Questions

Frequent

Frequently Asked Questions

Two-seater
  • Am I ready to take a tandem flight?

    No obvious prerequisites are required to enjoy a tandem paragliding flight, except for health conditions that may limit the activity. This exciting aerial sport is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of prior experience. With guidance from a qualified instructor, you'll be ready to take flight and enjoy a unique adventure. The experience involves a short run-up for takeoff and landing, making it suitable for people of all ages, from young children to seniors. We also offer a tandem paragliding aircraft with a motor, specially designed to give those with reduced mobility the opportunity to fly. The Benasque Valley provides a stunning natural setting, ideal for this unforgettable aerial experience. Take to the skies!

  • Time has flown by!

    It's the phenomenon of time perception. During a two-seater flight, adrenaline and excitement make time seem to pass more quickly for the passengers, making the flight appear shorter than it actually was. This perception of time passing coincides with other moments when you experience intense and enjoyable situations.

  • I have vertigo, can I fly?

    As a general rule, you don't experience vertigo, even if you do. This is because paragliding lacks the spatial references necessary to trigger that sensation. We have friends who struggle to climb a ladder, but they have no problem flying.

  • Under what conditions does paragliding fly?

    Castejón de Sos is a prime location for paragliding. Sheltered by the Pyrenees Mountains, its valley breezes ensure a high number of flying days per year. Like any aircraft, paragliding has its limits. It's best to avoid flying in strong winds (over 30 km/h), near storms, or in the rain, as these conditions are unpleasant. Cold or cloudy weather is fine, although a sunny and warm day is certainly more favorable. In winter, technical clothing provides protection from the wind and cold.

  • Do you have to jump off a cliff to take off?

    We don't jump off any cliffs! We take off gradually and without trauma; the takeoffs are on grass with a gentle slope. The transition from running to flying is imperceptible; in fact, the passengers continue running unconsciously in the air.

  • Is paragliding very scary?

    It's common for passengers to experience nervousness, especially in the moments before and after takeoff. However, this tension quickly dissipates, as a sense of calm sets in once we're airborne. Sitting next to the instructor allows us to talk to them and listen to their explanations about the flight area and the surrounding mountains.

  • Does it fall from a great height when landing?

    Unlike takeoff, during landing we go from flying to running, but it's a smooth transition because we use the entire surface of the paraglider to slow down since we're moving horizontally, so there's no vertical drop. The landing speed is usually similar to the takeoff speed. The difference is that for takeoff we can choose the desired breeze, while for landing we land with whatever breeze we encounter. That is, if there's a headwind upon landing, the running speed decreases, and if, on the contrary, the breeze dies down, we have to match the paraglider's speed upon touching the ground, so we have to run a little faster.

  • Is the flying position very uncomfortable?

    Modern flying chairs are so comfortable that some pilots use them in their gardens to relax, like a hammock, when they're not flying. You can fly for many hours without feeling uncomfortable.

  • Can I bring my camera or video camera?

    No. The instructor will have a secured camera to take photos and videos, which he will show you upon landing. You can purchase the footage if you wish, with no obligation. We fly at altitudes exceeding 1000 meters, and any improperly secured object could cause a serious accident.

  • Can I get motion sickness while flying?

    It's not common, but if you're prone to motion sickness, whether in a car or on a boat, we recommend taking Dramamine an hour before your flight. The vast majority of people don't get motion sickness, but some are more sensitive than others. It's advisable not to drink or eat excessively before flying, and to rest if you feel dizzy from the car journey. We have an emergency bag available during the flight.

  • Are there many paragliding accidents?

    Paragliding, as a flying device, is remarkably simple, and this simplicity is linked to safety. Accidents, which do occur, are all due to human error: underestimating flying conditions, flying in conditions unsuitable for the pilot's skill level, overconfidence, and flying with paragliders inappropriate for our skill level. We fly tandem paragliders for the passenger's enjoyment, but we are the first to cancel a flight if it doesn't meet minimum safety standards due to weather conditions.

  • Is the passenger in the back?

    The passenger goes in front and the pilot goes behind, for several reasons, but above all for the passenger it is more comfortable and has a greater field of vision and can move more freely, but the most important reason is that for the pilot he has greater control of the paraglider by piloting behind.

  • You actually get to work doing what you love!

    It's clear that you have to love working with the two-seater to do it, but some of the magic fades for us when we have responsibilities, obligations, and schedules. It's not the same feeling as at the beginning, but we are still comforted by the expressions of joy and pleasure from our passengers.

  • Are we covered by insurance?

    Of course. In the Aragon region, to work with mountain sports activities, the Government of Aragon requires you to be on the list of "Active Tourism" companies, and to do so you need to meet certain requirements, one of which is having adequate insurance for adventure activities.

