“A
Paramotor is an aeroplane that can fit into the boot of
your car”
What
is paramotoring?
Paramotoring was invented around 1990
when paragliders realised that adding a backpack motor would
enable them to take off from level ground so they would
not have to look for hills and ridges to launch themselves.
Thus the paramotor was born. The Paramotor provides thrust,
and thereby enables pilots to gain height giving them versatility
so that they can fly longer distances cross country or just
go in search of thermals.
How
does paramotoring work?
As you run forward with the chute
behind you the combination of the air from the motor, wind
and forward motion will inflate the chute to float above
your head. When you increase the throttle you will lift
off smoothly. This can all be done without the help of anyone
else.
How
do I fly it and how far can I go?
You
use hand controls (rather like the toggles on a parachute)
to steer your paramotor right and left and throttle up and
down to climb and descend. Usually you can travel between
1 and 3 hours at speeds up to 50mph, depending on your equipment.
What
weather conditions can I fly in?
Anything up to 15mph winds, depending
on your experience. That’s why we recommend learning
in the balmy Cyprus climate or at our new center in Thailand.
Do
I need a licence to fly a paramotor?
No, but it is important that you receive
proper training so that you can fly safely and not cause
injury to either yourself or others. There are regulations
that have to be followed in the UK, which come under aviation
law. These are to do with equipment, that as a pilot you
have to carry, where you can fly and how paramotors are
flown and launched.
Is
it Safe?
As long as you are sensible and follow
the training you are given. Even if the paramotor engine
stops the canopy will continue to fly and can be directed
like a normal paraglider. Many pilots carry an emergency
reserve parachute as a precaution.
How
much does it cost?
