We have renewed all our safety equipment: new helmets, harnesses and approved reserve parachutes. It is a significant investment for the club and, above all, one more guarantee for those who fly with us.
In paragliding, safety depends on three factors: good equipment, a well-trained pilot and suitable conditions. Today we explain what each piece of equipment is for and how we look after it.
The helmet and the harness
The helmet protects the head at take-off and landing, which are the moments when a fall is most likely. It must be approved for air sports and fit well.
The harness is the seat in which you are attached to the paraglider. A suitable harness spreads the weight, is comfortable throughout the flight and usually includes back protection and a compartment for the reserve parachute. We check the condition of the straps, buckles and seams before using it.
The reserve parachute
The reserve parachute is the last resort if a serious problem occurs with the wing. It is carried in the harness and deployed with a specific handle; the pilot knows the procedure and practises it.
For it to work when needed, it must be properly packed and checked at the intervals set by the manufacturer. That is why renewing the club's parachutes is one of the most important parts of this update.
Checks and good practice
The equipment is inspected before each day: lines, wing fabric, carabiners and fasteners are checked, and any part that shows wear is withdrawn. The equipment is also stored and transported carefully to extend its life.
But no equipment replaces judgement: the club's pilots assess the wind, the weather and the condition of each passenger or student before deciding whether to fly.
How to check the safety of a flight
Before booking a paragliding flight it is worth asking whether the pilot is certified, whether the equipment is approved and checked, and who decides whether to fly when the weather is unclear. A serious company answers these questions without a problem and does not pressure you to fly in poor conditions.
In our case, the decision is always made by the pilot and always with your safety in mind.
Why we only fly in good conditions
The best safety measure is not to fly when it is not the right time. Wind that is too strong, gusts, rain or reduced visibility are reason enough to postpone a flight, even if you have a booking and even if the equipment is new.
Cancelling a flight is not a failure: it is a responsible decision that protects everyone, and we always try to reschedule it for the next available day.
Conclusion: New, approved equipment so you can fly with more peace of mind. If you have questions about the safety of a flight, ask us: we will be happy to explain how we work before you book.
