Frequently Asked Questions

A tandem paraglider is a type of paraglider designed to carry two people at once: a pilot and a passenger. It's like an aerial adventure for two, where you can feel the adrenaline rush while enjoying spectacular views. The pilot controls everything, so you just enjoy the flight. It's perfect for those who want to try this experience without having to learn to fly solo. Imagine floating through the skies, feeling the wind on your face and the thrill of flight!

When we talk about tandem paragliding, there are several types you can try. Tandem walk-through paragliding is the classic flight, ideal for enjoying the view while floating in the air. Takeoff and landing are done with a short run by the instructor and passenger. To reach the launch site, we'll ascend for 40 minutes along an unpaved runway to an altitude of over 2,000 meters. Speedtandems are available for snow lovers; there are ski-adapted versions where you can glide and take off from a snowy slope. For takeoff, we'll take the chairlift from the Cerler ski resort, for which the passenger will need their own ski pass. Paratrikes are three-wheeled motorized vehicles that allow you to take off from almost anywhere or on suitable terrain without any physical limitations. They are suitable for people with reduced mobility. Perfect if you're looking for adventure without depending on the wind! So, as you can see, there are options for all tastes. Let's fly!

First, it's important to choose a reputable paragliding company; safety is key! Before takeoff, listen carefully to the pilot's instructions. You'll need to wear a harness and follow their directions to ensure everything is properly adjusted. Dress comfortably and, if possible, bring a light jacket, as it can get a bit chilly in the air. Finally, get ready to enjoy the view and the feeling of freedom; it will be unforgettable!

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 offers a privileged natural environment, ideal for experiencing this unforgettable aerial adventure. Take to the skies!

1. **Clothing**: Opt for lightweight but warm clothing. A long-sleeved shirt and a fleece are great. Wear comfortable pants, such as joggers or hiking pants. In winter, it's best to wear three insulating layers and a windbreaker. 2. **Sunglasses**: Sunglasses are essential. Look for a pair that fits well so they don't fall off during the flight. 3. **Gloves**: Lightweight gloves will help keep your hands warm without restricting movement. 4. **Shoes**: Bring hiking boots or sneakers with good traction. Avoid sandals! 5. **Jacket**: A windproof or waterproof jacket is ideal, as the weather can change. Get ready for an amazing experience in the air! 🌤️✈️

The Speedtandem is a type of paraglider specially designed for flying with two people on skis, making it perfect for those looking to share the experience of free flight in winter. Unlike conventional paragliders, the Speedtandem has a more robust design and a smaller surface area to ensure stability and allow you to ski while descending. This type of paraglider allows an experienced pilot to carry a passenger, who must have an intermediate skiing level (red lines). It's ideal for enjoying breathtaking views and feeling the adrenaline rush of the speed you can reach with this small paraglider flying close to the terrain. So if you ever decide to fly in winter, the Speedtandem will make you feel like you're floating on your skis!

Tandem paratrike flights are an exciting experience designed to let you enjoy paragliding without any prior experience. This type of flight takes place in a lightweight, three-wheeled vehicle that combines a paraglider and a motor, allowing the pilot and passenger to take off and land without having to run. The idea is that the experienced pilot handles the trike while you relax and enjoy the scenery from above, comfortably seated. It's ideal for not being dependent on the wind and being able to take off from any designated location or field. Hopping on a paratrike might be just what you need! Are you ready to take to the skies?

Of course! Flying in a paratrike is an incredible experience, and although it might seem complicated, people with reduced mobility can enjoy this adventure. In a paratrike, we take off and land on wheels, propelled by an engine. The great thing is that they are designed to be accessible. Many companies offer services specifically adapted for people with reduced mobility. This includes seats and safety equipment that make flying easier. Before flying, it's advisable to speak with the instructors to ensure all your needs are met. They will guide you through the entire process and make sure you feel comfortable and safe. So, if you're eager to experience the sensation of flying, don't hesitate to try it! The experience of floating above the landscape is simply unforgettable. 🌤️✈️

The maximum passenger weight depends on the size of the paraglider. A tandem paraglider is certified for the following weight ranges, which may vary depending on the model or brand: Size 37, weight range 90-190 kg; Size 40, weight range 90-220 kg; Size 42, weight range 120-240 kg. This range represents the sum of the total weights in flight. For example: Tandem paraglider equipment = 20 kg; Instructor = 80 kg; Passenger = 80 kg. On average, the passenger's weight would reach up to 100 kg, but with a larger paraglider and a lighter instructor, a passenger of 120 kg could fly.

It depends on the flight booked. The Standard flight lasts approximately 20 minutes, which is the time it takes to descend from takeoff to landing. The Premium flight lasts approximately 40 minutes. On this flight, we look for rising thermals to get better views of the Pyrenees. Which would you choose?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

It's common on flights we take from the ski resort and land in the valley, where we'll be navigating vertical drops 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 towards the line of maximum 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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 with slalom skis, but be careful when the snow becomes crusty or deep; freeride skis are best.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 all during landing, there is always a little residual speed, but it does not usually exceed 5 km/h.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

It's common on flights we take from the ski resort and land in the valley, where we'll be navigating vertical drops 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.

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.