Powered Paragliding News

Communications For Paramotorists

Aug 12, 2010

When I went to Australia last Feb the fellow who put me up (and put up with me) for 8 days was Richard Shelton. Turns out, he's an electronics wiz who makes a living building and selling tiny cameras for the model world. Well now he's put those talents to work on our communications needs. Unfortunately I haven't gotten to try his handiwork but can speak highly of Richard. He's got a system that integrates a cell phone, comm radio and music for use by paramotor (and other) pilots. At the quantity he deals with the price is remarkable. In fact, I'd get him to raise his prices so he keeps doing it. They're not cheap, but neither is building quality stuff. And lord know I'm not going to be building them!

He's got a great PDF with the prices and so forth but get the latest from his HiCam web site.

Paramotor Give Away

Aug 11, 2010

I want one.

Paradrenalin, the Nirvana importer in Arizona, is raffling off a brand new Simonini Rodeo. Well, I assume that it's new given the value listed. I've flown one and found it to be a good ride (new pilots want the smaller-prop version). The $25 ticket can be purchased from Paradrenalin in advance, or at the Monument Valley Gathering where it will be drawn and you do not have to be present to win. That event runs Friday, Oct 8 through Sunday the 10th, 2010 (see the Event Calendar). If you're a gambler, this sounds like mighty good odds.

You do not have to be present to win. Concact Ryan Shaw at 602-540-9929 or Skype: ParadrenalinUSA for more details.

French Electric At Basse Ham

July 24, 2010

There is life in Electric Land and it whoed itself at Basse Ham.

Louis Fourdan of Parawatt hade a showing of his drive mechanism which is also being used by U.S. pilot Jean Beney. You can see the videos here and here. More full coverage is included at ElectricPPG.com. Louis can be contacted at +33 1 42 37 20 06 or through email at fourdanlouis@yahoo.fr.

Russian Paramotor Competition

July 22, 2010

This came across my inbox: A cool-sounding competition is planned in Russia.

It seems somehow strange that, while our government leaders hover over their respective doomsday buttons, we angle for another reason to paramotor with each other. And another good reminder of how people are basically the same wherever you go. Fun ones, mean ones, jerks and the playful--all in about the same percentages and all over the world. OK, I digress.

The Russians I've met have been of the fun, playful type so I'm sorry to be missing out on this one. Here's the scoop:

Name: 5'th EVDO-CUP - Autumn 2010
Place: Russia, Moscow
Date: September, 2010 (3 days)
Prize fund: 1500$
The first PPG Freestyle Tournament
Freestyle differs from usual kind of competitions because all exercises done at low height, almost near the ground. And all pilots depends on time-factor.
EVDO-CUP INTERNATIONAL WEB-SITE: www.evdo-cup.ucoz.com
5'th EVDO-CUP PAGE: http://www.evdo-cup.ucoz.com/index/5_39_th_evdo_cup_autumn_2010/0-11
4'th EVDO-CUP Virtual Tour (Flash Panorama) - http://www.voskresensk3d.ru/panorams/Eudocup.html

Enjoy!

Is This the World's Smallest Paramotor?

Apr 27, 2010

This came through my inbox a few days and, being somewhat a connoisseur of thimble-thrusted machines, I was intrigued.

David Frank, from Israel, has fashioned a paramotor from Radio-Controlled big scale airplane technology. He calls it, rightfully so, "Nano." The unit's dry weight, including a Supair PPG harness, is just under 20 pounds. He's breaking the motor in now so we don't know if thee paltry push will be enough but, if it is, that has to be a record. It's 29" prop is identical to that on my direct-drive Solo 210 Fly that still serves yeoman duty. But it weighs almost twice as much. This will be interesting.

David is an Acro pilot so all he wants his puny pusher for is to get enough altitude to let him turn the world upside down or soar in lift.

If all goes well with the prototype he's gonna build an electric start to better enable in-air restarts.

Here are some videos on his efforts: YouTube1 & YouTube2.

Albuquerque's Paramotor City For Sale

Nov 1, 2009

A lot of incredible flying has gone on here but Jerry and Michelle are moving on. They'll still be running the business, and from the same general location, but from a more modest  site. More here.

FootFlyer.com Traffic Records

Nov 1, 2009

FootFlyer.com's website has exceeded 2000 page views per day starting Sept, 2009. Thanks for your support. We'll do our best to provide unbiased coverage of powered paragliding as is humanly possible along with resources and training information

An interesting observation is the effect of Fox TV's Sports Science show where they had me land in a boxing ring. Although there may have been some uptick in page views, it was fleeting. It goes to show that, in spite of what we fliers may think, the general public really isn't much interested beyond the "wow, that's cool" comment, which is normally followed by "crazy, too, I'd never do that!"

