PPG Trike: Learning to Fly
Video and PPG Overview: Powered paragliding, also known as paramotoring, is a form of ultralight aviation where the pilot wears a motor on their back (a paramotor) which provides enough thrust to take off using a paraglider wing. It can be launched in still air, and on level ground, by the pilot alone — no assistance is required.
In many countries, including the United States, powered paragliding is minimally regulated and requires no license. The ability to fly both low and slow safely, the ‘open’ feel, the low equipment and maintenance costs, and the portability are claimed to be this type of flying’s greatest merits.
Powered paragliders usually fly between 15 and 45 mph (25 and 70 km/h) at altitudes from ‘foot-dragging in the grass’ up to 18,000 ft (5400 m) although most flying is done under 500 ft (150 m) AGL (above ground level). Because of the low forward speed possible and sensitivity to crosswinds, paramotoring is impractical for most of the year over much of the globe, and is generally a summer sport.
The paramotor, weighing from 45 to 80 pounds (20 to 36 kg) is supported by the pilot during takeoff but then, after a brief run (typically 10 feet or 3 metres), the wing lifts the motor and its harnessed pilot off the ground. After takeoff, the pilot gets into the seat (previously folded for takeoff) and sits suspended beneath the inflated paraglider wing. Control is available using brake toggles in each hand and a hand-held throttle.
Prices for a complete package (wing, harness, and motor) vary from approximately $6000 USD to $9500 USD.