  • Won't we trip while running during takeoff?

    Throughout the entire flight, including takeoff, we're connected by "separators" or tethers. These are long enough to allow us to run simultaneously without bumping into each other. But don't forget to tie your shoes securely.

  • Is taking off on skis easy?

    Yes, for both the pilot and the passenger, because there's no need to rush, just let yourself glide down the steepest slope. The required skiing level is minimal, though necessary, since if you can't fly, you'll need to ski down. Taking off on skis is actually easier than on foot, as matching your speed for takeoff or landing requires minimal effort.

  • Do we take off on snow and land on grass?

    It's common on flights we take from the ski resort and land in the valley, where we'll be covering altitudes of over 1000m, to find no snow at the landing. But that's not a problem; you can land very well and comfortably on grass, letting the speed dissipate through friction with the surface.

  • What are the most delicate moments on a two-seater flight?

    Contrary to popular belief, the most dangerous moments are not when we're highest, but quite the opposite. The most delicate moments are takeoff, landing, and flying very close to the ground. During takeoff and landing, paragliders are often flown at low speeds, making them slow to react and risking a stall if, due to any unforeseen event, we reduce our speed below the minimum. Flying very close to the ground can be very exciting, but a small oversight can cause us to encounter trees, rocks, or simply the ground in our path.

Speedriding
  • Am I ready to take a Speedriding course?

    You don't need prior experience in paragliding or any similar aerial sport, but we do require that you have an intermediate level of skiing, that is, that you can ski comfortably parallel on red slopes without looking or paying attention to your skis.

  • What happens if you're going very fast while speedriding and you want to brake?

    The skis take precedence over the glider; the rider, with a decisive ski slide, dissipates the accumulated energy, and if the brakes on the glider are applied simultaneously, even better. Alternatively, the rider can trace a diagonal line and lose speed more gradually.

  • I am a world champion in paragliding/skydiving, can I do speedriding?

    If you don't know how to ski, NO. A confirmed level of experience on red runs will help your progress. But your knowledge will make your improvement safer and faster.

  • I have a paraglider, can I do speedriding?

    No, Speedriding equipment is specifically designed for this activity. The reduced takeoff speed and greater glide ratio compared to mini-suns make it very easy to fly, with the consequent risk of overflying facilities and runways.

  • I snowboard, can I do speedriding with a board?

    No. Skis are necessary for this activity; snowboarding equipment is unsuitable due to the gliding position. Keep in mind that as soon as you have a lot of lift or jump, it will be impossible to keep the board pointing in line with the steepest slope, as the attachments to the mini-sail force you into a position incompatible with proper board positioning. All riders use skis. However, once you know how to speedrid with skis, you can practice with your snowboard on days with strong winds, when you can generate traction and don't need to lose altitude. In these situations, you use speedriding like kitesurfing.

  • I have a Speedflying sail, can I use it for Speedriding?

    No. Its design is intended for gliding, and although it has a lower glide ratio than a paraglider and can be adjusted to its minimum, we would only become airborne on slopes of 14º. Also, due to its larger surface area, takeoff speeds are lower than with Speedriding equipment.

  • Is Speedriding a good introduction to Speedflying?

    No. Although the two disciplines complement each other, they are different. You'll find the piloting in flight similar, but takeoffs and landings are very different on skis versus on foot, and we'll need to undergo proper adaptation with a course to switch disciplines.

  • What level of skiing do I need?

    The skiing level corresponds to a "C" (which corresponds to basic parallel skiing). We need to be able to ski down red runs without hesitation, begin guided turns, and control speed on slopes.

  • And after the course?

    You can practice in the designated areas, provided you have completed the corresponding level course. If you come independently, you must contact us before starting the activity. If you are an advanced rider and wish to access other areas, please contact us. You can consult the "Info" menu for the protocol for independent speedriding at the Cerler ski resort, although we would be happy to explain it to you over the phone.

  • When can I become self-employed?

    Depending on the slope and terrain characteristics, different levels of independence are achieved. Full independence is reached after completing both courses: initiation and progression. This typically takes two seasons. However, the school keeps a record of each student's progress and will issue a certificate indicating their level so they can practice elsewhere. The Freeride level is for advanced riders.

  • Is it possible to practice speedriding in places other than within the ski area of a resort?

    Yes, in fact, its ultimate goal is to do it off-piste, in the mountains. This requires a high level of skill, both in skiing technique and in handling the mini-glider and in flying. Most of the speedriding areas in European resorts are off-piste.

  • Is there any walking involved?

    No, access to the designated areas is always done on skis.

  • Will my usual boots and skis work?

