FAQs
In the US, you do not need a license to fly a paramotor, but you do need to follow the rules of the FAA surrounding ultralight aircraft. These can be found in FAR part 103. We will go into this in depth during training.
Do I need a license to fly a paramotor?
How much does it cost?
The cost to get into paramotoring can vary depending on gear and training. For new gear, you can expect to pay between $8,000-$14,000 on average. Used gear is an option, but choose wisely to ensure its reliability.
How far can you go?
There are many variables to consider when thinking about distance. Some of these are the motor, weather conditions, wing speed, and fuel tank size. It’s not uncommon to travel distances of 200 miles on a full tank of fuel.
What size wing do I need?
At first, your wing size is dependent on your weight. Each wing is designed for a specific weight range. This weight includes it’s total load, being you, the motor, and everything it’s carrying. Once you find an appropriate wing, check the manufacture’s recommended weight range on that wing. I like to be at around 70-80% of that range.
How safe is paramotoring?
Paramotoring is as safe or dangerous as the pilot makes it. These days, the wings are made so well, and so safe, that many people believe it’s safer than most types of aviation. If fact, your wing is designed to collapse and automatically re-inflate itself. As with any sport, poor training and decision making can lead to an increase in accidents.
What if my motor dies?
Fortunately, your motor is only intended to give you altitude. When you climb to cruising altitude, and decide to come back down, the only way to do so is to let off the throttle and float down. If your motor dies, you just glide back down to the ground as if you were intending to land.
If I don’t need a license, can I train myself?
Although you can legally self-train, your new hobby will likely be short lived without professional training. This can be a very dangerous and expensive undertaking. Self-taught pilots miss a lot of important theory, experience, and end up making avoidable costly repairs.
How high can you go?
There is a legal limit and a physical limit. In accordance to FAA Part 103, we as paramotor pilots can go up to but not higher than 18,000 feet MSL. Physically, you will start breathing less oxygen around 10,000 ft. Higher than this can increase the chance of a blackout and is not recommended. Most pilots fly at a cruising altitude between 400 and 2000 feet.
I have a fear of heights. Now what?
Having a fear of heights is completely normal. In fact, most people do! At least they think they do. In most cases, it’s not the heights you’re afraid of. You’re actually just afraid of falling. When I started, this was one of my biggest hesitations. The moment I realized how safe my gear was and that I was in complete control is when the fear went away.
Where can I fly?
You can fly pretty much anywhere, but there are some things you should know. There are some FAA regulations on this, but you can fly anywhere you have permission to do so. During training, you will get an in depth understanding of the different airspaces and why they exist.
