Flying a paraglider under its own power opens a whole new wing of freedom, but the shift from pure foot launch to powered paragliding (PPG) can feel daunting at first. The good news is that the core skills you already have---air awareness, wing handling, and launch/landing techniques---are the foundation for a smooth transition. Below is a step‑by‑step guide that blends technical preparation, safety mindset, and mental conditioning so you can make the jump confidently and safely.
Understand What Changes (and What Stays the Same)
| Aspect | Foot‑Launch Paragliding | Powered Paragliding |
|---|---|---|
| Launch | Run‑up, pull brake, take‑off | Shorter run‑up, engine thrust |
| Weight | Pilot + wing | Pilot + wing + motor, battery, propeller, harness accessories |
| Flight Controls | Brakes, weight shift, spoilers | Same controls plus throttle |
| Landing | Flare, run‑in | Flare, engine idle, possible short‑run landing with thrust |
| Air Law | Same airspace rules | Same, but motor noise may affect local restrictions |
The take‑off distance shrinks dramatically, but you now have to manage an extra control (throttle) and an additional source of failure (engine). Recognizing these differences early prevents surprise in the air.
Get the Right Gear
2️⃣ Choose a PPG‑Ready Wing
- Reinforced Leading Edge -- Handles extra vibration and occasional hard landings.
- Higher Aspect Ratio (5--6) -- Gives better climb performance with a motor.
- Certified for Motor Use -- Look for "motor‑compatible" or "paramotor‑approved" labels.
⚙️ Pick a Suitable Power Unit
- Engine Power -- 18 kW (24 hp) is a solid baseline for most pilots; larger pilots may need 25 kW.
- Weight -- Aim for a unit that adds no more than 15 kg to your total system mass.
- Propeller Size -- 100--120 cm diameter with a low‑pitch blade gives smooth thrust and low noise.
🎒 Harness & Accessories
- Back‑Mount Harness -- The most common; ensures the thrust line aligns with your centre of gravity.
- Reserve Parachute Placement -- Keep it accessible, preferably mounted on the harness.
- Helmet, Gloves, and Boots -- Protect against debris and the extra vibration of the engine.
Build a Knowledge Base Before You Fly
- Read the Manual -- Every motor model has quirks (fuel mix, cooling, startup sequence).
- Watch Engine‑Specific Videos -- Visual cues for idle, full‑throttle, and emergency shut‑down are invaluable.
- Study the Check‑List -- Create a concise, printed checklist covering pre‑flight, engine start, take‑off, flight, and landing.
- Learn Engine Maintenance Basics -- Oil changes, spark plug inspection, and fuel‑filter cleaning prolong life and prevent in‑flight failures.
Ground Training: Practice Makes Perfect
4.1 Engine Handling Without a Wing
- Cold‑Start Procedure -- Repeat the start‑stop cycle on the ground until you can do it in under 30 seconds.
- Throttle Sensitivity -- Practice smooth, incremental throttle adjustments; this translates directly to gentle climbs and descents.
- Kill‑Switch Drills -- Simulate engine failure, turn off the motor, and walk the harness away safely.
4.2 Harness and Wing Integration
- Mount the Wing on the Harness -- Do this on flat ground, checking that the lines run cleanly and the motor's thrust line is centered.
- Pre‑Flight Walk‑Through -- Perform a full check: fuel, battery, propeller guard, harness straps, brake lines, and reserve parachute.
4.3 Short‑Run‑Up & Simulated Take‑Offs
- Static Thrust Test -- With the motor at idle, hold the harness and feel the thrust direction. Increase to full power and note the pull.
- Run‑Up Without Lift -- Try a short, low‑speed run‑up while keeping the wing on the ground. Focus on timing the "pull‑brake‑run‑throttle" sequence.
