Before You Fly: A Tourist’s Guide to Safe Paragliding
The official signboard at the landing site.
The “Instruction for Tourists” board at the paragliding landing site is worth reading. It protects both your safety and your wallet. Here is what each point means and what you should do.
Quick Pre-Flight Checklist in Bir Billing
- Ask to see the pilot’s license.
- Confirm the price of Paragliding: never more than ₹3000 per person.
- Wear sports shoes and comfortable clothes.
- Check your helmet, harness and buckles.
- Look at the sky and ask about the weather.
- Be honest about your age, weight and health.
- GoPro video is optional: say no, or pay no more than ₹500.
- Know where the marshal is, and report any problem or doubt about a pilot.
The Do’s
1. Check your pilot’s license. Your pilot controls the whole flight. Politely ask to see their license. If they hesitate, ask for another pilot.
2. Check your seat belts. Make sure every buckle is closed and snug, and ask the pilot to check them again with you.
3. Wear sports shoes. Take-off and landing happen on uneven ground. Avoid sandals and flip-flops, and carry a light jacket.
4. Minimum age is 12 years. Equipment is made for a certain body size. Younger children should not fly.
5. Minimum weight is 35 kg. Tell the operator your real weight so the flight can be planned safely.
The Don’ts
1. Do not pay more than ₹3000 per person for the flight. Ask for the price first and take a receipt. Rates can change, so confirm at the official counter if the price looks different.
2. Do not pay more than ₹500 per person for the GoPro video. It is optional. Agree on the price before you fly, not after you land.
3. Do not fly if the weather looks bad. Wind, rain and clouds are the biggest risks. Postpone the flight, even if you have already paid.
4. Do not fly with a pilot who disrespects you. Ask for a different pilot and complain to the marshal.
5. Do not fly if you are drunk or sick. Alcohol and illness make dizziness and nausea worse in the air.
6. Do not fly with a back injury or after back surgery. Landing can put sudden pressure on your spine. Ask your doctor first.
7. Do not fly without proper equipment. You need a good helmet and a secure harness. If anything looks old or damaged, refuse to fly.
8. Do not ask for stunts or aerobatics. Ask for a smooth, scenic flight. If you feel uneasy, tell the pilot to fly gently.
9. Do not pay extra for stunts or anything else. Pay only the official ticket price. If someone asks for more money, say no and tell the marshal.
Final Thoughts
Paragliding should be a joyful experience. Ask questions, check the basics, and feel free to say no. Then enjoy the view.
Note: This is general safety advice based on a signboard. Prices and rules can change, so confirm with the official operator or tourism office.
