Tandem paragliding can be a safe activity as long as rules and regulations are followed consistently.
Companies providing this extreme-sport service must ensure that their pilots are properly certified and trained. The pilots, in turn, must give clear instructions to their passengers on what to do or not do when in flight.
As long as safety precautions and common sense prevail, there is no reason why tandem paragliding should not be safe.
Can You Paraglide With Another Person?
When you paraglide with another person, this is called tandem paragliding. Specially-designed gliders are used for this type of paragliding. A wing (or canopy or sail) big enough to carry two people is used in this instance.
Anyone can enjoy this experience as long as the passenger has no physical disability. Unfortunately, having a disability will disqualify one from paragliding. Those with heart conditions, sprains, plaster casts, and pregnant women can’t go paragliding. Otherwise, most people are good to go.
The passenger must not also be outside a certain weight range to qualify for a ride. Minors must be given written permission by a qualified adult.
What Is a Tandem Paraglider?
A tandem paraglider is a wing designed to carry two people to soar through the air. It is provided with two harnesses and a set of lines and risers. In solo paragliding, only the pilot is carried by the wing. In tandem paragliding, the wing is larger so it can carry a pilot as well as a passenger.
Tandem paragliding is often done for relaxation and leisure. Usually, a licensed pilot would take a passenger paragliding for the purpose of providing the experience without the responsibility of controlling the glider.
The second purpose of tandem paragliding is to train someone to be a pilot themselves. Aspiring pilots have to go through inflight testing before they can get their certifications.
Is Tandem Paragliding Safe?
No extreme sport like tandem paragliding is entirely safe. The greatest care is taken so that accidents can be avoided.
All tandem pilots must have their APPI 5 Advanced Pilot Qualification certificate. This means they must have completed at least 200 authenticated flights across varied locations and weather conditions.
Tandem pilots undergo demanding theory, practical, and inflight testing before they get their certifications from the Association of Paragliding Pilots and Instructors (APPI).
Most tandem paragliding accidents can be avoided. Pilot error can be eliminated by flying only with certified instructors. Do not go paragliding when the weather is iffy. There is no sense in risking yourself when you can go fly on better days.
Inspect your equipment before every outing, including the wing, helmets, harnesses, radio, altimeter, reserve parachute, etc. Doing this will significantly lower your risk of being in an accident.
Is There a Weight Limit for Tandem Paragliding?
Yes, as with other forms of transport, there is a weight limit for tandem paragliding. This limit is even more significant when it comes to paragliding.
Sticking to the weight limits set will ensure your safety and enjoyment of paragliding. Your level of control is also better when you are flying with a manageable weight. You will have one thing less to worry about when you observe this very important rule.
The wind intensity directly affects the weight limit. A strong, consistent wind is necessary if the paraglider has to carry its passengers at close to the maximum weight limit safely. It will be difficult to launch a paraglider carrying both pilot and the passenger with inadequate wind. They may lift off for a bit but could quickly come crashing down if the wind does not hold up.
What Is the Weight Limit for Tandem Paragliding?
The weight limit for the majority of tandem paragliders is around 220 to 240 kilograms (485 to 530 pounds). This weight includes both the pilot, passenger, and all equipment they may have with them. Generally, tandem paragliding services would set a passenger weight limit of about 110 to 120 kilograms (240 to 265 pounds).
The weight limit on a particular day could also be changed according to the wind conditions. A day with stronger winds can have a higher weight limit as the paraglider would have more lift.
A paraglider pilot may not feel at ease carrying a load near to the weight limit if there is insufficient wind, especially during launch. Pilots will feel more comfortable flying closer to the weight limit when the wind is robust, and thermals are rising.
How Much Does Tandem Paragliding Cost?
Tandem paragliding can cost anywhere from $150 to $500 varying on the services. This amount will depend on the country and the season when you take your flight. The length of the flight will also be a factor. Obviously, a longer ride will cost more than a shorter one.
The location of the launch will also affect the price. Launching from a hill or cliff will mean a longer ride to the launch site, while a beach launch will have easier access. Some providers will include pick-up and drop-off services to the launch and landing sites.
Before you complain about the prices, remember that they charge all this so you can have the best paragliding experience as safe and as enjoyable as possible.
How Does Tandem Paragliding Work?
Tandem paragliding works in the same way as solo paragliding works, except that there are two people on the paraglider rather than one. Your instructor will teach you the basics of the launch, landing, and the dos and don’ts while you are in the air. You will also get some info about the site and route so you get more out of the experience.
Your pilot will then go over the paragliding gear with you before putting on your harnesses and helmets. Then you get the glider spread out, hook in your lines, get some last-minute reminders, and start the launch sequence (just like NASA!).
Facing the wind with your instructor, walk or run as directed. Your instructor will pull on the wing, which will fill up with air and form a canopy overhead. The wing will rise gently, and you suddenly realize you’re airborne! Let your instructor do his thing and enjoy the ride.
How Do You Prepare for Tandem Paragliding?
Wear the right clothes for starters. You want to be nice and comfy when paragliding. Wear a windbreaker as it is cooler up there than wherever your launch site might be. You might start from a sunny beach, but it could get a little chilly when you get up to altitude.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as you might have to do some hiking at the launch and landing zones. Sunglasses will protect your eyes from the sun and wind. And don’t forget your gloves.
The paragliding service provider will supply the helmet and other safety gear. It is also suggested to avoid eating or drinking at least two hours before your flight. Your stomach will thank you for it. There’s also no toilet up there like in an airplane, and there’s nothing worse than holding it in rather than just enjoying your flight.
Can You Fly a Tandem Paraglider Solo?
Yes, but it’s not recommended, and we’ll tell you why. First of all, a tandem paraglider is supposed to carry two passengers, not one. Using a tandem for one passenger is already not using it properly. The issue here is it is going to be severely underloaded.
Even in calm conditions, a paraglider that is underloaded will be difficult to handle. Paraglider pilots prefer to fly with a passenger who gives more stability to the paraglider than with a lighter one, especially in more dynamic conditions. Turbulence and relatively moderate wind will be a cause of instability.
So, if you’re going solo, use the right paraglider and not one for a tandem flight.
What Is Tandem Paragliding Like?
First-timers describe their experience as a blend of thrill, fascination, and wonder, a feeling unlike any other. Any anxiety about the flight was brushed aside by a consciousness of freedom. It’s always described as one of the most adrenaline-charged adventures they have ever had.
Most people who go paragliding find it to be a relaxing, peaceful, and enjoyable experience. It’s certainly not as scary as skydiving and bungee jumping as they initially thought. The minimal structure of the equipment sans the walls will make you feel at one with nature. Paragliding is flying at its most elemental form.
Why Should I Try Tandem Paragliding?
Tandem paragliding is an activity that unites adrenaline rush, trepidation, quietness, a feeling of calmness, and a lot of fun. If this is something you crave, then go for it. It will be an unforgettable memory and a unique life experience.
Tandem paragliding can or cannot be classified as an extreme thrill-seeking activity. Instead, you may experience it as relaxing and peaceful. Soaring in the skies without any noise except for the wind, having a never-ending view of the mountains, the ocean, and whatever nature has to offer right then and there has to be an awe-inspiring moment.
