Top Gun Flight School

At iParaglide Top Gun Flight School, we take pride in having taught over 1900 paragliding students in our 26 years of operation.

We are the the longest running school based in Metro Vancouver. Due to our central location, we are the only school that flies all of the relevant kiting parks, training hills and mountains within a 3 hour radius of Vancouver.  This empowers pilots to get to know the key training and flying spots early, optimizes and accelerates learning, and allows them to grow into great future pilots.  

We have the reputation of being an industry leader with an emphasis on engineered safety systems, quality instruction, the finest equipment and a positive learning environment for fun and empowering flying.

We offer the highest level of accreditation, with Senior HPAC and Advanced USHPA paragliding instructors, who coach from first flight to expert paraglider pilots and teach and qualify new paragliding instructors.

Top Gun References

We recently graduated a CF-18 Hornet Pilot from our Top Gun iP2 Novice Paragliding Pilot program.  Read about his impressions of iParaglide.

Social Links

iParaglide Location

Located at 962 - 51st Street Tsawwassen, near Vancouver, BC, Canada, for all your paragliding needs. We are ideally situated just minutes away from the finest training hill at Diefenbaker Park.

iParaglide Flying Sites

We are central to paragliding sites in the Vancouver, Chilliwack, Pemberton, Whistler, Bellingham and Seattle area so students enjoy maximum variety and we can work with weather to optimize selection of the best location each day.

Right Stuff Equipment

We regularly test fly the latest paragliding gear and select only the very finest for our iParaglide Right Stuff Paragliding Equipment Store. This ensures our paraglider pilots enjoy a state of the art performance and safety advantage to accelerate their learning curve.

Paragliding Webcams/Wind Stations

Vancouver Paragliding Webcams - get a view of cloud base to plan your paragliding cross country flight adventure.

Woodside Mtn Webcam

Woodside Wind Station

Bridal Webcam

Bridal Wind Station

Chilliwack Webcam

Hope Webcam 

Pemberton Webcam

Tsawwassen Webcam

Bellingham Bay Webcam

Tiger Mtn Webcam 

Tuesday
Oct162018

1) Swing Brave 3 Bikini Modular Harness

BRAVE 3 – Keep Riding!

The Brave 3 is a comfortable and lightweight reversible micro harness. It offers optimum mobility for Speedriding with Skis. At the same time it is also perfectly suitable for your Hike & Fly projects, Vol Bivouac Adventures and for light and compact paragliding. This versatility is achieved through easily installed additional modules, like a LTF-certified airbag-set, speed system-set and reserve parachute-set front container with a very light reserve parachute.

The materials used for the Brave 3 are high-quality and robust and carefully chosen to guarantee high durability and light weight. This way Swing could lower the weight of the harness by another 100gr compared to its predecessor. Also the backpack has been optimized and offers sufficient space also for standard paragliders, if packed right. The backpack volume is nicely compressible and the back part has been reworked for optimum carrying comfort, also for long tours. Both in backpack mode and flying mode, the harness is prepared for popular hydration systems.

 

 

 

The backpack offers attachment options for skis & poles and a large pocket for all your additional gear. In flying mode you will find a pocket under your right leg for the Speedriding Speedbag or other gear and an additional big pocket on your back.

There is no doubt: This reversible harness is perfect not only for Speedriding but also for your Hike & Fly projects, Vol Bivouac Adventures and for light & compact paragliding.  

 

 

Harness Features

-Leg straps single suspension
-Floating shoulder straps
-Adjustable back incline
-Outlet for drinking hose
-Emergency whistle on chest strap
-Including light-weight automatic karabiners

 

-Leg connectors for more comfortable flying
-Pocket for speed bag in leg strap
-Big Pocket on the back part
-Ready for speed system-set
-Ready for adaptive SWING Airbag Protector light, LTF certified
-Ready for optional front container with light weight reserve  parachute
-1800 gr light
-155cm – 195cm, one size
-Harness certification according LTF

 

 

Backpack Features

-Sufficient volume for paraglider/speed rider/hybrid
-Great carrying comfort, ventilation-system on the back,  ergonomic shoulder straps, reworked back part and backpack  cut.
-Big pocket for your accessories
-Attachment options for skis & poles
-SWING net on the side for ventilation
-Compression straps on the sides
-Emergency whistle on the chest strap
-Outlet for drinking hose
-Hand loops for comfortable hiking
-Optimized hip-belt for increased comfort, even on long tours

Optional Accessories

Airbag Set

-Very small packing volume
-Fast and easy attachment on the harness
-LTF certified*
-Can remain permanently on the harness 

 

Speed System Set

-Includes high-quality harken block pulleys
-Connector set for easy installation
-Free-Spee speed system (to order additionally)
-Can remain permanently on the harness  