First Powered Flights: The Step‑by‑Step Sequence
| Phase | Action | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Pre‑flight | Complete the check‑list, ensure clear area, watch wind direction. | Double‑check fuel level (or battery charge). |
| Engine Start | Follow cold‑start procedure; let engine warm for 2--3 min. | Listen for abnormal noises; monitor temperature gauge. |
| Run‑up | Align with wind, walk forward while holding the wing, apply a light brake to keep it inflated. | Keep the throttle low initially (30 % power) to avoid a sudden surge. |
| Take‑off | Increase throttle smoothly to full power, pull both brakes to a slight "launch" position, and run forward. | The thrust will accelerate you; you may need only a 2‑step run. |
| Climb | Once airborne, level the wing, release brakes, and maintain a steady throttle to achieve a comfortable climb rate (≈1 m/s). | Keep eyes on the horizon; avoid looking down at the propeller. |
| Cruise | Set throttle to desired cruise power (usually 50‑70 %). Use brakes for turns and speed control. | Remember: throttle + brakes = pitch; use both for precision. |
| Descent & Landing | Reduce throttle gradually, flare with brakes as you approach the ground. If the engine is still running, pull the kill‑switch at the last second to avoid a hard touchdown. | Practice a "soft‑kill" (throttle to idle, then kill) to smooth out the landing roll. |
Pro tip: Record video of your first few flights (from a ground perspective). Reviewing the footage helps you spot timing errors you may not feel during the flight.
Develop a Safety Mindset
- Never Fly Alone Until Confident -- Have an experienced PPG pilot or instructor on site for the first five‑to‑ten flights.
- Always Have an Engine‑Out Procedure -- If the motor quits, transition to pure gliding: reduce throttle, adopt an efficient glide attitude, and aim for a safe landing zone.
- Stay Within Weight Limits -- Exceeding the manufacturer's total weight (pilot + gear) reduces climb performance and can lead to stall on take‑off.
- Monitor Weather Rigorously -- PPG can handle lower wind speeds, but turbulence and gusts still affect control. Aim for <5 kt wind for the first powered attempts.
- Carry a Mobile Phone or Radio -- In case of an emergency landing far from your launch site.
Progression Path: From First Flight to Mastery
| Milestone | What You Should Be Able to Do |
|---|---|
| 0‑5 Flights | Safe take‑off, climb, and landing with engine on. Emergency engine‑off glide practiced. |
| 5‑15 Flights | Smooth throttle control, start/stop engine mid‑flight (e.g., for a "stop‑and‑go" maneuver). |
| 15‑30 Flights | Controlled altitude changes using throttle alone---no excessive brake input. |
| 30+ Flights | Execute complex maneuvers: steep turns, 360° spirals, and short‑field landings in confined zones. |
| Beyond | Cross‑country powered flights, multi‑day trips with fuel planning, and possibly tandem PPG (if certified). |
Track your flight hours and maintain a logbook; it's a great motivator and an excellent reference when troubleshooting later.
Maintenance Routine -- Keep the Engine Happy
-
After Every Flight
-
Weekly
- Clean or replace the air filter.
- Check spark plug gap and condition.
-
Monthly
-
Annual
A well‑maintained power unit dramatically reduces the likelihood of an in‑flight failure, letting you focus on enjoying the flight.
Mental Transition: Embrace the New Freedom
- Accept the Learning Curve -- It's normal to feel a little "off balance" when the thrust mixes with brake inputs. Patience is key.
- Visualize the Sequence -- Before each take‑off, run a mental rehearsal: start engine → throttle → brake pull → lift → throttle reduction → flare.
- Celebrate Small Wins -- A smooth landing on the third powered flight is a huge milestone---acknowledge it!
- Stay Humble -- Powered paragliding adds speed and altitude; always respect the equipment and the environment.
Recap: Your Seamless Transition Checklist
- [ ] Choose a motor‑compatible wing and a properly sized engine.
- [ ] Acquire a back‑mount harness, helmet, gloves, and a reserve parachute.
- [ ] Study the manual, watch instructional videos, and write a personal pre‑flight checklist.
- [ ] Practice engine start, throttle control, and emergency shut‑down on the ground.
- [ ] Perform static thrust tests and short run‑up drills without lift.
- [ ] Execute your first powered take‑off using the step‑by‑step sequence.
- [ ] Maintain a strict safety routine: weight limits, weather checks, and buddy system.
- [ ] Follow a regular maintenance schedule for the engine and wing.
- [ ] Log each flight and reflect on improvements.
By methodically covering equipment, knowledge, ground training, execution, and safety, the shift from foot launch to powered paragliding becomes not just feasible, but exhilarating. The sky is already within reach---now you have the power to stay up there longer, explore farther, and experience a whole new dimension of freedom. Happy flying!