Backpack Airsports provides flight training Paraglider courses from our training facility in Sedan, South Australia. At our unique facility, we run all theory classes, ground handling training, training hill flights and PG tow flights with ridge soring being conducted at our coastal site - Tunkalilla. Our school operates under the SAFA licensing and training syllabus providing you all the required knowledge and skills to be a safe and competent pilot.  We currently offer only 1 block training session during Autumn each year to get though the majority of the course and on all weekends throughout the year when the weather is favorable to complete you training. 

If you are completely new to aviation and are looking to take to the skies for the first time or looking to convert to paragliding from another form of aviation, we facilitate our course structure to each individual so you can get the most out of your training.

Foot launch aircraft are not only a challenge physically, but also psychological.  Each step of your training has been designed to build confidence with your ability to handle the aircraft as we give you the tools to allow you to progress along with your training safely. For more information in relation to foot launch aircraft considerations, refer to the foot launch considerations information page 

Our Paraglider Course is structured over a minimum of 9 days and we train in a variation of weather conditions to give you the greatest exposure to what you may expect when you’re flying away from the training environment. This includes nil wind launching, light to moderate wind ground handling skills along with how to deal with wind gusts.

Our courses are limited to a maximum of 3 students to increase students one-on-one with the instructor to accelerate your learning. Basic English language skills are required to enroll on this course. 
 
What to expect on course

Day 1 - meet your instructor and complete all the required paperwork. Familiarise yourself with the equipment you will be using and learn basic theory on how paragliders fly.  We will also get outside and start your ground handling plus you will get the opportunity to simulate to feel what it is like being suspended in a paragliding harness.

Day 2-4 – First up you will get the chance to go on a tandem flight to experience the controls of flying and the amazing views we see.  Then straight into ground handling as this will be the foundation before you can go flying.  When the weather is not favourable to be out on the training field, we will be in the classroom going through your workbook to maximise your day.  The theory will go hand-in-hand with your practical experience you gain on the field.
cDay 4-7 – Once you have demonstrated ground competent handling skills, we then head to our very own training hill to practice your launch and landings before conducting towing.  During your course, you will complete at least 20 tow flights, starting from just a few feet above the ground working all the up to 500ft. Here you will learn pitch and pendulum stability, ‘S’ turns, figure ‘8s’, 360 degree turns, speed system and big ears, as well perfecting your landing skills.

Day 8-9 – We then consolidate all what you have been taught and finish off the training learning how to ridge sore at South Australia’s largest coastal flying site – Tunkalilla.

 What you will learn on course
- Theory of flight
- Rules of the air
- Meteorology and the ability to assess flight conditions
- The lay out and pack up of a paraglider
- Pre-flight checks on glider, harness and other equipment
- Ground handling skills in various wind strengths
- Launch techniques – Forward and Reverse
- Smooth and accurate Airspeed Control
- Landing Techniques and approaches
- Rear riser steering
- Safe use of Speed System
- Ability to deploy and recover from “Big Ears”
- Co-ordinated, smooth 180 and 360 degree turns
- Soaring skills and a minimum of 30 launch and landings

- This course also includes a Tow Endorsement valued $350!

Paraglider Flight Training Cost
​New Pilot: A minimum of 30 flights from several flying sites is required by SAFA to receive a PG2 Pilots license. 

Full Licence course (Approximately 9-12 days over a number of weeks or months) is $2970 which includes all required equipment for training, theory/exams, and tow endorsement.

Important Information: You can bring your own gear or take advantage of using the schools gear. If you decide to bring your own gear it must be airworthy and of a suitable rating for student use in accordance with SAFA policy. Any gear that does not met the above requirements will not be allowed for use by students.  The schools equipment availability is subject to students' weight and size.  

PARAGLIDER (PG) FLIGHT TRAINING