Learning to fly can be a daunting task, especially if you are an absolute beginner. From adjusting to the equipment, understanding the mechanics of flying, and actually taking to the skies, there are many aspects to consider and master.
At our flight school, we understand the challenges of learning to fly and strive to make the process as enjoyable, safe, and effective as possible. That is why we have developed a unique teaching method that we call " learn to run before you fly".
What is "" learn to run before you fly"" ?
"Learn to run before you fly" is precisely what it sounds like. It is a method where we gradually introduce every new step, piece, and part of flying before your first flight. Unlike other traditional teaching methods, this approach ensures that students are familiar with the equipment and procedures before they take their first flight. By doing this, we aim to make the first flight experience easier, safer, and less stressful.
How Does It Work ?
Before your first flight, you will spend time with the motor on, the throttle in your hand, and the helmet and radio in your ear. We will introduce you to each component of the flight, explain how it works and guide you on how to handle and use it effectively. You will also go through a training on the regulations and safety procedures for flying. Once you have learned the "ropes" and feel confident handling the equipment, you will be ready to take your first flight. By taking this approach, our students are already comfortable with what they need to do before they take off and don’t have to worry about anything except taking their feet off the ground.
Benefits of the Introduction of " learn to run before you fly".
The " learn to run before you fly" method of teaching has several benefits that makes it an excellent option for new students. Here are some of the advantages:
1. Safety
Safety is our top priority and we believe that this approach provides the safest fly training. By familiarizing you with the equipment and procedures, we minimize the risk of accidents during your training and with pilots who have received this training, accidents have been significantly reduced.
2. Eases Anxiety
Many aspiring pilots feel anxious about the idea of flying. Being in control of a complex machine and taking off into the sky can be a daunting prospect. However, by introducing every step before your first flight, we help ease those feelings of anxiety by building your confidence and preparing you for what to expect.
3. Increases Confidence
Learning to fly can be a significant challenge but by introducing every step, we aim to make the process as smooth as possible. Our approach ensures that our students are confident with their skills before takeoff, making it easier for them to enjoy the experience of flying.
In conclusion, the " learn to run before you fly" method is an effective and safe approach to learning to fly. By gradually introducing each piece of equipment and every new step, it makes the learning process more manageable and helps prepare you for your first flight. By reducing stress and anxiety and increasing confidence, we aim to make flying a fun and enjoyable experience.
We offer training programs for new pilots who want to learn this exciting and complex sport fast, slow, thoroughly and as well as advanced training for pilots who want to improve their flying skills.
These training programs are divided into:
- Introductory Tandem flight
- One Day Training
- Basic Training
- Full Training
- Modular Training
- Advanced Training.
Our training takes 1-14 training days which depend on training package of your choice and can be split in 2-8 weeks. We are not interested in 3 days wonders and we believe if student have more time to absorbe the material then he or she becomes safer pilot.
Our typical training day starts 11am and we go on till 5pm
Paragliding Unlimited is proud member of USPPA and is one of the USPPA recommended schools.
Paragliding Unlimited use enhanced USPPA Syllabus and we have three major rules:
- Safety
- Quality
- Fun
We prefer one on one or two students class but we can handle up to 5 people per training class and in some special occasions up to 6 . At Paragliding Unlimited we ‘re definitely don’t like things to be rushed and our goal is good, solid and safe product / pilot.
Paragliding Unlimited is St. Louis Missouri based PPG/PG ( Powered Paragliding/Paragliding ) school and most of the training is conducted at Gateway Airpark located in Pierron Illinois which is the most friendly pilot place we ever experienced.
Student - Basic Training (3-4 days)
Elements typicaly included in our program are:
- How to inflate wing
- How to control wing
- Launching aircraft
- Flight
- Maneuvers
- Safe landing
Pilot - Full Training (6-8 days)
Here are just few things what our students learn in full training:
- Principles and construction of glider
- Basic aviation rules
- About weather
- How to inflate wing
- How to control wing
- How to choose proper equipment
- Selecting right terrain
- Preflight safety
- Launching aircraft
- Flight
- Maneuvers
- Safe landing
- Malfunctions
- Emergencies
- Physics in flight
....and many more
Customized Training
This training program is for students that like to progress throut learning process from day to day and have more control over decision how much training they like to attend to.
Advanced Training
Advanced training is for pilots who like to increase their PPG knowledge and skills and who have at least 50 hours of flying time on their belt or logbook. How it works. You call your instructor and discuss with him what would you like to learn or ask for suggestions.
Cost of training:
- Introductory Tandem Flight $255 (30 minutes )
- Basic Training $2,645 (4 days)
- Full training without equipment purchase $3,400 per 6-8 days training package
- Full training with purchase of equipment (paramotor + glider) $3,100 per 6-8 days training package
- Customized training $605 per day
- Advanced training is $552 per day {can be devided between students) with own (pilots) equipment.
Cost of rentals:
- Paraglider $15/hour
- Paramotor $50/hour (we charge only for engine running time)
- Trike 0r Quad $5/hour