Do you need a license to fly a paraglider?
The short answer is no for certain air sports. You do not need a pilot license to fly a paraglider. However, the paraglider itself does require certification under FAA’s FAR part 103, and pilots are required to follow the guidelines set by the United States Paragliding Association (USPHA) including seeking certification.
The USPHA sets standards for paragliding and provides training resources for pilots. To become certified, pilots must complete an approved training program and pass a proficiency exam. The USPHA also offers ratings for paragliders, which indicate the pilot’s level of experience and expertise.
So, while you do not need a license to fly a glider, it is still important to ensure that you are properly certified and familiar with the safety guidelines set by the USPHA, the US governing body for regulations.
What is the difference between a license and a certificate?
A license and a certificate are both types of credentials that allow you to pilot an aircraft. However, there are some key differences between the two
A license is authorization from the government that allows you to fly a certain type of aircraft. It is issued by the FAA after you pass a written test and a flight test.
A certificate, on the other hand, is an endorsement from an aviation organization, like a club or association, that allows you to fly a certain type of ultralights. Certificates are usually awarded after you have completed training with an approved aviation organization.
There is no such thing as a certified pilot’s license. You are either a certified pilot, or a licensed pilot.
What is FAR part 103?
FAR part 103 is part of the FAA code. This section of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) regulates the ultralight category of flying paramotors, paragliders, and paragliders.
To fly under 103, your ultralight must meet certain certification and rating requirements. These requirements are designed to ensure your safety while flying.
If you’re not familiar with the certification and rating process, don’t worry – we’ll go over it in detail below. But first, let’s take a look at what 103 covers.
FAR part 103 specifies the following requirements for ultralight vehicles:
- – The maximum weight of the vehicle must be less than 254 pounds.
- – The top speed of the vehicle must be 55 knots (63 mph).
- – The vehicle must be flown with a single passenger.
- – The pilot must have a minimum of 20 hours of flight time.
- – The pilot must have a certification from a recognized aviation organization (USHPA or USPPA).
To meet certification requirements, your paramotor, paraglider, or powered paragliders must pass a series of tests conducted by an aviation organization. These tests measure factors such as stability, control, and performance.
If your aircraft passes these tests, it will receive a certification from the aviation organization. This certification is your guarantee that the ultralight meets the FAA safety standards.
What is USHPA?
The United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (USHPA) is the national governing body for hang gliders and paragliding in the United States. USHPA sets safety standards for the sport and provides training and certification programs.
A rating is a certification that indicates your level of proficiency as a pilot. There are four ratings: beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert. To progress to the next level, you must pass a proficiency check with an examiner. You must have an advanced rating or higher to compete in USHPA competitions.
Why is USHPA important?
Certification through USHPA is important for flyers looking to participate in the sport safely. USHPA is responsible for setting safety standards, issuing ratings, and licensing pilots. USHPA allows flyers to participate in organized events and fly with a certified instructor.
USHPA is also important because it underwrites the insurance that allows most pilots to fly at certain designated flying sites. Without USHPA’s backing, these sites would be off-limits and people using these sites would be subject to trespassing punishable by fines or jail.
This is a self-regulated body with local clubs and chapters to aid in the advancement of the sport of foot launch paramotor pilots.
Do you need a license to fly a paramotor?
Paramotor flying is a group-regulated sport, so you are not required by law to be a licensed pilot. However, proper training is required to safely fly and navigate ever more crowded and sensitive airspace.
However, in some countries, such as the United States, you do need a certification from a recognized aviation organization affiliated with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for a paramotor pilot to fly.
The PPL or private pilot license is not specifically for paramotors; it is also used for other types of a small planes in heavier weight classes.
What is the USPPA?
The United States Powered Paragliding Association (USPPA) is the governing body for “paramotoring” in the United States.
The USPPA was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Palm Springs, California. It is a non-profit organization that oversees paramotor instruction, safety, and competition. The USPPA has three levels of certification: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. To achieve certification, pilots must pass a written test and fly with an instructor.
The USPPA is an important organization for paramotor pilots. It promotes safe flying and provides instruction and certification. The USPPA also hosts competitions, which allow pilots to test their skills and compete against others.
If you are interested in learning to fly a paramotor, the USPPA is a good place to start. Its website provides information on instruction, certification, and competitions. The USPPA is also a great resource for finding local clubs and flying events.
USPPA is a self-regulated body with local clubs and chapters to aid in the advancement of foot-launched powered paramotors and paramotor flight.
Why is the USPPA important?
