hang gliding & paragliding

British Hangliding & Paragliding Association

Hang Gliding
Hang gliding, since its inception in the 1970s, has developed into a practical and relatively safe sport, using simple yet sophisticated machine built of aluminium, carbon-fibre and high-tech sail fabrics. Manufacturers, both in the UK and overseas, build examples that are respected the world over.

What exactly do you do?
Hang glider pilots, suspended from their gliders by a special harness, launch from hills facing into wind, from winches on flat ground or by being towed aloft from an airfield behind a microlight aircraft. The objective is always to stay airborne in lifting currents of air and - for many - to undertake long cross country flights. The UK record for distance currently stands at over 250km and for altitude at an astonishing 16,000ft.

Paragliding
Imagine parking your car at a beautiful upland vantage point on a sparkling spring day. You open the boot and don flying suit and boots, then lift out your incredibly light flying machine in its carrying rucksack and trek off a few yards to where your friends are preparing to fly. After a few minutes spent inspecting your equipment you don helmet and harness, look around, allow the wind to raise the canopy - and launch off into space. This is paragliding!

What is Parascending?
Parascending pilots fly canopies based on parachutes - either 'Rounds' or 'Squares' - that are towed into the air by a Land Rover or winch before gliding back down to land. This is a great team activity that is non-competitive and gets you outdoors - and high above the earth to enjoy some marvellous views.


For more information on learning to fly, finding a training school, BHPA membership & insurance etc. see the Learn to Fly section of the BHPA website.