When I first got into powered paragliding in 1999 it seemed that it would explode once Joe Schmoe discovered it. Then I realized that it really wasn't that easy of a thing to do, that it takes work and really doesn't get to be fun until a certain skill level is obtained. Not something for Peter Public who is generally petrified at the thought of being aloft, let alone flying the craft himself.

So no, it really probably won't ever become a big thing. Lets face it, if you're successfully foot launching a paramotor, you've achieved something of significant difficulty. Just because someone nails nearly every launch doesn't mean it's easy, it just means they've practiced. Every single launch is barely successful.

Thanks again for your support and keep those suggestions coming.

Animal Preservation Org Seeks Volunteer Paramotor Pilots

Sep 12, 2009

They're ready for paramotor pilots. We just got word today that the Wildlife Action Group International in Malawi is ready to do their herding work and are seeking skilled paramotor pilots that would be willing to come help. They'll provide food, lodging, (consider this an adventure—think hut, not Hilton), local transportation and a launch site, even if they have to cut it. See the news report below.

This is serious business. The elephants have killed 3 (one more than our Aug 17 report) mostly because people interact with them improperly.

If you can spare the time and get yourself and your gear to Lilongwe Airport in Malawi and back, they'd love to hear from you. The full request is below on the Aug 17 entry.

USPPA Online Testing

Sep 11, 2009

If you haven't gone through the USPPA ratings program, it might worth considering. For one thing, you can get up to $200 back just for earning the PPG3 rating. Most pilots would qualify for the PPG2, whose biggest challenge is making 3 of the last 4 landings within 40 feet of a target set by your instructor. Sounds easy but next time you're out go draw the circle and try it.

Also, the online testing has been improved with more relevant questions and more material covered. Plus the questions have been worked over to be quicker and more discriminating at the same time. Online testing for the PPG1 and PPG2 is available to all USPPA members. To take the online tests, log into the members services area and select "Online Testing."

Animal Preservation Org Seeks Volunteer Paramotor Pilots

Aug 17, 2009

We got a request for help from the Chairman of the Wildlife Action Group International in Malawi. They're putting up an electric fence to protect the village areas from crop raiding elephants (see www.wildlifeactiongroup.org) but can't close the fence since 10 elephants are still on the outside. So they're looking for one or two skilled paramotor pilot volunteers who could help coral the elephants into the preserve.

These elephants are outside the reserve in farmer's fields. A helicopter is cost prohibitive and ground vehicles can't manage the surface. They feel that one or two excellent paramotor pilots would be able to direct the elephants back towards the reserve using their motor noise and possibly an additional siren.

We would need such an pilot for about 6 weeks, but maybe the task could be shared by several pilots as an adventure holiday. They aren't  in a position to pay salaries and therefore hope for volunteers but will provide food, accommodation and local transport.

If you are willing/able to help, contact Georg Kloeble, Wildlife Action Group International e.V. at the moment in Thuma Forest Reserve, Malawi. Mail:kloeble@wag-malawi.org
Tel:00265 993214979.

We asked a few questions and here are the answers:

What is the urgency?
The reason for the emergency fence is that the elephants killed 2 people within the last 2 month. If we can not put that fence up within a short time and get the elephants back into the reserve they might be shot or translocated.

What are the accommodations?
Accommodation in our bush camp in the Reserve. Beautiful area. Hills and mountains in the slopes of the Great Rift Valley not far from Lake Malawi.
Have a look at the link below in Google Maps: Have a look at the satellite picture. Google Map

What is the terrain like?
Flat in the village areas, some rocky outcrops, towards the Forest reserve 500m bush and trees

Where would the pilot launch from?
Have to locate a site, but will prepare a site in the reserve if necessary!

What are the aviation laws in Malawi?
There is no provisional law for paragliders as far as I know. But know that trikes from RSA were flying here. Should not be a problem.

Are any special permits required for such flights?
Don't think so!

Would aviation fuel be available and two-stroke oil?
I will organize it if you provide specifications.

v2 PPG Plans Now Downloadable from PPGPlans.com

July 22, 2009

The downloadable plans have been added to PPGPlans.com for the version 2 Skybolt. This is, by far, the most widely built plans-built paramotor ever designed, made easier by the fact that no welding is required through an ingenious combination of square and round tubing. The plans site had been shut down by its owner/designer, Jeff Baumgartner, who was moving on to other things. Rather than seeing this great system go dark, FootFlyer.com purchased the website and rights to the plans and is making them available under a limited license for no charge.

