How is a hang glider controlled?
The pilot is suspended in a harness from the glider at its center of gravity. Move your body back and the glider climbs. Move forward and it descends. Shift your weight to the side and the glider turns. Your Hang Gliding adventure is that simple!
Do you need wind to fly?
It is the motion of the glider moving through the air that supports you, not the wind. Pilots with the proper skills can take advantage of wind or thermals (upward rising air) to turn a gliding flight into a soaring flight that can last for hours in the skies.
Do pilots need to be of a certain age, gender, weight or size range to hang glide?
Hang glider pilots range in age from teens to octogenarians. Women and men make equally good pilots. Most hang glider pilots weigh between 90 and 250 lbs. Specially designed tandem gliders are available for extra heavy pilots.
How does a student go about learning to fly?
The USHGA certifies hang gliding instructors and schools. Typically a student will spend 5 - 10 lessons to obtain each of the first two USHGA pilot ratings (Beginner and Novice), a process which generally takes from 3 to 6 months. Call us today to locate a certified school!