What is Powered Paragliding

Powered paragliding, also known as paramotoring, is a form of ultralight aviation where the pilot wears a motor on his or her back (paramotor) which provides enough thrust to take off using a paraglider wing. It can be launched in still air, and on level ground, by the pilot alone — no assistance is required. In many countries, including the United States, powered paragliding is minimally regulated and requires no license.

The paramotor plays a crucial role in takeoff when launching a powered paraglider. Weighing between 40 to 80 pounds, the paramotor initially relies on human support but quickly generates enough thrust to lift the craft into the air. Once paraglider (wing) inflate by ram air and reaching an altitude of around 20 feet, control shifts to the wing, which lift the paramotor and the harnessed pilot off the ground. The pilot can then safely settle into the seat located beneath the paraglider's wing, previously folded before takeoff. Control of the powered paraglider is achieved through a set of brake toggles and a hand-held throttle. Costs for a power paraglider typically range from $6000 to $12000 USD, varying based on technological advancements and design improvements. Each year, powered paraglider technology evolves, enhancing safety and flight ease.

Powered paragliding offers a unique flying experience characterized by the ability to fly low and slow, providing a sense of freedom and connection with nature. With low equipment and maintenance costs, as well as excellent portability, enthusiasts praise the practicality and affordability of this thrilling sport. Powered paragliders typically cruise at speeds ranging from 20 to 45 mph (32 to 70 km/h) at altitudes varying from 'foot-dragging in the grass' up to 18,000 ft (5400 m), with most flights conducted under 2000 ft (700 m) above the ground.

The low forward speed, short distance take-off requirements, and the convenience of transportability make paramotoring a popular choice across the globe, offering a rewarding flying experience for enthusiasts of all levels. Whether gliding over scenic landscapes or embarking on high-altitude adventures, powered paragliding combines accessibility and excitement, making it an ideal sport for those seeking a thrilling yet practical flying experience.

The paramotor, weighing from 45 to 80 pounds (20 to 36 kg) is supported by the pilot during takeoff but then, after a brief run (typically 30 feet or 10 metres), the wing lifts the motor and its harnessed pilot off the ground. After takeoff, the pilot gets into the seat (previously folded for takeoff) and sits suspended beneath the inflated paraglider wing. Control is available using brake toggles in each hand and a hand-held throttle.

Trikes and powered parachutes

Powered paraglider can also be mounted on light-weight cart or "trike" (which may have three or four wheels) for those who prefer not to, or are unable to, foot launch. In some contries, such as the UK, adding wheels changes the craft's status and requires a license to fly. If the aircraft meets the ultralight definitions in the United States (single place, 254 pounds or less, 5 gallons fuel or less, ...), no license is required. However, if the machine has two seats, it is no longer an ultralight and is governed under the Sport Pilot rules and regulated as a light sport aircraft powered parachute which mean that the aircraft needs an N-number and the pilot must have a license.

A powered paraglider differs from a powered parachute (PPC) primarily in size, power, control method, and number of occupants. One way that a PPC ( powered parachute ) differs from a PPG (powered paraglider ) A PPG can be disassembled easily for travel. A PPC isn't as portable and typicaly need trailer or hangar for storage. Powered paragliders have smaller, more efficient and more maneuverable paragliding wings, and steer with brake toggles like sport parachutists. Powered parachutes typically use easier-to-manage but less efficient wings, have larger engines, steer with their feet, and may be able to take along passengers. There are exceptions a growing number of powered parachutes use elliptical wings, some use hand controls, and only few are light single seat aircraft that meet FAA Part 103 requirements.

License and training

Neither a license nor specific training is required in the U.S. or many other countries. But getting thorough instruction is still very important. Countries that require formal certification frequently do so through non-government ultralight organizations. Classes typically take five to 14 days. A number of techniques are employed for teaching although most include getting the student familiar with handling the wing either on small hills or on tandem flights. With special gear it is possible to take a second person but most countries, including the U.S., require some form of certification to do so.

Regulation

In most countries, paramotor pilots operate under simple rules that spare them certification requirements for pilot and gear. Those laws, however, limit where they can fly--specifying that pilots remain in sparsely populated areas where risk to other people or aircraft is limited. U.S. pilots operate under Federal Aviation Administration regulation Part 103.

Safety

Research done by the USPPA estimates that the activity is statistically safer than riding motorcycles. The most likely cause of serious injury is body contact with a spinning propeller. The next most likely cause is flying perfectly good gear into something other than the landing zone. Some pilots carry a reserve parachute designed to open in as little as 100 ft.

Associations

In the USA, the sport is represented primarily by the US Powered Paragliding Association (USPPA) which also holds an exemption allowing two-place training using foot launched paramotors. The US Ultralight Association (USUA) and ASC also offer some support. Unpowered paragliders are represented by the U.S. Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (USHPA) which distanced itself from any motorized flying in 2006. In the U.K., the sport is represented by the British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (BHPA).