Homebuilding is not for everybody but, for those who choose to do so, Skybolt plans represent, by far, the best solution. To see or download the plans, visit www.PPGPlans.com.

Jeff Baumgartner created a valuable resource for the paramotor community and it is our desire to help insure its continuance.

FootFlyer.com bought PPGPlans.com

July 15, 2009

Jeff Baumgartner designed and made available the most widely built paramotor plans for our sport. I (Jeff Goin) had flown both versions of the unit and was impressed. Enough that I did a review and dedicated a special page to home building. When he decided to devote more time to his family and and get out of the business, he took down his website (PPGPLans.com) and discontinued sales, servicing only those orders that had come in.

That seemed like a shame since these were, by far, the most viable plans out there and resulted in a machine that was easy to build and comfortable to fly. So we talked and, on July 10, agreed to the transfer. I built a new website and will be making the plans available within a week.

Jeff B. did a great job and we are both happy that his work will live on. For more information, please visit www.PPGPlans.com.
 

Miniplane Electric?

June 15, 2009

Miniplane had an bare electric motor and prop mounted to a frame with a sign advertising the development of an electric model within six months. Electric guru Mateo is putting some industrial electronics to use in an effort to create a robust control circuit that handles the high wattages required. It would use Lithium Polymer battery technology and a Brushless AC motor.

Yuneec Electric Paramotor To Visit OSH

June 15, 2009

Yuneec has paid for two exhibition spots at EAA's OSHkosh fly-in scheduled for July 27 through August 2, 2009. One spot, to show off their fully electric airplane, will be in the general display area. Their other spot will be in the ultralight area.

Another significant development is that they have reportedly begun production. Unspecified upgrades to the prototype we flew in April 2008 have improved the unit in several ways, including a warning system for impending power loss when the battery runs too low. We hope to complete more test flights and report on the outcome here and on ElectricPPG.com

Paramotor Magazine Giving Away A Paramotor

Apr 11, 2009 (Correction)

Paramotor Magazine has announced a very generous giveaway during their latest subscriber drive. Kobra is supplying the first prize motor, their new Carbon Sport model. Paramania is providing 2nd place with a new wing, and third place comes from Nirvana with a set of accessories including their Agama water rescue system, Full Contact Helmet and flying suit.

For more information, visit www.ParamotorMag.com.

First Production Rotary Paramotor Engine

May 26, 2009

Parajet has announced a new production rotary engine light enough for paramotoring. It will, of course, find many other applications but, if it comes out as advertised, it will be a great step forward in power to weight ratios. There are two versions of the Rotron, as its called, a compact model at 160 cc and a larger 294 cc version.  They will only be sold on Parajet frames and dubbed Cyclone models.

Specs on the machine are impressive and we'll look forward to trying one out when the opportunity comes. One claim that is particularly enticing is that of zero vibration, a unique capability of rotary engines. Fuel injection is also an option. They still apparently use mixed gas to save the weight of an oil sump and pumping system.

Parajet's Jim Edmondson said, in a news blurb for Paramotor Magazine, that fuel efficiency is better than an equivalent piston engine and that mechanical failure should be much less likely. Of course time-in-service is always the best teller of reliability but they have overcome previous issues dogging rotary engines with better materials and technology, especially for the rotor tips.

Production starts "soon" with 15 motors of each size being produced and offered for sale. They're not cheap, but then leading technologies rarely are. The cost will be about US $10,000 with a 50% deposit required. For complete information, visit Parajet.com.
 

Electric PPG For Sale

May 14, 2009

German paramotor maker Fresh Breeze, teamed up with Swing, is now selling electric paramotors, or at least advertising them. The brochure we got was in German and we'll have an English version as soon as Possible. No word on whether or not the motor has landed on U.S. shores but, when it does, we'll try to review it promptly.

The motor is based on the Sport-X frame and sports a 130 cm prop spun by 10kW electric motor. Weight is listed at 33kg (72 lbs). The brochure seems to suggest that it will fly a 78 kg (170 lb) pilot for 23 minutes of powered flight time give or take 10% for wing efficiency. Cost is listed as €6990 which would be around $10,000US.

Hopefully we'll see a production version at be able to demo it soon.
 

