10 Surprising Facts About Paragliding You Didn’t Know

 Published by: Paragliding Bawas School, Maharashtra

Thinking of learning paragliding in Alibaug? Or curious about this incredible sport?
 At Paragliding Bawas School, we often see the same expression after someone’s first flight—pure amazement. Most people come in with ideas shaped by movies or social media, but paragliding is full of surprises.

Here are 10 lesser-known facts about paragliding that might just blow your mind—and maybe even convince you to learn paragliding right here in Alibaug, one of Maharashtra’s most scenic training locations.

1️⃣ Paragliders Don’t Have Engines – And That’s the Point

Unlike powered aircraft, paragliders are completely engine-free. We use rising air currents (thermals) to gain altitude, stay aloft, and even travel long distances. It’s as close to true free flight as humans can get.
 If you’re planning to learn paragliding in Alibaug, this is one of the first things you’ll experience during ground training.

2️⃣ You Can Fly for Hours Without Coming Down

On a good day, an experienced pilot can stay in the air for several hours using thermals. The record for the longest flight is over 11 hours!
 Your very first flight in Alibaug can last around 5–10 minutes, after which students can fly for 1–2 hours under supervision. After your first 7–10 flights, this duration increases naturally.

3️⃣ You Can Travel Over 500 Kilometres in One Flight

Yes, really. Cross-country pilots have covered distances of over 500 km in a single flight using strategic navigation and thermal hopping.
 Many of our students have achieved 2–3 hour flights in Bir and travelled 35 km during their first XC trip.

4️⃣ It’s Not Just a Sport – It’s a Self-Regulated Aviation Activity

In India and worldwide, paragliding is self-regulated and requires proper training, discipline, and aviation knowledge.
 At Paragliding Bawas, our paragliding courses in Alibaug take you from complete beginner to a confident, knowledgeable solo pilot within 10–14 days. We start at the basics and guide you all the way to advanced flying skills.

5️⃣ Paragliding Is Safer Than You Think

With modern equipment, weather awareness, and professional training, paragliding is statistically safer than driving or riding a bike.
 Good pilot judgment—knowing when to fly—is the foundation we emphasise during our paragliding training in Alibaug.

6️⃣ You Can Start with Zero Experience

You don’t need any athletic background to try paragliding.
 Tandem flights in Alibaug give you the perfect taste of flying before you move into solo training, where you become the pilot in command.

7️⃣ Paragliding Wings Are Not Parasails or Parachutes

Paragliders are highly engineered to glide long distances, climb in thermals, and stay efficient in the air.
 Understanding your wing is a key part of our beginner paragliding course in Alibaug.

8️⃣ There’s a Type of Flight for Everyone

  • Tandem Flying – Perfect for beginners

  • Ridge Soaring – Relaxed long flights

  • Thermal Soaring – Ideal for adventure lovers

  • Cross-Country Flying – For explorers

  • Acro Paragliding – Non-stop adrenaline

  • Hike & Fly – For mountain and trekking fans

Whatever your personality, you’ll find your style at Paragliding Bawas.

9️⃣ India Is a Top Destination for Paragliding

From Bir Billing to the Sahyadris of Maharashtra, India is a global hotspot for training and flying.
 Alibaug, located close to Mumbai, is one of the best locations to learn paragliding thanks to its smooth coastal winds, accessible terrain, and ideal training environment.

🔟 Once You Start, You Won’t Want to Stop

Paragliding rarely stays a one-time experience. Once you take your first flight, you’ll want more—more height, more freedom, more sky.
 Many students go on to become licensed pilots and travel the world with their wing.

✈️ Final Thoughts

Paragliding isn’t just about flying—it’s about freedom, perspective, and self-discovery. Whether you're curious, cautious, or ready to learn paragliding in Alibaug, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

At Paragliding Bawas School in Alibaug, Maharashtra, your training is safe, structured, and unforgettable. Join us to experience the joy of free flight.



Contact Us

📞 +91 9820911994
 🌐 Website: Paragliding Bawas
 📸 Instagram: paraglidingbawas
 📘 Facebook: Paragliding Bawas

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

First-Time Paragliding in India? Here’s What to Expect!

  Are you planning to try paragliding in India, for the first time? You’ve come to the right place! The most common question we get from aspiring pilots is whether they need any prior experience or knowledge before starting a paragliding course. Let us put your mind at ease— no prior experience is required ! At our paragliding school in Goa, our experienced instructors will guide you step by step, starting from the basics. A Beginner’s Guide to Paragliding in Goa This 4-day paragliding course in Goa is designed to safely get you 3–4 solo flights, weather permitting. We aim to give you the best experience possible, ensuring you enjoy the thrill of paragliding while learning the essential skills. Day 1: Ground Training We’ll begin on a flat, open field in Goa, where you’ll get acquainted with the paragliding equipment. You’ll learn how to perform an alpine and reverse takeoff . This simple and beginner-friendly technique is perfect for first-time paragliders. Your instructor will: ...
Read more

Women in Indian Paragliding.

  Do Women Face Different Challenges in Paragliding Than Their Male Counterparts? To put it frankly, we often do. 1. Joining Paragliding in India for Women Paragliding in Goa and across India offers a unique yet challenging experience for women. Most women find it harder to join the sport. This occurs globally but is especially pronounced in India, where the number of solo independent female pilots is minimal. I must say I am proud to be part of this small number but also want to see it grow to be as proportionate to men as possible. Societal Norms and Gender Perceptions After speaking with a few female solo pilots in India, it quickly became clear that learning the sport itself isn't much different for men and women. The true challenges arise from societal reinforcement. How often do young boys hear statements like, “Why do you want to go camping?” or, “Be careful, that's dangerous,” or even, “Don’t go alone”? Women, unfortunately, hear these phrases far more often, accompanie...
Read more

How to Maintain Your Paraglider: Do’s and Don’ts for Safe Flying.

  Taking care of your paraglider is key to keeping it safe, reliable, and performing at its best. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or just starting out, proper maintenance ensures your glider stays airworthy and ready for every flight. Think of it as similar to servicing your car—regular checks can prevent surprises and keep your adventures stress-free. Here’s a complete guide to paraglider maintenance, including practical do’s and don’ts, tailored to maximize your glider’s lifespan and ensure safety during your flights. Paraglider Maintenance Do’s Lay It Out Properly Before Takeoff Always lay out your glider with the trailing edge visible. This simple step helps prevent fabric damage and line tangles when launching. Inspect After Rough Landings or Tree Incidents If your glider has been caught in a tree or hit the ground hard, inspect it carefully. Look for tears or broken lines and fix any damage before your next flight. Minimize Sun Exposure After landing, pack your glider right a...
Read more