Developed from parachuting canopies, modern paragliders can be soared effortlessly on windward slopes, and flown across country in good conditions. The views expressed in them are therefore not necessarily those of the British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association. It is important for any pilot who intends to fly an open site to make sure they understand and follow the site's rules. If you wish, you can also "strap on" an engine and turn a hang glider into a powered hang glider, and a paraglider into a paramotor. You'll also need a flying suit, flying boots and a helmet, and will need to consider purchasing other equipment as you progress.

Although the standard which you will be expected to reach will be the same in every school, the actual training programme and methods may vary, as they are determined by the type of wing you learn to fly, the launch method, and the prevailing weather on the day. During this time, she served as Treasurer in the Army HPA and latterly 2 years as Chair of the RNHPA.Over recent years Martin has been attempting to improve the Civil Aircraft Notification Procedure (CANP).

As your accumulated airtime increases and your flying skills improve, you will probably start to think about your long term goals and aspirations, and working towards your Pilot Rating, the next rung on the PRS ladder. Inappropriately trained or untrained pilots have exposed themselves to risks leading to severe and sometimes fatal injury, so instruction from a licensed instructor is an essential step towards minimising risks.The BHPA is recognised [1] by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, the Royal Aero Club, [2] and the Civil Aviation Authority. A summer sky filled with fluffy cumulus clouds provides abundant - but invisible - lifting currents which pilots use to gain altitude. Paul also spent 5 happy years working with Paul Farley at the Welsh Hang Gliding Centre in the 1990's. In 1991, having been elected Chairman of the BHPA, he also started flying in parascending competitions, achieving a Team Bronze in the 1994 Nationals at Middle Wallop.

You may also have to contend with the chill factor of the prevailing wind, so it makes sense to go properly prepared. This is a significant responsibility given that over half of the Association's expenditure goes on this important area. He previously spent three terms on Exec, and after several years away, has re-joined to help shape the future of competitions within the sport. He has served variously as BHPA PR Officer, Safety Officer, Insurance Officer, External Representation Officer, Treasurer and for many years, Chairman. The Paragliding Forum is completely independent and is not affiliated in any way to the British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association.It's the same freedom that hang glider pilots enjoy, but a paraglider is more portable and a little easier to learn to fly.