Police Using PPG

May 05, 2009

The Palm Bay Police department has established a program to use paramotors for certain, appropriate police missions. They have 4 officers on board including two where were already paramotor pilots and thought the craft could fill certain missions more effectively and at much lower cost than other means.

Police departments have special exemptions that allow them to operate these Part 103 craft legally in this application.

Phil Russman, pictured on the pole, is providing the training in a rigorous package that includes USPPA certification. They are learning both foot launched and wheel launched flight in an endeavor that has garnered wide publicity, from local news to national news. ABC is reported to have a piece planned within the next week for one of their national news broadcasts.

Police pilots are learning on Dudek wings and Paratoys motors, some of which has been provided at cost or donated for some period of time.

The program, dubbed S.O.A.R. for Search Operations Aerial Response. Phil tells us that they are very aware of the limitations of the craft and have put safety above all else, knowing that there's no point in going out if you're likely to need rescuing yourself.

Phil plans a video and more updates at his website, www.LiteTouchFilms.com.

New Blackhawk Engine and Paratoys Website

May 03, 2009

Paratoys has launched a new engine, the BlackHawk 185. Components are made in Japan and are assembled at the Paratoys shop in northern California. Some parts common to the Aero Corsair Black Devil 172 engine. They report 25.5 hp and up to 150 pounds of static thrust, depending on prop size and other factors. For more information, visit http://www.paratoys.com/bh185paramotor.html.

The Paratoys Company, which recently sold to Mike and Michelle Robinson, has also launched a slick new website, done by paramotor pilot Brian Thivierge. Web work is what he does, and obviously does it well. Their URL remains the same at www.Paratoys.com.

Training is conducted from the Robinson's large, and very scenic, ranch located about an hour southeast of Sacramento. It is where the most recent Paratoys Fly-In was held and is long enough for small airplanes to takeoff and land on.
 

New Paratour Quad

Apr 25, 2009

Eric Dufour of Paratour had introduced a new wheeled option to his existing lineup of paramotors. The SkyKart quad portends greater stability and safety by virtue of combining a wider wheelbase with a stout roll cage system that protects the pilot.

It also features the "steering bar," a device that limits brake authority for new pilots so they are less likely to overcontrol on early flights. This is optional and can be removed if the pilot wants to.

For more information, visit www.Paratour.com.
 

Top80 USA Closed

Apr 24, 2009

Brad Weiss, who for several years maintained the parts inventory for Top 80 paramotors under an agreement with the inporter has discontinued the business. The websites, Top80USA and Top80USA2 are no longer active. Those wanting parts should now contact the importer, Francesco DeSantis at francesco@powerglider.biz.

The Top 80 engine is currently being sold on Miniplane Paramotors, PAP's and I-Flyers.

Stolen Paramotors

Apr 12, 2009

Former world champion and World Air Games competitor Mathieu Rouanet had just finished a 3-month expedition in South America. An experience he described as magical but, unfortunately, reality came when both he and his friend, Emilia, had their paramotors stolen in Cusco, Chile.

Emilia's motor was in a black wheeled travel box with no logo on it. The aluminum frame is painted red. Itframe , box type "travel box" with wheels. It has a carbon fiber 2-blade prop with no logo on it. The motor is a Radne Raket.

Mathieu's motor was also in a big black case. His frame is gray steel with fishing style net. The frame comes apart in 4 parts and uses a Ros 125 motor with Helix brand two-blade prop.

If you come accross this motor, please contact Mathieu.
 

First Commercially Available Electric PPG

Apr 07, 2009

This date, April 7, 2009 is to be remembered as the day electric propulsion started for the masses. Although we haven't gotten to test fly the products, we have gotten independent verification of their existence. Finally there is an Electric Paramotor being made available for retail sale. Here is the press release.

Electric driven PPG's are on market and can be ordered from now on.

At the exhibition and airshow AERO Friedrichshafen (April 2-5, 2009) SWIFT/Fresh Breeze and PAP Team Germany showed their new electric driven paragliders both equipped with our drive chain based on HPD 10. These 2 different drive units have already got the approval by German DULV (FB) and DMSV (PAP) and can be ordered from now on. Together with an electrified version of the light trike Dragonfly from FLYLIGHT (GB) and Toni Roth's E-Lift - both also using our HPD10.

Testpilots showed impressive flights at the airshow on these motors. Strong climb-rates of more than 2m/s and very low noise-level of less than 50dB(A) set new standards for electric flying. Both drives are based on standard frames FB/Sportix and PAP 1400, using propellers of 1.3m diameter at 2000 Rpm. Different types and size of batteries can be supplied to stay airborn from 20 - 60 min without themalling.