Reserve Parachute Set

-Easy and fast installation
-Ideal for SWING Escape M
-Rescue weight only 1050gr incl. inner container
-Can remain permanently on the harness
-Super light front container 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday
Oct162018

3) Swing Connect Race: Cross Country & Competition Paragliding Pod Harness

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Connect Race Harness

The Swing brand has been synonymous with expertise in paraglider manufacture for more than 20 years. Swing has been making harnesses in collaboration with Woody Valley for over ten years. Swing paragliding harnesses are designed exactly in accordance with Swing requirements and specifications and are produced using Woody Valley's know-how. Therefore, with only 3 harnesses in the Swing line-up, they have been able to gain a significant market share in this segment. The best example was the Connect Reverse, which is regarded as a milestone in convertible harnesses. Swing has expanded its range and, with the Connect Race, has released a state-of-the-art pod paragliding harness.

The Connect Race is an innovative, aerodynamic and very practical XC and competition harness, which will impress you with the special level of comfort it offers. It was developed in close collaboration with cross-country expert Daniel Tyrkas. As repeat German cross-country paragliding champion, he knows exactly what is important. Naturally the Connect Race has LTF certification, making it the ideal harness for long cross-country flights and competitions. Take a look at the following features.

Aerodynamics and features

  • aerodynamic back lining, which attaches directly to second front reserve with integrated cockpit the pilot's back / shoulders
  • integrated removable cockpit with neoprene instrument cover
  • cockpit with spoiler for improved aerodynamics
  • space for 5 litres of ballast under the seat board
  • space for 5 litres of ballast in the cockpit
  • provision for a 3 litre hydration system from Deuter
  • fitted ergonomic carbon-seat board gives good contact and feeling for the paraglider
  • two large side pockets and also a smaller pocket for radio or camera
  • soft Velcro on the shoulder straps for small instruments
  • provision for hand warmer system
  • speed bag with outlet for water ballast / urine tube
  • speed bag with smart attachment points

Practicalities and comfort

  • speed bag, adjustable length and angle
  • smooth acceleration system
  • comfortable, ergonomic back section with mesh LTF-certification with 12cm foam-protector insert for improved ventilation
  • adjustable chest-shoulder straps and back support with markings to show recommended standard pilot position
  • easy access, neat closure with magnetic catch

Optional accessories

  • integrated second reserve container within cockpit
  • Deuter hydration system
  • ratchet pulleys to reduce speed bar pressure can be mounted as an option
  • quick-out carabiner can be mounted as an option

Materials and specifications

  • weight: 5.5 kg, including carabiners and speed system (size L)
  • strong yet light materials
  • carbon-seat board
  • sleek speed bag made from insulating softshell material
  • light-weight, practical buckles
  • carabiner-seat distance M 44.5cm, L 47cm, XL 49.5cm

Safety and certification

  • provision for second integrated reserve in cockpit easy-to-operate, neat and safe 
  • Get Up closure system (cockpit cannot be closed without chest and leg strap)
  • LTF-certification with 12cm foam-protector
  • optional side protection

 

 Swing Connect Race Paragliding Pod Harness Manual

 

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Connect Race Harness

Tuesday
Oct162018

2) Swing Mirage RS, Speed Flying Wing

Mirage RS: The Evolution of the Legend!

  • RAST technology
  • new canopy profile
  • shark-nose technology
  • 3D shaping
  • higher cell density for a stable profile with improved performance
  • new glider radius with shorter line length
  • reduced line diameter
  • reworked and even lighter combination of materials
  • completely new graphic design

The MIRAGE RS is the next stage in the development of the MIRAGE, the glider which redefined Speed Flying when it was introduced. The MIRAGE RS is aimed at ambitious speed flying pilots and has a focus on a further increased glide and dive range with increased safety and razor-sharp handling. With its large range, the MIRAGE RS adjusts to even steep contours, makes precise and more dynamic barrel rolls, has high energy reserves also at very low speeds and Swing has optimized the control for longer and accurate swoop landings.

The RAST technology developed by SWING increases safety during flight, on foot launch and stabilises the canopy appreciably in turbulent conditions. The MIRAGE RS stands out with its precise and direct handling, greater speed and a touch more glide, but does not in any way sacrifice the very popular original MIRAGE characteristics!

All of this makes the Mirage RS the ultimate All-Mountain Speedflyer no matter how tough your runs and lines are.

