Paragliding-Elementary Pilot

• First Flying Qualification

• Higher flights

• Learn how to turn the glider

• know all the basics

• Theory sessions

• Accurate landings

• Modern Paragliders

• Expert instruction

The Elementary pilot course is 4-5 days in duration.  It's the first of the BHPA qualifications. The EP is a great starter for people wanting to give the sport a good go, and experience flying a paraglider solo at higher heights than you are able to on a funday. 

During the course you will carry out solo flights with gradual height increases, 50,100,150ft on so on (if you have upgraded from a Funday, you will progress to higher heights faster).  Once you have the basics and your landing approaches are consistent and safe, you will soon be learning how to carry out turns up to 180 deg and reaching heights of up to 200-300ft+!

Once EP is completed, this you have covered the basics of learning to fly. You still need qualified instructors with you at this stage, until you qualify as a Club pilot.

During the EP course you will sit a series of four 20 minute lectures, covering Meteorology, Air Law, Airmanship, and Theory of Flight.  This followed by a 30 minute multiple choice exam, 70% being the pass rate.
 

Syllabus

PHASE 1 (Ground Training)

• Introductory Talk

• Site Assessment Briefing

• Introduction to canopy and equipment

• Avoiding / Minimising injury

PHASE 2 (Ground Handling)

• Pre flight checks

• Getting into the glider

• Launching the glider

• Directional control

PHASE 3 (First Hops)

• Getting Airborne (low level)

PHASE 4 (Flight Exercises)

• Eventualities

• Communications (radio, bat signals etc)

• Responsibility briefing

• Higher flights

• Introducing turns

• Making basic flight plans

PHASE 5 (Theory and Exam)

• 4 Theory lectures

• EP exam

Cost

• An Elementary Pilot course costs £599.  A group of 10 or more and you will be entitled to a 10% discount.

• If your course is cancelled due to bad weather, you can book another date and will not loose any credit.

Timing

• You will need to call the Duty instructor in the morning of the course, between 0700 - 0730hrs to check the weather conditions are suitable.

• You will be required to be on site at 0900hrs on the day of your course.

• You should expect to be on site for the whole day.  We finish approx 1700hrs, although it may be slightly later due to weather conditions.

Requirements

• YOU MUST WEAR BOOTS with good ankle support.  We are flying on grass which can never be perfectly flat and smooth.  Boots will protect your ankles.

• You should bring with you clothing appropriate to the weather conditions for the day.  The airfield and Hill are exposed places, you may get cold if you have unsuitable clothing

Age limit and health condition

• The minimum age limit for a paragliding fun day is 14.  Under 18's need parental consent to undertake the  course.  Under 16's will not be able to gain a EP rating, although they can complete the course.

• You must be in good health, and reasonably fit.  Please contact us if you are unsure

Equipments

• All equipment required for the flight will be provided for you. 

• Weight limit is 23 stone, although you must be fit enough to be able to walk up small training hills, and run a few yards

• Your flying voucher is valid for 12 months after the date of purchase.  You must do your flight in this time period.  If you do not redeem your voucher within the 12 months, we unfortunately cannot offer a refund or extension of any kind. 

• We are open 7 days a week, all year round.  And yes we do fly in the winter! Some of our best training days are held during the winter.