For detailed specifications and prices ask SWING www.swing.de or www.papteam.de.

For those who prefer to make their own project we can supply drive chains (battery, charger, motor, controller, propeller and management system) directly. Ask www.geigerengineering.de for details.

Fuel Injection System Paramotor

Mar 18, 2009

Bailey Aviation has announced the arrival of electronic fuel injection system for paramotors. It was unveiled for the first time and flown at Las Candelas 2009 and is expected to be be available on all new V3-180 and 4V-200 engines as an option "soon." Initial fuel consumption test suggest a 15-20% improvement over the carbureted engine with a slight power increase.

See Bailey Aviation for more information.
 

Green Eagle PPG/PPC

Feb 28, 2009

Wheels just got bigger and the line between PPC and PPG blurred a bit more. The new Green Eagle PPC is out. They plan on doing assembly videos of both PPC, PPG, and PPG to PPC conversion kit instillation, torque guides, and others.

The FAR 103 version has the Black Polymer Rims verses heavier metal rims. This one weighed in at 238 which is 8 pounds heavier due to dual controls as a PPC. The PPG weighs in at 230 you can go with a lighter seat and take off 7 more pounds.

For more information visit USParagliding.com or write to ashtonb32@yahoo.com.

Thailand Paramotor and Prop Maker Selling To U.S.

Feb 11, 2009

A new entrant to the prop and paramotor maker is offering gear to the U.S. market. We don't have experience with them yet but hopefully they will be able to deliver as promised. ParamotorPropeller.com has complete paramotor, parts and price lists.

You can see the complete list of gear makers and paramotor-related services on the Resources page.

U.S. Fields a Paramotor Team

Jan 19, 2009

It's finally happening. The U.S. put up pilot into a global competition and they did quite well when pitted against counterparts flying the same tasks worldwide. Enough so that 3 were invited to take part in an international World Air Games scheduled for June, 2009 in Turin Italy. See USPPA.org for details. Yours truly was among those selected.

Thanks to Roy Beisswinger who put this thing together and to the other volunteers, especially David Rogers and Jeff Steinkamp who have put tons of energy into making the whole thing work.

England Gets Unlimited Fuel

Jan 19, 2009

We like to fancy our situation in the U.S. as among the most flexible but lately that has not so much been the case. Geoff Soden of ParamotorsUK sent us a note detailing how the CAA, England's FAA equivalent, has removed their fuel limit. We still have to adhere to the 5 gallon limit even for foot launchers. Not that many pilots would want to heft more than 30 pounds of fuel on their backpack units but it would be nice to have the option.

Kudos to an open government agency.

New Footflyer Products & Resources

Oct 11, 2008

Want another chance to qualify for the 2009 air games? You'll have to travel farther than Greenville, IL (unless you live in Europe)

2009 WAG Qualifier in Italy

Aug 9, 2008

Want another chance to qualify for the 2009 air games? You'll have to travel farther than Greenville, IL (unless you live in Europe) since this one is going to be held in Torino Aeritalia Airport, Italy. Pilots attending may have some advantage if they qualify because the organizers plan on flying the tasks with pylons in addition to doing them with sticks.

It's for paramotors and weightshifters and will be run on 27-28th September 2008. For more information, visit http://fivu.it/wag2009/index_en.htm.

New Importer for Dudek Paragliders

Aug 8, 2008

Ray McMahon has become the U.S. importer for Dudek paragliders. Dudek makes a number of models but is most famous for their reflex gliders, including the Plasma. FootFlyer hopes to review this one by the end of September, 2008 and will have it posted.

Low Hook-In Fresh Breeze Revealed

July 24, 2008

Fresh Breeze has introduced a new paramotor with low hook-ins and a dramatically different pivoting arm system. Southern Skies has an example of it and hopefully, I'll get my hands on it to review someday. It has some similarities to the Miniplane's system which I've reviewed and like. Only testing will tell.

Basse Ham 2008 Update

June 28th 2008

It's the largest gathering of PPG pilots ever to grace one field. Jeff Hamann reports there were 525 registered pilots and a mass launch apparently 325 lofted to a new record. He says there has been one injury, a midair, and the pilot is OK.

