Paragliding - Flying Types

In this chapter, we will discuss about the types of flying in paragliding.

Soaring

This kind of flight is done with the help of wind which is directed upward with the help of a fixed object like ridge or dune. In this kind of slope soaring, the pilot flies by help of air lift. The pilot flies along with the slope and the lift is being provided by the air. Slope soaring totally depends upon the steady wind along with the speed of the wind and the skill of the pilot.

Cross-country flying

Cross-country flying is moving from one thermal to the next available thermal. A pilot has to recognize the thermal by the land features and also by identifying a cumulus cloud where humid air reaches and cumulates to a cloud.

Cross-country flying needs extreme knowledge of air law, flying regulation, and aviation maps which show any restricted airspace etc.

Thermal Flying

The ground and the surrounds becomes hot due to sunlight. These surroundings include buildings, rocks, and many others. Due to this, the thermals are set up which rise with air. While rising, these thermals are detached from their source and form a new thermal. These thermals help a paraglider to fly in circle and tries to reach the center of the circle as the speed of wind is faster at the center. This speed helps a paraglider to rise.

Thermal flying is a technique which needs precision, persistence and time to learn. A good pilot can fly with the core up through the cloud.