Earlier this June, I welcomed a group of seven paramotor pilots to my home flying site in Chamonix, and I am not exaggerating when I say they were treated to some of the best flying conditions you could ask for.
Paragliding Conversion Course
The course was led by my good friend Rich Taylor, a British FFVL Instructor with many years of experience as both a paragliding instructor and tandem pilot. He guided the group through the first two days of ground handling, carefully adjusting each pilot's technique. A key change was encouraging them to lean forward and apply brake pressure during inflation, as opposed to standing upright with their arms raised, which is common during paramotor launches. Fortunately, their previous ground handling experience gave them a solid foundation, allowing them to quickly build the muscle memory needed for successful slope takeoffs.
Photo Above: Rich Taylor instructing Fred
Paragliding solo
On day two, Rich was joined by my neighbour Xavier, who has been flying since the early 90s and is also a highly experienced FFVL Instructor and tandem pilot. He worked with each pilot to further refine their technique and spent time getting to know the group. By the end of the session, both Rich and Xavier agreed that everyone was ready to fly solo the next day. To get their head in the game, the whole group went up to the Aiguille du Midi at 3842 meters.
Photo Above: Rich Taylor debriefing Fred
Paragliding on one of the best flying sites in the Alps
Early on day three, Xavier led a slightly anxious but excited group of pilots up to Plan Praz at 2000 meters, which I personally believe is one of the best flying sites in the Alps. I may be biased, having completed more than 1000 flights there myself. Each pilot launched successfully from the north-facing takeoff in calm conditions and enjoyed a smooth ten-minute flight down. The initial landings were done on the airbag with the pilots seated in their harnesses, a clear contrast to paramotoring where we teach students to stand up before landing to protect the equipment. Needless to say, everyone was thrilled with their first flight and quickly went up for a second. This time, the air was more active, as the thermals had started to build, catching some by surprise. Everyone landed safely by 11:30 in the morning, followed by a thorough debrief from Rich.
Photo Above: Alex and Chris after a successful flight
On day four, the group repeated the flight sequence in similar conditions. This time, Rich placed more emphasis on pitch control in the air. That evening, I took Ted and Fred climbing on the Brevent, and we camped at the Plan Praz takeoff before flying down the next morning. Something I will always remember!
Photo Above: Alex belaying Ted and Fred on the Brevent Crags
Day five took us to the Index launch at 2350 meters above Flegere. This flight was slightly longer, and the second one gave the pilots their first taste of more active thermic air. As always, Rich ensured everyone was down by midday, before stronger valley winds developed.
Photo Above: Fred, Alex and Ted at the top of the climb
The sixth and final day was the highlight, with two pilots managing to stay airborne in the thermals for over an hour. This was a remarkable achievement considering that just six days earlier, they had never flown without a motor.
So what comes next?
Many of the pilots are planning to join the SIV course we are running in Turkey from 20 to 27 September. Some have already purchased their own paragliding equipment, while others are looking forward to returning for the next course in Chamonix from 13 to 20 September. If we can build up a good group of Paragliding Paramotor Pilots the next plan is to organise a SkyWeek type guided Paragliding Holiday outside of Europe, so watch this space for more info!
Find out more about our Paragliding Conversion Course
If you are interested in joining a paragliding course, email me at alex@skyopsx.com