PPG Bible Edition 2 Story

June 6th 2008

The initial print of books was done in May 2006 with the expectation of lasting 3 to 5 years. That we ran out much earlier is mostly good and we took opportunity to improve. There have been many changes in the sport over the last two years and I'm amazed at what I've learned. For one thing, I went from having only flown 3 trike flights to having flown nearly every wheel-launch configuration out there. And wheels have become a bigger part of the sport. The new book reflects that reality while still remaining foot-centric.

Besides paramotoring, I've learned a lot about book production, photography, and Photoshop techniques. One that I've been using in magazine articles for the past couple years is the composite, where you overlay multiple shots of action on one picture with the same background. It conveys timing, an otherwise missing element from still pictures. The forward launch is a great example. There's a spread across two pages in Chapter 5 that features over 15 shots of a launch along with description. It's like video on paper and the new book uses it extensively. Plus, we paid extra for "bleeds," where the pictures/graphics can go all the way to ("bleed off") the edge. 

We've improved explanations, overall color, added lots of new pictures, more relevant pictures, added new diagrams and improved existing ones. New new technologies have been added along with new information, corrections and much more. There are going to be typos and errors but they have been greatly reduced, especially in substance.

We printed 30% more books this time so, since the "pipeline" is already full, can realistically expect this to last 3 to 5 years.

Hope you enjoy!
 

Air Festival of El Yelmo

Added June 4, 2008, Press release May 26th 2008

One of the major appointments for paragliding lovers in Spain, the International Air Festival (FIA), will be back on July 3 to 6 at the foot of the emblematic mountain of El Yelmo in the Sierra of Segura, province of Jaen.

Like in its previous editions, this great celebration of the aerial sports and activities developed in the air will have plenty of spectacles, by outstanding acrobats and flying teams of first level. Some of the highlights of the program are the paramotor night show of lights and fantasy by Paraddax (also known as “European Paramotor Team”); the return of the paragliding acro team SAT, formed by world champions of this discipline who perform the most radical manoeuvres; the Red Bull BASE jump team and the squad of parachutists of the Army, or the acrobatic airplanes of the RACE (Royal Air Club of Spain) carving the sky at full speed.

Among the new activities for this ninth edition, the Festival organizes a special endurance competition of mountain and paragliding, in which the pilot-athletes will have to make their way on foot to the takeoff of El Yelmo carrying their flying gear, to then fly down to the goal at the Festival premises. Also new is the 1st Paramotor Open of Freestyle, with impressive ground-skimming tasks at high speed that can be observed by the public. This is a qualifying competition for the World Air Games of Turin 2009.

Born in 1999 as Air Cinema Festival, El Yelmo keeps this section dedicated to the latest productions related to air activities, so it is a great place to learn about ground-breaking feats, epic trips in the lightest aircrafts or aerial adventures in the most remote corners of the world, through the films in competition coming from different countries. The films will be projected every night on the main stage of the FIA and in the Cinema by day, inside the air-conditioned Fair. Registration is still open for filmmakers who want to submit their works to the contest.

For pilots and companions looking for new sensations, there will be tandem flights in paragliders and helicopter rides in the area, games and workshops for the children, and astronomical observations from the mountain every night. At night, the celebration or ‘fiesta’ of the Air will continue with batucadas (Brazilian and Africa rythms), DJs sessions and concerts by well known Spanish bands. The objective of El Yelmo Festival is that all the participants enjoy the most playful and visual side of flying in a fun weekend for both aficionados and those who feel curious about this activity.

You can see the complete program as well as information on the event and the zone in their Website: www.fiaelyelmo.com. Or email comunicacion@fiaelyelmo.com.
 

Website Added

May 23, 2008

The website http://www.FlyPPG.com has been separated from FootFlyer and its own content added. There's still a link here but it will have it's own little verbiage with a slightly different twist on why humans should fly PPG.

English Exclusion

Apr 18, 2008 Geoff Soden

The British Microlight Aircraft Association (BMAA) has dealt a blow to foot-launched paramotor pilots. After a failed attempt at updating the

ir training program, insurance was not renewed by the underwriter. The organization then stopped issuing foot launch ratings. Hopefully we can find out more details about what exactly they couldn't agree on that was seen as so necessary to the insurers. The relevance is that, if it's bad for the insurance company, might it not be bad for the pilots?

Geoff Soden adds "If anyone is about to start training In the UK or abroad we suggest that you check the validity of the course's on offer or BMAA instructor training overseas which will now be null and void."

The syllabus is still useful as a guide and the organization will continue to support foot-launched flight in other ways. The British Hang gliding and Paragliding Association (BHPA) also represents paramotor pilots in the U.K. Here is the BMAA Press Release.
 

