Paragliding
Download this
page as a pdf
Description
Paragliding is a recreational and competitive
flying sport. A paraglider is a free-flying, foot-launched aircraft
in which the pilot is suspended in a sitting position below a
fabric wing.
Forms
An Information and Consent
for Event/Activity form is required to
participate in this activity.
Who can
participate?
Solo flights are open to
those aged 16 and over.
For tandem flights there is
no age limit, provided:
- the pilot is licensed to take passengers
- the passenger is old enough to understand the
instructions
- the passenger's weight is in the provider’s
required weight range.
Ratio of adults to
girls
Normal ratios for activities away from the
meeting place are required.
Guiding Manual ratios
Regulations
- The Leader must ensure that all participants
under 18 have written permission to take part from an adult with
parental responsibility.
- The local Commissioner must be informed that
the activity is taking place.
- Carry out a risk
assessment for the activity.
- Paragliding must be undertaken using the
standards and controls laid down by the British Hang Gliding and
Paragliding Association (BHPA) and must take place at a
BHPA-approved site.
Insurance
Girlguiding UK insurance does not cover members to undertake
aviation activities.
Leaders must check that the activity provider has adequate
insurance cover. Please contact Girlguiding
UK insurers AON for more details.
Instructor
qualifications
This activity must be instructed by an adult
who holds current instructor rating of the British Hang Gliding and Paragliding
Association. Useful information
The instructor should brief participants
on:
- the use of safety and other equipment
- procedures
- the purpose of the flight
- sensations likely to be experienced.
Page last updated: 4/4/2012