Paragliding is an unforgettable way to experience the sky, but when a child is on board, the stakes are higher. A thorough pre‑flight safety check helps ensure that the flight is as safe as possible for both the pilot and the little passenger. Below is a step‑by‑step guide specifically geared toward tandem flights with children.
Verify Pilot Qualification & Licensing
| Requirement | What to Confirm |
|---|---|
| Tandem‑specific certification | Current tandem rating from the national paragliding authority (e.g., USPA, BHPA, FAI). |
| Medical fitness | Up‑to‑date medical clearance for high‑altitude activity. |
| Recent flight experience | Minimum number of solo and tandem flights in the last 30 days (often 5--10). |
| Child‑flight training | Completion of any required child‑safety modules or workshops. |
If any of these are missing, the flight should be postponed.
Inspect the Equipment
A. Tandem Wing
- Fabric integrity -- Look for tears, discoloration, or UV‑damage.
- Line condition -- Check all lines for abrasion, fraying, or corrosion at the attachment points.
- Risers & Handles -- Ensure the tandem riser system (including child‑specific harness attachments) is free of cracks or stretched webbing.
- Ventilation -- Confirm that all leading‑edge vents are open and unclogged.
B. Harness System
| Item | Checklist |
|---|---|
| Adult tandem harness | Buckles secure, webbing tensioned, no signs of wear. |
| Child harness | Age‑appropriate size, padded, double‑locking buckles, and a secure tether to the adult harness. |
| Safety straps | All straps snug but not overly tight; adjust for the child's height and torso length. |
| Emergency release | Function test of any quick‑release mechanisms. |
C. Flight Instruments & Safety Gear
- Variometer & GPS -- Confirm battery life > 2 hours and proper calibration.
- Helmet (for child) -- Proper fit, strap fastened, visor clear.
- Protective clothing -- Long‑sleeve, gloves, and sturdy shoes for both pilot and child.
- First‑aid kit -- Easily accessible; includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any child‑specific medication (with parental approval).
Assess Weather & Site Conditions
| Parameter | Acceptable Range for Children |
|---|---|
| Wind speed | ≤ 15 km/h (≈ 8 kt) at launch altitude; gusts ≤ 5 km/h above that. |
| Wind direction | Consistent with the launch site's preferred direction; avoid cross‑winds > 30°. |
| Thermal activity | Light to moderate; no strong thermals that could cause rapid altitude changes. |
| Visibility | Clear or scattered clouds; no fog or low‑lying haze. |
| Temperature | Comfortable for the child (no extreme cold/hot). Use layered clothing if needed. |
Use a reliable weather app or local station, and always cross‑check with a second source (e.g., a fellow pilot or a weather balloon).
Conduct a Ground Walk‑Through
- Approach the launch area -- Ensure the field is free of obstacles, people, and pets.
- Clear the launch strip -- No loose debris, stones, or metal objects that could snag lines.
- Check the anchoring points -- All carabiners, hooks, and ground anchors must be locked and free of rust.
- Run a "tug test" -- Give each line a firm pull to confirm there is no slippage or hidden damage.
Communicate with the Child and Their Guardians
- Explain the process in simple terms: what will happen, how long the flight lasts, and what sensations they might feel.
- Obtain informed consent -- Have a parent or legal guardian sign a brief waiver that outlines risks and emergency procedures.
- Ask about health conditions -- Allergies, asthma, recent injuries, or medications that could affect the flight.
- Establish a "stop" signal -- A clear, easy‑to‑perform gesture (e.g., raising both arms) that the child can use if they feel uncomfortable.
Pre‑Flight Briefing with the Child
| Topic | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Gear check | Show the harness, helmet, and explain each buckle. |
| Take‑off | Describe the run‑up, the feeling of lift, and the gentle "pull" sensation. |
| In‑flight | Talk about the quiet, the view, and the importance of staying relaxed. |
| Landing | Explain the gentle touchdown, the need to keep legs slightly bent, and the post‑flight de‑brief. |
| Emergency plan | Reassure them that you have a contingency plan and will remain in control at all times. |
Final Go/No‑Go Decision
Use the "Three‑Check Rule" before releasing the wing:
- Equipment Check -- All items pass the visual and functional inspections.
- Weather Check -- Conditions remain within the safe envelope for children.
- Human Check -- Pilot feels fit, child is calm, and guardians are comfortable.
If any of the three checks raise a concern, abort the flight and reschedule.
Post‑Flight Review
- Debrief with the child and guardians: What was enjoyable? Any discomfort?
- Inspect equipment again -- Look for any wear incurred during the flight.
- Log the flight -- Record wind, temperature, flight duration, and any anomalies.
Conclusion
Conducting pre‑flight safety checks for tandem paragliding with children demands an extra layer of diligence. By systematically verifying pilot qualifications, scrutinizing every piece of equipment, respecting weather limits, and communicating clearly with both the child and their guardians, you create a safe environment that lets young adventurers experience the joy of flight with confidence.
Remember: Safety isn't a checklist---it's a mindset. When you prioritize it at every step, the sky becomes a playground that everyone can enjoy responsibly.