Ok, let’s take this from the very beginning. So maybe you are interested and would like to learn a bit more about flying a Powered Para Glider. As in every endeavor you take, research will be your friend. Check it all out in detail, the good and the bad. Seek out people that are currently flying. Ask lots of questions – most everyone involved loves to talk paramotor.
My first step usually starts on the digital side of things. Today’s information age makes finding what you need super easy. By far, the easiest and most cost-effective “as in FREE” way would be to check out YouTube. For starters, search for “PPG” or “Powered Para Gliding”. You will be rewarded with countless videos on the subject. Everything from Training & must have Equipment, to simple Solo Flights, Fly-Ins, and some impressive Cross Country Flights. You can narrow down your search and see what training would be like. Check out the different ways you can launch: Foot or Trike/Quad. Dig a bit deeper, and see what equipment is needed: engines, propellers, fuel, wings, harnesses, reserves, tools, etc. Depending on what equipment you decide on, you may also need a trailer to haul and store equipment. As a bonus, an enclosed trailer can also double as a camper when out at the field or at fly-ins.
Some of my favorite YouTube channels I subscribe to are: Kyle O’Glee, Paramotor NC, PPG Gorilla, AviatorShow (impressive video editing), ripman ridin, Mark Huneycutt, Matt Minyard, Paramotor Mahoney.
So, what did you think? Did you get a taste of what this hobby is all about? Want to take it to the next step? I know I did!!
It’s a rabbit hole that can get pretty deep. As you can see, there are plenty of great videos. Pick the ones that interest you most or watch them all. Warning: you may find yourself binge watching for hours on end!!! But don’t stop there, search using your favorite internet search engine too – Duck Duck Go, Bing, Yahoo, Google. Research the many Companies that provide the necessary equipment. Are there any Training schools in your state? How about some nice flying sites? Local PPG flyers? Any clubs around you or within a reasonable driving distance? A club would be a major bonus and a gold mine of information.
So now that I’m hooked, I moved on to the next step. Finding some good books or other media that can dig-in a bit deeper. Stay tuned for the next installment coming soon!
If you have any questions or comments, scroll down & leave them below. You can also follow along on my Facebook page @ 3xAcres