    Yes, you don't need to change anything. However, when skiing off-piste, having the right equipment makes things easier. For example, all-mountain skis would be more than enough. The Pyrenees are characterized by hard snow, and generally, you could ski slalom skis, but be careful when the snow becomes crusty or deep; freeride skis are best.

  • Which is faster for descending: speedriding or skiing?

    On gentle slopes, the skier is always faster. But on steep slopes, a regular skier generally has to regulate their speed and brake, while a speedrider can accelerate at full speed because they have an extra point of support.

  • I practice skydiving and paragliding; will this help me with speedriding?

    Understanding the mechanics of flight greatly benefits the final stages of the beginner's course, where short glides are performed, and is crucial for the progression course, as this involves flights with greater vertical drops. As we've mentioned before, without a solid foundation in skiing technique, it's all for naught.

  • Which is more physically demanding, speedriding or skiing?

    Skiing is clearly more physical; keep in mind that the mini-sail always generates a significant amount of lift, and turns rely not only on the skis but also on the aerodynamic controls. However, the smaller the mini-sail, the more physical effort it requires from us.

  • Is it possible to make descents without flying?

    If that's indeed the philosophy of Speedriding, it's skiing supported by a mini-sail. We can also adjust the glide angle with the trimmers.

  • Is it possible to go down very steep slopes (more than 45º) without flying?

    Yes, but skiing technique is crucial, and it's important to control not reaching takeoff speed.

Paragliding
  • Am I ready to take a paragliding course?

    No prior experience is necessary, we'll start from scratch, we'll provide the materials, you bring the enthusiasm!

  • Time has flown by!

    It's the phenomenon of time perception. During a two-seater flight, adrenaline and excitement make time seem to pass more quickly for the passengers, making the flight appear shorter than it actually was. This perception of time passing coincides with other moments when you experience intense and enjoyable situations.

  • I'm feeling vertigo! Can I fly?

    As a general rule, you don't experience vertigo, even if you do. This is because paragliding lacks the spatial references necessary to trigger that sensation. We have friends who struggle to climb a ladder, but they have no problem flying.

  • Under what conditions does paragliding fly?

    Castejón de Sos is a prime location for paragliding. Sheltered by the Pyrenees Mountains, its valley breezes ensure a high number of flying days per year. Like any aircraft, paragliding has its limits. It's best to avoid flying in strong winds (over 30 km/h), near storms, or in the rain, as these conditions are unpleasant. Cold or cloudy weather is fine, although a sunny and warm day is certainly more favorable. In winter, technical clothing provides protection from the wind and cold.

  • Do you have to jump off a cliff to take off?

    We don't jump off any cliffs! We take off gradually and without trauma; the takeoffs are on grass with a gentle slope. The transition from running to flying is imperceptible; in fact, the passengers continue running unconsciously in the air.

  • Am I flying solo from the start?

    The future pilot is directed by radio from the beginning; there is a monitor at takeoff and another at landing, and at all times he is controlled and directed according to the flights he carries out.

  • Is it very scary on the first flight?

    We've been preparing for this moment with both theoretical and practical classes. We're going to put everything we've learned into practice, and it's more of a liberation, because the steep training and the awkward climb with the paraglider on our shoulders are over. Everything happens in a controlled environment with instructors present at takeoff and landing.

  • Does the landing involve a very high drop?

    Just like during takeoff, the landing is smooth, as we use the entire surface of the paraglider to slow down. It is true that if there is no wind at landing, there is always a little residual speed, but it does not usually exceed 5 km/h.

  • Is the flying position very uncomfortable?

    The modern flying chairs we use are so comfortable that I know some pilots who keep theirs in their gardens to relax in, like a hammock, when they're not flying. You can fly for many hours without feeling uncomfortable.

  • Can I fly anywhere?

    Absolutely not! Flying sites must meet minimum requirements regarding takeoff orientation, prevailing wind, wind direction and intensity, suitable terrain for the takeoff run, the ability to fully extend the paraglider without tangling, a landing area within the paraglider's glide range, and the location not being in an area restricted for the activity. Furthermore, if you have recently completed a course, it is advisable to fly in recognized sites and never alone.

  • Can I get motion sickness while flying?

    It's not common, it's the same as in a car: if we're driving we don't get motion sickness, but if we're being driven we're much more likely to. The vast majority of people don't get motion sickness, but some are more sensitive than others. It's advisable not to drink or eat too much before flying, and to rest if you feel motion sickness from the car journey.

  • Are we covered by insurance?

    Yes, there are several insurance options. The minimum coverage is for the duration of the course, and there are also quarterly, semi-annual, and annual options. All insurance policies end on December 31st, regardless of the purchase date.

  • Are there many paragliding accidents?

