Try Hang Gliding as a Hobby

Research your options

There are many different ways to get into hang gliding. If you have access to hills or mountains where you can take advantage of a ridge lift that can help you gain altitude after launching from the ground, then a hill-style hang glider can be a good option for you. You don’t have to live in a mountainous area to get into hang gliding, though. As long as you have access to high-rising buildings and other structures that you can use for launch pads, you can get into the sport no matter where you live. Depending on the type of hang glider you choose, the learning curve may vary. If you go with a motorized glider, you can start flying sooner, but you will likely have to take extra precautions to keep people on the ground safe. If you go with a non-motorized glider, then you’ll likely have to wait a bit longer before you can take off, but you won’t have any extra safety concerns.

Invest in the right gear

As with any hobby, it’s important to invest in the right gear before you get started. The best way to figure out which gear is right for you is to find a local pilot and ask them about their experiences. You can also find forums online for people who fly the type of glider you’re interested in and start reading reviews and tips from fellow pilots. One of the most important aspects of your gear will be your harness. A good harness is the piece of gear that will keep you and your pilot safe, so it’s important to find a quality one that fits you properly and has the features you need. If you live in an area where you can access thermals, a foot-launch harness may be a good option for you. On the other hand, if you’re in an area where you need to foot-launch on a single day of good weather per month, then a mechanized harness may be a better option for you.

Learn with an instructor

While it’s possible to teach yourself the basics of hang gliding, there are advantages to learning with an instructor. Not only will an instructor be able to help you avoid common mistakes, but they can also help you find a reputable and safe place to start flying. Find an instructor who uses the type of glider you’re interested in. While all types of gliders have similarities, each type has its nuances that an instructor trained in a specific style can help you with. Look for an instructor who has been teaching for at least a few years and who has plenty of experience with the type of glider you want to fly.

Get the proper certifications

Make sure you are properly certified before you take off on your own. If you’re lucky enough to be in an area where you can take advantage of the FAA’s waiver program, then you can get a glider pilot airman’s certificate without having to pass a written exam. If you live somewhere that doesn’t have a waiver program, then you’ll have to pass a written exam to get a glider pilot airman’s certificate. If you want to go beyond the basics and get a commercial pilot certification, you’ll need to pass a practical exam that includes both a written and a flight test.

Take risks and jump often

Like any other activity, you won’t become good at hang gliding unless you take risks and jump often. Sure, you could always stay on the ground and read books about hang gliding, but you won’t ever truly learn how to do it unless you take to the air and make mistakes along the way. Make sure you aren’t taking unnecessary risks, but do take every chance you can get to jump in the air with your glider.

Conclusion

Hang gliding is a challenging and rewarding hobby that will require you to push your abilities as an explorer, pilot, and athlete. Before you get started with the sport, make sure you have the proper gear and certifications to ensure your safety. Once you’re ready to take off, take risks and often jump to master the sport.