Learning to Fly in Gran Canaria
Welcome back to our Beginner Paragliding Course! After four exciting days of preparation, practice, and gaining confidence in the air, Day 5 introduces students to more advanced techniques—soaring along the ridge, mastering turns, and landing autonomously. Let’s dive into how this step takes our students even closer to becoming skilled paragliders!
The Build-up: Recap of Days 1 to 4
Before we get into the action of Day 5, let’s quickly look back at how far we’ve come. By Day 1, we familiarized ourselves with the equipment and safety procedures. Day 2 was all about inflating the canopy and maintaining balance. Day 3 brought ground handling exercises and the first taste of flight with short hops, and Day 4 introduced longer glides and the thrill of sustained flight. By now, our students are gaining more control and confidence, preparing for a deeper dive into paragliding.
Day 5: Stepping Up with Soaring, Turns, and Autonomous Landings
Day 5 marks a crucial step in the journey. Today, we introduce soaring, the technique of staying aloft for extended periods by using the air currents over the ridge. With more confident takeoffs and landings, students take charge of their flights, now handling autonomous takeoffs and landings. We also start practicing 90° and 180° turns, helping them navigate with precision.
Here’s what happens on Day 5:
Pre-flight Briefing
As always, safety is the priority. Before starting the day, we go over weather conditions, flight plans, and individual goals for each student. Instructors provide feedback from the previous day’s flights, giving personalized advice and focus areas for improvement.
Equipment Check
Before the flights begin, we make sure all gear is in top condition. Harnesses, helmets, and canopies are double-checked for safety and comfort to ensure a smooth experience in the air.
Soaring and Flying Longer
Today’s focus is on extending flight time and improving soaring techniques. Students learn how to use wind currents over the ridge to stay in the air longer. It’s a thrilling experience, feeling the lift and the freedom of gliding through the skies.
Mastering Turns
In addition to soaring, students practice 90° and 180° turns. Turns are essential to navigate and control your flight path effectively. We focus on smooth and controlled movements to keep the wing stable, ensuring maximum efficiency during flight.
Autonomous Takeoffs and Landings
After several days of practicing takeoffs with assistance, Day 5 is when students take control. They learn to initiate their own autonomous takeoffs, using the skills they’ve developed over the course. Later, they also land autonomously, refining their technique to ensure safe, smooth, and controlled descents.
The Thrill of Mastery
The excitement and growth throughout the day are evident. As students make their first autonomous landings and experience the power of soaring, it becomes clear that they’re not just beginners anymore—they are well on their way to becoming skilled pilots.
What’s Next?
Day 5 brings us closer to mastering paragliding, but there’s still more to learn. In the coming days, we’ll continue to perfect these techniques, extend our flight durations, and start practicing advanced maneuvers. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey to becoming confident, skilled paragliders!
If you’re ready to take the next step in your paragliding adventure, check out the video from Day 5 below and stay tuned for more updates!
🎥 Watch the full experience here:
Soaring and Mastering the Skies in Paragliding
Thanks for choosing Paragliding Gran Canaria, the leading paragliding company in Las Palmas!