    Paragliding, as a flying device, is very simple, and simplicity goes hand in hand with safety. Accidents, which do occur, are all due to human error: underestimating flying conditions, flying in conditions unsuitable for the pilot's skill level, overconfidence, and flying with paragliders unsuitable for our skill level. Learning at an official school reduces the risk (in Spain, no course is mandatory for paragliding!). We fly tandem paragliders for the passenger's enjoyment, but we are the first to cancel the flight if it doesn't meet minimum safety standards (always depending on weather conditions).

  • I've eaten a bit more this season, will paragliding be able to handle me?

    Paragliders are certified by an international organization, and the first thing they undergo is a structural test. If the paraglider manufacturer states the maximum load is 105 kg, the structural test subjects it to almost 10 times that maximum weight. If it doesn't break, it then undergoes other tests related to flight quality (some manufacturers push the structural test to its limits, and their paragliders break at around 1500 kg of force... and even more). In any case, you have to choose a paraglider for the weight you'll be carrying, although they have a weight range of about 20 kg.

  • Can the Initiation and Progression courses be taken consecutively?

    Of course, we'll have the freshest concepts and make better use of our time.

  • What are the most delicate moments on a two-seater flight?

    Contrary to popular belief, the most dangerous moments are not when we're highest, but quite the opposite. The most delicate moments are takeoff, landing, and flying very close to the ground. During takeoff and landing, paragliders are often flown at low speeds, making them slow to react and risking a stall if, due to any unforeseen event, we reduce our speed below the minimum. Flying very close to the ground can be very exciting, but a small oversight can cause us to encounter trees, rocks, or simply the ground in our path.

Speedfly
  • Am I ready for a Speedflying course?

    If you have previously completed a Speedriding or Paragliding course, you're ready!

  • Does a speedfly fly faster than a paraglider?

    The speed difference between a paraglider and a speedflying mini-glider can range from 7 km/h to 30 km/h, and even more with maneuvers. A speedflying mini-glider is faster and more agile than a paraglider.

  • What is the difference between Speedriding and Speedfly?

    In general, speedriding gliders have a higher sink rate since it's not a concern when you're on skis, while speedfly gliders require a bit more finesse, as you'll need to take off and land on foot. The philosophy of speedriding is to ski, while the philosophy of speedflying is generally to fly following the contours of the terrain.

  • Is the Speedfly dangerous?

    Compared to paragliding, we go at higher speeds, which means the risk is lower. Therefore, we require students to have completed a previous paragliding or speedriding course, or to have experience in another aerial sport such as skydiving. If you meet this requirement, we'll teach you everything else.

  • Is the Speedfly only for flying close to the terrain?

    No. Because the gliders are small and lightweight, they're ideal for mountain soaring. Being faster, they're also a useful complement for ridge soaring (speedsoaring) on days when you can't take your paraglider out, as speed gliders can handle higher wind speeds. Finally, wing loading is an important factor, as it protects the wings from potential turbulence.

  • I just finished the introductory paragliding course, can I try the Speedfly?

    The school's methodology and our focus on all four flight disciplines ensure you won't miss any flights during your contracted week. If your skill level doesn't allow you to safely continue with a Speedfly course, don't worry, we'll adapt your skills to classic paragliders.

  • How difficult is it to take off and land with a speedfly?

    As we explained earlier, the risk margin is lower than with a classic paraglider. Therefore, we need to practice takeoff and landing techniques before attempting an actual flight. We also need to review the pre-flight check protocols.

  • Can I use my paragliding harness for speedflying?

    No. It can also be very dangerous. Small gliders, if they fly in strong turbulence, can also fold up. If you add a paragliding harness with a kickboard, you might lean towards the folded side and enter autorotation with the mini-glider. Generally, Speedfly harnesses don't include kickboards so that the transfer of movement is smoother.

  • Are we covered by insurance?

    Of course. In the Aragon region, to work with mountain sports activities, the Government of Aragon requires you to be on the list of "Active Tourism" companies, and to do so you need to meet certain requirements, one of which is having adequate insurance for adventure activities.

  • Do we take off on snow and land on grass?

    It's common on flights we take from the ski resort and land in the valley, where we'll be covering altitudes of over 1000m, to find no snow at the landing. But that's not a problem; you can land very well and comfortably on grass, letting the speed dissipate through friction with the surface.

  • What are the most delicate moments on a two-seater flight?

    Contrary to popular belief, the most dangerous moments are not when we're highest, but quite the opposite. The most delicate moments are takeoff, landing, and flying very close to the ground. During takeoff and landing, paragliders are often flown at low speeds, making them slow to react and risking a stall if, due to any unforeseen event, we reduce our speed below the minimum. Flying very close to the ground can be very exciting, but a small oversight can cause us to encounter trees, rocks, or simply the ground in our path.

Talk to us today!