Is paragliding dangerous?

Just like driving a car or riding a motorcycle, Paragliding is an inherently dangerous activity. You wouldn't go scuba diving without first learning the basics, so you shouldn't go flying in a paraglider without proper training either!

The key to having a long and safe flying 'career' starts with receiving the proper training and adopting the right attitude for flying early on.

Many accidents and injuries in paragliding are the result of direct pilot actions (meaning it was the mistake of the pilot), there are very few accidents that result from 'random' factors occurring.

How long can paragliders fly for? Do I have to hike back up after every flight?

Paragliders can fly for hours depending on the weather. A glider is constantly "falling" through the air, so pilots will locate "Updrafts" of air to gain altitude again. With the correct skills and knowledge, pilots are often able to land at the same place they takeoff from!

How long does it take to learn to fly?

This varies greatly depending on the individual. The more often you commit to practicing and attending lessons the quicker you will progress.

You can expect a total of 15 - 20 days total, however, this could be spread over 6 months depending on the weather and your own progression.

How do I get started?

Simple, just call us and we'll guide you through!

Do I need a licence for paragliding?

Yes, in Hong Kong, the Civil Aviation Department requires paraglider pilots to be suitably qualified.

You can find more information here: https://www.cad.gov.hk/english/paragliding.html

What licence and system does Updraft Paragliding follow?

The school provides training under the Association of Paragliding Pilots and Instructors, or APPI.

You can check out APPI www.flyappi.org

Is paragliding instruction legal in Hong Kong?

Yes, Updraft Paragliding has obtained the required permits and permission from Hong Kong CAD to carry out paragliding flight training.

Why do I need a licence for paragliding?

Having an appropriate FAI recognized licence entitles you to be covered by third party liability insurance. Outside of Hong Kong, many countries and local clubs will want to see proof of your flying experience in order to fly overseas.

What's the difference between APPI 1, APPI2 and APPI 3?

APPI 1 and APPI 2 is a learners licence, it enables you to fly but only under the direct guidance of an instructor. APPI 3 is a solo pilot certificate that allows you to fly on your own, as long as the site allows.

Which sites can I fly at as APPI 3?

Check the Hong Kong Paragliding Association website under site guides for licence and site restrictions. www.hkpa.net/Site-Guides

Why do I have to join the HKPA (Hong Kong Paragliding Association) to start training?

The Hong Kong Paragliding Association is affiliated with Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC). it is mandatory to join in order to be covered by third party liability insurance. This is both a HKCAD requirement and a HKPA requirement.

Do I need my own equipment?

Typically we will provide equipment for our Introduction Discover Course if you are between 55-92 Kg AND between 155 - 180 cm.

Students will need to purchase their own equipment before progressing to flying (you'll want to get used to your own wing anyway).

What equipment will I need for paragliding?

As a minimum, you will need a paraglider, harness, approved helmet, VHF/UHF radio and reserve parachute in order to start flying.

Additionally, students may consider other outdoor equipment such as gloves (highly recommended), variometer, a hook knife, hiking poles, and

How much does it cost for all the equipment?

Depending on the brand of the glider and harness, you can expect anywhere between 25000 - 40000 HKD total for the minimum equipment (glider, harness, reserve parachute, helmet, & radio)

Can I use my own equipment or borrow from a friend?

Yes! The only exception is that the glider must be rated EN-A if you are a new pilot, and the glider must be less than 2 years old/100 flight hours or less than 5 years old with a safety inspection by the manufacturer within the last 2 years.

Where can I buy equipment from?

Your instructor will match you with the right glider, harness, reserve parachute and helmet. Occasionally the school will have lightly used equipment for sale.

Is there a refund policy?

Yes. If for any reason you decide to quit training, the course fee paid will be refunded to you minus the daily rate at 1200HKD/Day (up to the total amount paid).

Your instructor may also stop your training and give you a refund if there is cause to believe that you would not be fit to continue the course safely.

An example of safety concerns: a student disregards rules and goes flying solo without the consent of their instructor. A student willingly ignores instructions, and puts their safety or others safety at risk.

If the decision to stop training is initiated by the instructor, it will be refunded minus the daily rate of 1200HKD/day.

Do I need to be very young and fit for paragliding?

No. According to the Guiness Book of World Records, the oldest person to go paragliding is 91 years old.

While paragliding in Hong Kong does require some fitness to hike up the mountain - you can hike as fast or as slow as you need (the mountain isn't going anywhere soon).

https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/369383-oldest-person-to-paraglide-male