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Hang glider pilots launch and land the aircraft using their legs. The pilots who are in a harness attached to the wing, use thermals or ridge lift to remain airborne.
Popularity
Since its inception in the 1970s hang gliding has become a relitavly safe and popular pastime, with clubs and groups found throughout the country.
Location
Hang gliding can be carried out from hill or mountainsides throughout the country, even low flat areas can enjoy hang gliding launches by using an assisted tow launch.
Age
There is no lower age restriction on tandem hang gliding (commonsense must prevail), however a person must be sixteen years of age to fly solo. There is no upper age limit, although because of the phisical demands this a younger persons activity.
Ability
Hang gliding is an activity needing much more phisical input than other forms of flying, To obtain a recognised pilots licence not only must a potential pilot learn how to fly a hang glider safely and competently they must learn air law.
Description
Most hang gliders are launched into the air from hill or mountainsides, once airborne the pilot places his feet in a stirrup which allows his body to lie flat in line with the air flow. Just as in cockpit gliding, Hang glider pilots fly from thermal to thermal to stay aloft. Most hang gliders are made from lightweight aluminum frames with dacron sails, the sails are made ridged by battens(flexi wings). Hang gliders are controlled by the movement by the movement of the pilots weight and body.
Dedication
Although airfields are not often used by hang glider pilots, airfield rules and regulations are used and followed, by all hang glider pilots. Safety in the air and on the ground is paramount as in all flying activities.
Potential
Although there are many competitions held throughout the world, for competent pilots. With competitions for speed , maneuverability and endurance. For many people it is purely an exciting and affordable way of enjoying flight.
Closely
Related Activities
Power assisted hang gliding (micro light flying), Gliding, and all flying activities.
Cost
A new hang glider will cost between ?2,500 and ?5,000 however second hand ones are much cheaper. A full training course will cost about ?900 but cheaper limited taster courses are available.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
|
Legs
|
Sight
|
Hearing
|
Speech |
Learning |
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