First Production Prototype Electric To Fly

Apr 4, 2008, Updated Apr 18, 2008 The Electric Paramotor came. And it was good. Here is the review.

The Electric Paramotor cometh. Clive Coote of Yuneec International tells us that the first production electric paramotor has been Fedex'd to the U.S. and will debut at Sun-N-Fun. Flights may be made elsewhere due to the many flight restrictions there. Clive has offered us the opportunity to try the machine and a review will be posted, including pictures, here on FootFlyer and on ElectricPPG.com. I hope to fly it Tuesday at Sun-N-Fun and again on Wednesday in a venue with no flight restrictions, maybe Christmas, FL.

Experienced pilots (PPG3 or equivalent) are welcome to try the machine. There will only be one battery pack so we'll get to see how it holds up to a couple days of moderately heavy use. This is likely the iceberg's tip of fundamental change in our sport. Electrics won't replace gas engines for a long time but will become a significant portion of the market as technology improves. A look at the Radio Controlled model airplane arena provides some prescience: probably half of every R/C model sold is electric powered now. Yuneec seems to be taking the Tesla Motors tack, bringing a classy looking performer to market right off the bat.

We'll soon see!

Flight For Life

Mar 29, 2008

An international team of pilots is joining together in a first-ever crossing of oceans along the Panama Canal. The flight will be publicized on Panamanian TV, in Paramotor and in Powered Sport Flying Magazines. Eight pilots, representing Panama, Canada, the U.S., and Germany will participate in the 40 mile aerial trek over jungle shrouded land, roughly paralleling the famous Canal.

Remy Swaab and others have worked through the many bureaucratic hurdles to make the flight possible. The entire experience will be documented by Phil Russman of Lite Touch Films, creator of the very popular "Why We Fly" and "Risk & Reward" DVD's. The team of pilots featured in "Why We Fly" is being reunited for the mission and several of them will remain for a second segment aboard Jeff Hamann's catamaran yacht, the Gloriamaris.

Kobra PPG

Mar 28, 2008

Italian paramotor maker Kobra has lit up production as of February, 2008. The machines look to be a similar style to the Pap, with low attachments and pivoting arms. They use the Sky 100 liquid cooled motor that seems to be making a bit of a comeback. There are no U.S. importers as of this writing.

For more information, visit KobraPPG.com. It's a nicely presented site but may take a while to load the flash-heavy content.

Fresh Breeze Tanks Up

Mar 10, 2008

For those who want to go long, Fresh Breeze has introduced new, larger, gas tanks for several of their frames. The 13 Liter tank for the Snap will probably fly a 170 pound pilot on a Silex type wing for over 3 hours.

The Monster/Solo frames also benefit from a 16.5 Liter tank. Pictures and more information is available here.

Illinois Ultralight Safety Seminar

Mar 09, 2008

A sizely group of ultralighters and potentials came to Springfield, IL on Saturday, March 8 for a seminar on various topics. A number of useful presentations were given and gear was shown on site.

I was the sideshow, giving a presentation on something I'm barely qualified to do, let alone talk about with authority: flying the Nanolight hang glider trike. Yes, I own one of these in partnership with Harry Rosset and Roy Beisswinger, the organizer, asked me to do a presentation. The talk was about perspective, not expertise, since I don't have much time on the craft and only have time in the one craft, a Samba. Frank Beagle MC'd and was most gracious. It was good to see many familiar faces.

If you've not been to one, I highly recommend it. Jeff Steinkamp displayed his PPG and, next time, we'll have to give him company.  The seminar is usually in February but building problems prompted a postponement.

Convention News

Mar 08, 2008

As most have gathered, there is no convention this year in Florida but there are a couple fly-ins happening. The first at Paul Czarnecki's place near Naples and next at Mike Britt/Eric Dufour's place near Orlando. Eric's is limited to 50 pilots so let them know right away (info@paratour.com) if you plan to be there.

The good news is that we are planning a convention for 2009 and it will be at a large, wide-open field either near Panama Beach or Orlando. We've were granted liability insurance to have a convention this year but it was just too late in the game to put something together. Having insurance is a big, big deal because all the large venues we looked at required it. USPPA will be setting up the insurance.

Wing Maintenance DVD's Released

Feb 12, 2008

Michelle Daniele of American Flyer PPG, also known as Paramotor City West, has released two DVD's about wing maintenance and inspection.

