Paragliding Discovery Theory
Saturday, April 19, 2014 at 8:19 Dion Vuk 
We had a great group of new student pilots at our recent Discovery Theory class. This course is designed to be the foundation of key concepts on which to build the paragliding pilots entire library of theory for flying.
As instructors, one of the most important things we can do is to teach core concepts in a classroom environment as a priori to other activity. In this manner, new pilots understand why paragliders work as they do and thereby are empowered to accelerate their progression when it comes time for practical application at the training hill and during high mountain flights.
The evening began with the multimedia presentation of The Sky is Your Playground, originally shown at the 2013 Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival. Playground is a guided tour of paragliding, from taking your first steps off the ground to flying ever greater adventures in the sky. With dramatic images from around the world and breathtaking videos to inspire all that seek to soar with hawks and eagles.
We had a break for the always delicious Romano's Pizza and the new pilots had the opportunity to mix and mingle.
Then we dove into the heart of paragliding with the key concepts:
- Why Paragliders Fly - Basic Aerodynamics
- Paragliding Control Positions and Flight Attitudes
- Choosing Safe Wind Limits for Launch, Flight and Landing
- 20 Point Paragliding Pre-Flight Checklist
- Launch Run Sequencing and Commands
- Stabilizing Pitch, Roll and Yaw
- Transitioning to Flight and Sitting after Takeoff
- How to Turn Safely at Various Bank Angles
- Reserve Deployment
- Airspeed, Windspeed and Groundspeed
- Optimum Flight Plans for Safety
- Crabbing
- 10 Key Rules for Great Landings
- Standard Aircraft and Figure 8 Approach for Landing
- Final and Flaring
Lots of "aha" moment smiles emerged throughout the evening and we really enjoyed teaching this new group.
By the end of the evening the new pilots were all fully prepared for their upcoming training hill and mountain flights.
We thank all for their enthusiastic participation and look forward to their continuing education with upcoming training hill flights, mountain flights and the upcoming iP1 Theory night.
Wishing a great new season and many fun and safe flights to all!
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