"Paragliding: Soaring High in the Sky"

"Experience the Thrill of the Art of a Free Flight "

Introduction
Welcome to the world of paragliding! Today, we
embark on an exhilarating journey through the skies.

Paragliding isn't just a sport; it's an adventure that

allows us to defy gravity and experience true freedom.

Let's explore the fundamentals, techniques, and joys

of paragliding together.
What is Paragliding?
Developed in the late 20th century, paragliding evolved from
parachuting and hang gliding.

Paragliding is a form of unpowered flight where pilots use a

lightweight, foot-launched glider.

Unlike traditional parachutes, Paragliders have a flexible wing

structure that enables controlled flight.

It's a fusion of adrenaline and serenity, offering a unique

perspective of the world from above.
History of Paragliding
Paragliding traces its roots back to the 1940s and 1950s
when individuals experimented with ram-air parachutes.

The first modern Paragliders emerged in the 1960s and

1970s, but it wasn't until the 1980s that the sport gained
popularity, pioneers like Domina Jalbert and David Barish
laid the groundwork for modern paragliding.

The sport experienced significant advancements in the

1980s and 1990s, leading to its widespread popularity today.
Equipment Overview
 Paragliding equipment includes the canopy (wing), harness, reserve parachute,
helmet, and variometer.

 The wing is made of lightweight, durable fabric and is inflated by the wind to provide
lift. Canopies come in various sizes and designs, each tailored to different flying
conditions and pilot skill levels.

 The harness attaches the pilot to the wing and provides comfort and safety during
flight.

 A helmet is essential for protecting the pilot's head in case of a crash or rough
landing.

 Safety gear is paramount in paragliding to mitigate risks and ensure a safe flying
experience.
How Paragliding Works
 Paragliders utilize the same aerodynamic principles as other aircraft
to generate lift and control their direction and speed.

 By running off a slope or launching from a high point, pilots inflate

the wing and take off.

 Pilots harness rising air currents, such as thermals and ridge lift, to
gain altitude and prolong flight duration.

 Once in the air, pilots use controls to steer, adjust speed, and navigate
through the sky. Steering is achieved by manipulating brake lines
attached to the trailing edge of the wing.
Types of Flights
Paragliding offers a variety of flight experiences, including:

 Ridge soaring: Flying along the ridge of a hill or mountain,

using updrafts to stay aloft.
 Thermal flying: Climbing to higher altitudes by riding
columns of warm air called thermals.
 Cross-country flying: Traveling long distances by using
thermals and other lift sources to stay airborne.
 Acro flying: Performing aerobatic maneuvers such as spins,
loops, and stalls.
Training and Safety
 Proper training is essential for aspiring Paragliders to learn flying
techniques, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.

 Pilots undergo extensive training to learn the skills needed to fly safely.

 Training typically includes ground handling practice, tandem flights, and

supervised solo flights.

 Safety measures include pre-flight checks, assessing weather conditions,

and adhering to airspace regulations.

 Despite these precautions, paragliding carries inherent risks, and pilots

must always be vigilant and prepared for emergencies.
Types of Paragliding
 Paragliding offers various disciplines to suit different preferences and
skill levels:

 Cross-country flying for adventurous pilots seeking long-distance flights.

 Acro (aerobatic) flying for thrill-seekers performing maneuvers and stunts.

 Speed flying for adrenaline junkies who enjoy high-speed descents close to
the ground.

 Tandem flying for passengers to experience paragliding under the

guidance of a certified pilot.
Notable International Paragliding Destinations
• Explore breathtaking locations around the world that are renowned for
Paragliding:
 Interlaken, Switzerland: Nestled in the Swiss Alps, offering stunning mountain vistas.

 Oludeniz, Turkey: Known for its picturesque coastline and favorable flying conditions.

 Queenstown, New Zealand: A paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts with diverse
flying sites.

 Pokhra, Nepal: Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, providing awe-inspiring aerial

views.

 Valle de Bravo, Mexico: A vibrant flying community and scenic landscapes make it a
popular destination.
History of paragliding in India
Paragliding in India has a relatively recent history
compared to some Western countries, but it has quickly
gained popularity as a thrilling adventure sport.

Paragliding, as a sport, started gaining attention in India

during the late 1980s and early 1990s. It emerged as an
offshoot of mountaineering and became popular among
adventure enthusiasts seeking new challenges in the
skies.
Early Years:
Paragliding gained popularity in Billing, a small village in
Himachal Pradesh, is often credited as the birthplace of
paragliding in India. Today, paragliding continues to thrive as
one of the most sought-after adventure activities in India.

The early years of paragliding in India were marked by the

efforts of a few pioneering individuals who introduced the
sport and established flying sites in various regions across the
country. These enthusiasts often faced challenges in terms of
equipment availability, training facilities, and regulatory
support.
Establishment of Flying Sites:
 One of the key milestones in the history of paragliding in India was the
establishment of dedicated flying sites in different parts of the country.

 Places like Bir Billing, Manali and Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh,

Kamshet and Panchgani in Maharashtra, Nainital and Tehri in Uttarakhand,
Vagamon in Kerala, Arambol in Goa had emerged as popular destinations for
paragliding, offering favorable weather conditions and picturesque
landscapes.

 In the Northeast Indian region, places like Dirang, Mechuka and Sepa in
Arunachal, Dimapur and Kapamodzu Peak in Nagaland, Sercchip and
Durtlang in Mizoram, Kharkutta, Smith Valley and Nongjrong in Meghalaya
and Bodoland, Dimahasao and Guwahati in Assam had emerged as
successful Paragliding sites in recent time.
Organized Events and Competitions:
 As the sport gained momentum, organized events and competitions
started taking place in India. These events not only provided a platform for
pilots to showcase their skills but also contributed to the promotion and
growth of paragliding as a mainstream sport.

 Cross Country Competitions had been organized in Bir (PWC) and

Panchgani (PPWC).

 Accuracy Competitions had been organized in Bir (PWC), Mechuka, Sepa,

Bodoland, Kharkutta, Smith Valley, Dharamshala, Vagamon and Tehri.

 Acro Festival was organized in Tehri.

Government Support and Recognition:
Over the years, there has been an increasing
recognition of paragliding as a significant adventure
sport in India.

Government bodies like the Indian Mountaineering

Foundation (IMF), the Aero Club of India and
Paragliding Association of India (PAI) have played a
role in promoting paragliding and ensuring safety
standards.
Growing Popularity and Commercialization:

Paragliding has witnessed a surge in popularity among

adventure enthusiasts, both domestic and
international.

With the growth of adventure tourism in India,

paragliding has become a key attraction in many
tourist destinations, contributing to the local economy
and employment generation.
Current Scenario:
Today, paragliding has firmly established itself as a
popular adventure sport in India, attracting thousands
of enthusiasts every year. The country offers a diverse
range of flying sites, catering to pilots of all skill levels,
from beginners to seasoned professionals.

Overall, the history of paragliding in India reflects the

spirit of adventure and the quest for new experiences, as
well as the efforts of individuals and organizations in
nurturing and promoting this exhilarating sport.
Conclusion
 Paragliding is more than just a sport; it‘s a passion for many enthusiasts
and a way of life that fosters a deep connection with nature and a sense of
boundless freedom.

 Whether you're drawn to the thrill of flight, the beauty of nature, or the
camaraderie of the paragliding community, it's an experience like no
other.

 Whether you're a seasoned pilot or an aspiring enthusiast, the skies

beckon, inviting you to spread your wings and soar.

 So, are you ready to spread your wings and soar high in the sky? Join the
adventure of paragliding today!
Questions