximum weight for a tandem paraglider depends not only on the passenger's morphology, but also on that of the qualified instructor. It may also depend on the weight of the equipment in flight. Depending on the school, the maximum weight can be as much as 110 to 120 kilos.
The same applies to the minimum weight. We advise you, especially if you are a child, to contact your school to find out the minimum age and the minimum weight accepted for the flight. Depending on this, the school may give you a specific time slot to ensure good aerological and flying conditions.
PREPARING FOR A PARAGLIDING TANDEM FLIGHT EXPERIENCE
If you're wondering how to prepare for your first paragliding flight, here are a few basic tips to give you an idea of what you need to prepare for an unforgettable experience.
First of all, as far as the weather is concerned, your paragliding school will keep you informed as to whether or not your flight will take place. However, it goes without saying that you'll need to adapt your clothing to the season. In winter, opt for warm clothing and a good pair of gloves.
Once on site, we'll welcome you and explain how your paragliding experience works. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to ask the experienced instructors on site. Flight instructions will be given to you by your instructor just before and during the flight. Throughout the flight, your instructor will be there to guide you, and will never make a maneuver you don't want to make. All that's left for you to do is let yourself be carried along under your glider.
HOW TO DRESS FOR PARAGLIDING ?
Wondering what to wear for your paragliding tandem flight ? Go for classic sports shoes or hiking boots. In most cases, plan to dress in pants, a sweater and a jacket for the flight. If you don't need anything, your instructor will tell you, and you'll just have to leave your excess gear at the reception desk. For winter flights, a ski suit will do. And don't forget your sunglasses, no matter what! And don't forget that you can fly with your prescription glasses without any problem.
AT WHAT AGE CAN YOU TAKE A FIRST PARAGLIDING FLIGHT ?
The question of the age limit for a paragliding flight is not really an issue. In many cases, paragliding schools accept children from the age of 4 or 5. As far as the upper limit is concerned, as long as you're healthy enough to walk and run in complete peace of mind, you won't be limited.
In any case, if you have the slightest doubt, don't hesitate to contact your hang-gliding school to find out what is and isn't possible.
At Air et Aventure, we offer a wide range of two-seater paragliding lessons for all ages. From 5 to 99 years old, you can fly over our beautiful region and discover the joys of flying over the cliffs. Take-off from Saint-Hilaire-du-Touvet and landing in Lumbin. Our team of experienced instructors will give you the best possible guidance, whatever your age! Don't hesitate to contact us !
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