The first video, Understanding Your Wing Inspection comes in a CD (media file) or DVD and includes the following: 1) Step by step explanations of the inspection process, 2) Slide show with full color pictures, 3) Explains of what all the test numbers mean, 4) other services offered.

Next up is Wing Tips, a 45 minute video to familiarize pilots with their wing, how to care for it and how to perform small tasks without having to send it in to a repair facility. It is set up in chapter form for easy access to the area of your interest and includes: a. How to fold your wing, b. How to store your wing, c. Familiarization and wing terminology, d. How to clean your wing, e. How to change and order a line, f. How to measure a line correctly, g. Checking your trimmers, h. Proper brake line knot, i. How to make small repairs.

Understanding Your Wing Inspection is $14.99 plus $3.00 shipping and Wing Tips is $29.95 plus $3.00 shipping.

You can order the videos from www.AmericanFlyerPPG.com. If the paypal is not setup, you can email payment, using paypal, to information@americanFlyerPPG.com.

Tandem Exemption Efforts

Feb 2, 2008

As of January 31, 2008 the tandem exemption that allowed two-place PPG expired. FAR 103 has always been for single place flying but, to allow safer learning, an exemption was granted to several organizations to allow tandem training.

I've working with USUA and USPPA in an effort to get a new exemption. The USPPA submitted an exemption request in 2002 and worked out the details with Sue Gardner. After Sue left her post nothing else was done. The USPPA joined forces with USUA and didn't act further on its own application.

The USPPA's proposal is based on the USHPA's (hang gliding and paragliding association) tandem program where a tandem pilot must first have significant experience and demonstrate high-level skills.

On Feb 1, I talked with an inspector at AFS 800 where the exemption requests for this are handled. He assured me that they did not intend to leave us hang. He also reiterated they wanted to make sure any exemption we get doesn't overlap those craft under Sport Pilot. The sport pilot rule specifically excludes PPGers by virtue of the wing and/or motor attaching to a harness rather than a frame.

The gist is that we will be getting an exemption in some form but probably only be for foot launch. That would be unfortunate but we must do what we can. If the USPPA exemption request is approved, it would be much like the USHPA program where prospective tandem pilots acquire experience flying with other rated pilots before being loosed on new students. The prospective tandem pilot must also be an instructor which, surprisingly, is not required of USHPA tandem pilots.

We should know more on Feb 5 and I'll pass any news on here.

Coming Competition

Jan 19, 2008

Who's the best pilot on the planet? We're about to find out.

Several developments and some committed individuals have combined to finally give U.S. paramotorists their chance to compete on a world stage and a level playing field. And you won't even need a passport. Nor will you need a fast wing—this one is all about precision flying. No economy tasks and no cross country tasks.

The FAI is selecting the best 100 pilots to compete in 2009's World Air Games.

Each country will host a competition using exactly the same rules, scoring system, course dimensions and requirements as every other country. Total scores will be tabulated then compared across all countries and only the top 100 pilots will be invited to Italy for a low-level match up of high level top dogs.

The big news is that Roy Beisswinger, Powered Sport Flying radio show host and Powered Sport Flying magazine columnist, will be hosting the U.S. event in Greenville, IL. You can bet your booty that I and the Enterprise will be there. Hopefully we'll also see Stan Kasica and Eric Dufour (previous U.S. Champions). Eric is, unfortunately (since he usually beats me), my winning pick if we can get his lovely loving wife, Elisabeth, to go along with it.

Thanks to Roy for stepping up to the plate. His flying area is huge and he's got plentiful expertise in hosting large competition events. This will be an FAI sanctioned event that the USUA and USPPA will likely sponsor. Don't miss out. Can't wait. Better start practicing!

Dates aren't set yet but we'll keep you posted here and elsewhere. They'll probably be sometime in July or August when the weather is best. Roy will be on the PPG Radio Show soon to talk about it.

Gloves

Jan 14, 20087

Darren from Connecticut Paragliding shared this tidbit for cold weather flyers. He found some gloves at Home Depot that are great for paramotoring and only cost about $10 a pair. He uses them at his school and has found them effective, especially given their cost.

Electric PPG to U.S.

Jan 7, 2008

Electrons may yet propel us. Yuneec International is planning to bring several of their machines to the U.S. national convention tentatively planned (hoped) for April 3 through 6. Even if the convention doesn't happen there will be some event on that date and pilots will be able to see the electrons fly.

Yuneec has reported that three pilots are in South China flying the motors to wring out any possible problems.

More details are on www.ElectricPPG.com.