If you’re considering learning to fly paramotors, we have answers to the most frequently asked questions by aspiring pilots.
A paramotor consists of a backpack-style ultralight engine called a paramotor, which is attached to a standard paraglider wing. These paraglider wings are the same ones that are flown, without power, from hills and mountains.
Paramotoring is an easy, relatively safe, and accessible form of powered aviation. The entire aircraft fits in the trunk of a small car and can be assembled for flight within minutes.
Paramotors can be safely flown from an area as small as a soccer field. The pilot straps into the harness, lifts the engine onto their back, performs the necessary checks, starts the engine, and then glances at the laid-out glider. After opening the throttle, the pilot takes a few steps and takes off. Once airborne, they gain altitude as long as the engine power is maintained. Upon reaching the desired height, the pilot reduces the power to maintain a steady level flight.
He can now decide whether to continue flying in the local area or to embark on a cross-country flight. He maintains directional control and can turn right or left using the control line. He ascends by increasing power and descends by reducing power. Therefore, he has all the necessary maneuverability for his flight.
During landing, he reduces power or maintains the engine at idle while approaching the ground. He descends close to the surface, flares, and achieves a smooth touchdown within a few steps.
Flying speed typically ranges from 40 to 55 km/h, depending on wind conditions and wing design. Ten liters of fuel provide approximately three hours of flying time. In favorable weather, flights of over 100 km are easily achievable.
Flying time can be extended by gliding and soaring, utilizing lift from thermals or from air rising over mountains, known as ridge lift. This allows pilots to maintain or gain altitude without using the motor, thereby conserving fuel. The motor can be turned off and restarted in-flight as needed.
If the motor fails during flight, the wing essentially acts as a glider, allowing the pilot to descend gently and safely back to the ground. It is common practice to turn off the motor before beginning the landing approach. Flying a paramotor at heights between 500 and 1,000 feet above ground level is enjoyable, although these machines are capable of flying as high as 10,000 feet or more.
The most commonly used engines for foot-launch or backpack configurations are single-cylinder, 2-stroke engines with a displacement ranging from 80 to 200 cc. A complete backpack unit typically weighs less than 25 kilograms. Higher-quality models feature a tuned exhaust system, which enhances power and performance, producing approximately 22 to 25 horsepower and generating around 70 kg of static thrust. For trike-based units, engine capacities usually exceed 200 cc and can reach up to 500 cc, depending on whether they are designed for solo or tandem use.
Paragliding is an adventure sport that allows individuals to soar through the sky while suspended from a lightweight, non-motorized glider. It offers the freedom and thrill of flight, along with stunning views from above.
Book Now