The USPPA is the largest and most respected certification and rating organization for powered paragliders in the United States. It is responsible for setting safety standards and providing training and certification to pilots. The USPPA has a strong public record, and its certification program is recognized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
USPPA is important because it underwrites the insurance that allows paramotor flying by certified pilots – taking off, flying, and landing out. Without USPPA’s backing, access to private land to launch and land would be difficult, if not law-breaking, and people using these sites without permission potentially could be subject to trespassing punishable by fines or jail.
What is a private license?
A private license, or PPL, allows a person to fly a plane without remuneration. To obtain a PPL, one must pass a written test and complete a flight review. The holder of a PPL is allowed to fly any single-engine airplane during the day within certain limitations. A PPL does not allow the holder to fly commercially. A PPL is a prerequisite for obtaining a commercial license.
The PPL is not specifically for paramotors; it is also used for other types of a small planes in heavier weight classes. However, having a PPL is a good thing. Proper training under the PPL program ensures you understand airspace regulations, airspace boundaries, rules, equipment, plane safety, dangerous situations, visual flight rules, congested areas, medical certificate, that you have proper paramotoring experience. It also includes training on topics such as meteorology and aeronautical navigation.
To obtain a pilot’s license, one must be at least 17 years old and have at least 50 hours of flight time. Ten of those hours must be in a plane completed with instruction. The written test covers areas such as aerodynamics, weather, navigation, and aircraft systems. It is time-consuming to obtain this rating, but it aligns with the law promulgated by the FAA.
Privileges granted by a PPL are limited to daytime flying within certain distances from an airport. The holder of a PPL may not fly in bad weather or take passengers for compensation. A PPL is also not valid for flying in airspace where air traffic control is required.
A PPL is valid for two years after it is issued. To keep your rating current, the holder must complete a flight review every two years.
What about tandem flights?
Tandem pilots are certified and rated in the same way as solo pilots. However, a tandem flight instructor is required to take additional training and again a special rating. This is because while flying tandem, the pilot must not only fly the aircraft but also act as a guide for the passenger.
Tandem flights are a great way to experience the thrill of flight for first-time passengers. They can also be a fun way to share an adventure with a friend or loved one. Tandem flights can be performed in both paragliders and paramotors, but due to the extra weight of the passenger, paramotoring is generally considered to be safer.
Insurance for tandem flights is slightly different from standard aviation insurance. Most tandem pilots carry liability insurance, which covers any damage or injury that may be caused to the passenger. This is important, as passengers often do not have their insurance.
Can I fly anywhere?
In the United States, air space is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Several regulations apply to air space, including restrictions on flying in certain areas and requirements for obtaining authorization to fly in specific areas.
One of the most well-known air space regulations is the “no-fly zone.” These are areas where flying is either prohibited or restricted for security reasons. The FAA maintains a list of no-fly zones on its website.
Another important regulation governing air space is the requirement for pilots to obtain authorization before flying in certain areas. This authorization is known as a flight plan, and it must be filed with the FAA before takeoff. Pilots must also comply with all air traffic control (ATC) instructions while flying.
Violating air space regulations can result in civil penalties or criminal charges. It is important to familiarize yourself with the regulations before flying to avoid any potential problems.
What is APPi?
The Association of Paragliding Pilots and Instructors (APPi) is a global paragliding organization that provides training and resources for glider pilots and instructors. Founded in 2001, APPi has more than 5,000 members from over 60 countries. Most countries recognize its certified pilot program, including the U.S.
APPi offers a variety of resources to its members, including training materials, safety information, and networking opportunities. The organization also promotes gliding as a safe and environmentally-friendly form of aviation.
APPi maintains a rigorous certification process for its members, which ensures that glider pilots are properly trained and equipped to fly safely. To become certified by APPi, pilots must complete an approved training program and pass an assessment test.
Where can I find a school?
If you’re looking for a training school, the United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (USHPA) is a good place to start. All USHPA-sanctioned schools are required to meet rigorous training standards, so you can be sure that you’re receiving quality instruction.
When choosing a school, make sure to ask questions about the curriculum and instructors. You should also visit the school to get a feel for the atmosphere. It’s important to find a school that you feel comfortable with, as you’ll be spending a lot of time there. The training process can take anywhere from a few days to a few months, to several years, depending on your desired level of experience.
Many pilots believe it’s better to learn how to fly a glider, before learning how to fly paramotors. You will need ground handling skills, kiting skills, wing handling skills, landing skills, wind speed, as well as an understanding of how to find the best flying conditions.
About the author.
Damien Mitchell is a USHPA Advanced Instructor, and APPi Trained Instructor. He has over 10,000 flights and has been instructing paragliders for 15-years. He has been flying for almost 25-years. He is originally from Utah.