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What is Paramotoring?
To fly you will need:
1. Paramotor, this will generally be a 2-stroke engine as pound-for-pound they are lighter and produce more power than the 4 stroke equivalent. The motor and associated components are usually bought as a package from the retailer, as a "Paramotor".
2. Harness - which connects you to the motor and onto which is clipped the glider.
3. A glider (sometimes referred to as a wing or canopy) this is what keeps you in the air enabling you to soar like a bird - we didn't say what sort of a bird!
4. And of course training!
In addition to the above, it is strongly recommended that pilots always wear a helmet, flying suit and boots the latter of which will provide protection against the elements and twisted/broken ankles. Other accessories over the compulsory compass, air chart and altimeter pilots must have to comply with Air Law - include a vertical speed indicator or "vario", Global Positioning Device ('GPS') which will provide details of your location and depending on model, air space information, distance and duration of flight etc., and a mobile phone or air band radio (118.675Mhz for paramotors within the UK) for retrieves or possible emergency treatment!
WHERE IS FLYING ALLOWED?
Currently Paramotoring (or Powered Paragliding 'PPG') is deregulated, however there are certain rules specified within the Air Navigation Order ('ANO') to which you must adhere. These rules are aimed at ensuring general aerial safety and the safety of others within the vicinity of your flight path. All that understood - you can pretty much fly where you like adhering to these rules. Many sites have additional rules any local agreements with landowners which you must check before attempting to fly.
The attraction of this type of personal aircraft is that it will pack into two large rucksacks and load into the back of any standard hatchback or family car.
Take off requires a minimum runway area - into wind - in an area free of power lines and other obstructions.
Flying over large built-up areas or gatherings of people with paramotors in the UK is forbidden. Certain prior approval from the Civil Aviation Authority ('CAA') may allow you to attend events with special training and permissions.
The minimum age for learning to fly a Paramotor is 16, primarily because of the need to comprehend aviation rules and personal liability requirements. All pilots must be aware of the air navigation order relating to powered flight, and observe specific rules relating to Paramotoring.
Whilst there is no legal requirement for the owner of a Paramotor to attend formalised training, it is strongly recommended that they do so before attempting to fly (it's quicker and faster to learn with an instructor) and you will learn about potentially dangerous situations the easy way!.
There are several excellent training establishments located within the UK which will provide training both on the handling of the glider, with/without motor, including specialist techniques enabling you to fly more safely and, equally important, they will provide details of relevant aviation law.
In addition, many offer training abroad to take advantage of more predictable weather patterns.
Once you have undertaken your training and satisfied your instructor as to your competency and understanding of the ANO, you will be free to fly. Once you have undertaken your training and satisfied your instructor as to your competency and understanding of the ANO, you will be free to fly.
HOW TO GET STARTED
As recommended you will first need to find an instructor and/or school and agree training programme.
Depending in the school you may need to buy your equipment prior to commencement of training.
It is also recommended that you consider to learn to free-fly before moving onto using a Paramotor, as this will enable you to extract the maximum enjoyment from your flights, using thermals and identifying thermal trigger points, assist with reduced fuel consumption in flight and allow you to understand and ascertain the potential dangers of aerial sports.
TYPICAL COSTS
Whilst the initial outlay for a new Paramotor and Glider may at first appear expensive, the equipment, if treated properly will provide approx. 300 hours flying time or more. After this time you may need to replace your canopy. When compared to the cost of operating or owning a micro light or small plane the costs are minimal by comparison.
Complete new Paramotor and wing, will have a retail price of between £4000 and £7,000 depending on model and specification. Lighter pilots may obtain slightly lower pricing and lighter machines. Always try to buy a machine that has been load tested by an approved manufacturer or licensed body - as this may save your life in the future. Load testing to 10G can be carried out by certain manufacturers in the UK.
Wing only, of a quality capable of taking the additional weight and stresses associated with motorised flight, range from £1,600-£2400
Motor only range from £3795 -£4295
Training costs vary dependent on facilities and number of instructors available. Generally you will be charged around £150 per day (Sometimes schools may charge + personal insurance + hire of equipment + fuel). 5 -10 "flyable" days will usually be sufficient to see you enjoying your new sport!