Frequently asked questions
Good questions
are part of flying.
Everything you need to choose your next step with confidence—from your first taste of flight to advanced pilot training.
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01 / Starting out
Your first questions
Clear answers for the moment between curiosity and commitment.
No. The tandem, Intro and PG2 pathways are designed to meet complete beginners where they are. You do not need previous flying experience or specialist knowledge before you begin.
That is completely normal. Your training progresses in manageable steps, with clear instruction and no pressure to rush. We want you to understand what is happening and feel ready for each next step.
Choose the instructional tandem if you want to experience flight first, the two-day Intro Course to begin learning for yourself, PG2 to become an independent pilot, or advanced training if you already hold a rating. If you are unsure, talk with us before booking.
Paragliding attracts people across a wide range of ages and fitness levels. Some running and mobility are required, and the demands vary between courses. Tell us about any injury, mobility concern or health consideration and we can give you an honest assessment before you commit.
02 / Weather & timing
The sky sets the schedule
We work with the conditions, because useful learning starts with good decisions.
Yes—we operate seven days a week throughout the season, provided the weather supports safe, worthwhile flying. Conditions, not the calendar, make the final call.
Our main flying season runs through the warmer months, generally from November to April. Every part of the season has advantages, and the best time depends on your course, availability and goals.
Paragliding is weather-dependent. Conditions guide each day, and flight training only proceeds when it supports safe, useful learning. We may adjust the timing, use the day for ground handling or theory, or pause until the right conditions return.
An instructional tandem takes around two hours, the Intro Course runs over two days, and PG2 commonly takes 14–21 days. Weather and individual progress matter, so we recommend allowing flexibility rather than planning around the shortest possible timeline.
03 / Training & safety
Confidence is built
Small groups, clear coaching and decisions you learn to make for yourself.
Paragliding carries risk. Good training is about understanding that risk, recognising changing conditions and building habits that help you make sound decisions before, during and after every flight. We never promise that flying is risk-free.
On an instructional tandem, your instructor flies with you. As you progress through solo training, you launch and fly your own wing with direct radio guidance, structured briefings and clear landing instruction.
We will explain what is supplied and what you need to bring before your course. If you already own equipment, tell us the make, model, size and age so we can confirm whether it is appropriate for your training and current level.
We intentionally keep our courses personal. Group size varies by programme and conditions, but the principle stays the same: enough direct instructor attention for meaningful briefings, observation, feedback and debriefing.
04 / Booking & travel
Plan the practical part
Straight answers about Queenstown, visiting pilots and making a booking.
Yes. We regularly work with visiting pilots. Tell us about your current rating, airtime, recent flying and goals, and we will explain the New Zealand licence, equipment and site requirements that apply to you.
We are based in Queenstown, New Zealand. The exact training and flying site is chosen for the course, the learning objective and the conditions on the day.
Often, yes—but flying sites and daily plans can change with the weather. Ask us about the best place and time for friends or family to watch so they do not make an unnecessary trip.
Terms vary by booking and course. Please read the current Terms and Conditions before paying a deposit, and ask us about anything that is unclear. Weather flexibility is an important part of planning paragliding training.
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