Mirage RS 15

The MIRAGE RS 15 is the Speedflying link to the APUS RS, Swing's paraglider Mini-wing. Size-optimised trimming means Swing has been able to retain the characteristics of the Mirage RS. With a flat wing area of 15.5m², this new size provides the ideal introduction into the world of Speedflying. What’s more, it opens up many new opportunities to experienced Mini-wing pilots as well. The Mirage RS 15 is an all-rounder for almost every occasion, whether it’s for the descent in a hike & fly mission, with fun guaranteed (glider weight 2.8kg), soaring in strong winds or ground handling. The long trim travel offers a huge range with a high resistance to collapses, so the MIRAGE RS 15 can be flown intuitively along the contours of the land. With a surface area of 15.5 m², it offers a high level of safety and glide performance and greater flexibility in the choice of alpine launch sites. Unlike Mini-wings with paraglider profiles, the collapse-resistant Speedflying profile and short lines make the MIRAGE RS a true carver, with dive and performance precisely adjusted for safe and uncomplicated mountain swooping. If you are flying at the coast or ground handling, with the MIRAGE RS 15, the fun takes over from where it ends with a conventional paraglider.

Mirage RS 15 – a fun wing you should never leave home without!

 

Mirage RS 15 Review by Marius Beck Dahle - Swing Speedflying Team.

"I'm stoked to have tested the Swing Mirage RS 15.5 m finally. Since I've been used to flying smaller wings (9.5 and 8.5) it was cool to try out something different. And man, it soars so good in both light and strong winds. Enjoy!"

Mirage RS 17/Twin

With a flat area of 17.5m², the biggest MIRAGE RS provides the ideal introduction into the world of Speedflying for larger pilots as well.

A riser specially optimised for tandem mode with two hang point heights, a reinforced line system, and an extended load test, guarantee much enjoyment and a high level of safety in both solo or tandem mode!


 


Swing Mirage RS Speed Wing Manual

Swing Mirage RS Service Book

Tuesday
Oct162018

8) Swing Twin RS Paraglider, Tandem EN-B

For the first time the RAST system is being used for a tandem paraglider. This has made it possible for the Swing R&D team to utilise the advantages of a larger surface area, and there are marked improvements when it comes to launch behaviour, speed, stability and handling. 

The most important highlights of TWIN RS are:

  • launches in a spectrum of conditions almost by itself
  • efficient climb in weak as well as in strong thermals
  • high top speed with trimmers open
  • smooth-running and precise handling


TWIN RS offers outstanding launch characteristics – and convinces in landing with a good flare

Launch behaviour is one of the absolute highlights of TWIN RS. Thanks to RAST technology, launch is very harmonious and forgiving even if the conditions are unfavourable and/or the passenger is hesitant in the launch run.  Even with maximal load, the launch speed required to lift is low, which also helps in the launch run. What is most noticeable is that RAST makes launch behaviour simpler when there is a mild tailwind or no wind. The canopy no longer orients itself to the slope, as used to be the case, but instead becomes airborne much earlier and almost horizontally.

The same behaviour is the reason why the paraglider does not show any tendency to lift off the pilot unintentionally in strong winds.

It is accurate to describe the flare characteristics of the TWIN RS as outstanding and they make a gentle landing a piece of cake. Both together – easiest launch and landing characteristics – make every flight with TWIN RS a stress-free pleasure.

Characteristics of TWIN RS in flight

Once in the air, you will be impressed by the TWIN RS’s sensational climb rate even when conditions are light. If there ever is any turbulence, RAST ensures extremely high canopy stability and additional safety. This makes the TWIN RS the number one choice for tandem cross-country pilots.

Furthermore, the TWIN RS offers a significant speed range, which makes this glider ideal for use in windy paragliding sites as well (e.g. coastal soaring). The efficient trimmers can be used if necessary to increase the speed of the TWIN RS by well over 10 km/h. Swing test pilots recorded a maximum speed of 50 km/hr using a vane sensor during the extensive testing, even with a take-off weight of 180kg.


The handling is smooth-running and direct. Swing test pilots advise it is better than the handling of TWIN 5.

The “big ears system” helps ensure a fatigue-free descent if the pilot ever wants to descend rapidly.

 Perfectly equipped for being used in a professional tandem business

Swing has given careful thought to the materials used which, along with various technical details, ensures that the TWIN RS is not subject to premature wear and tear even in tough professional use. An innovative detail is the covering of the leading edge with abrasion-resistant nylon patches which protect the sensitive nose.


 Technical highlights of TWIN RS:  

  • Hybrid Lightweight Construction with high quality internal components and selected material mix, to fulfill the demanding requirements of a professional tandem paraglding business and at the same time the desire for a lighter wing.
  • 4-Line-Technology for maximal control in the air.
  • 3D Shaping on the leading edge
  • Innovative Nose Reinforcement using honey comb material to protect the nose
  • Optimised Sail Tension using newest calculation and simulation methods
  • Brake Gathering at the trailing edge for agility and excellent turning attributes
  • Optional Innovative Tandem Spreader bar with Easy-Big-Ears-System

Swing Twin RS Manual

Swing Twin RS Lineplan

Tuesday
Oct162018

7) Swing Agera RS Paraglider, Top EN-C

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Agera RS Paraglider

The new Agera RS sees the introduction of the first EN-C paraglider to feature RAST!

Swing has combined RAST with an uncompromising performance profile. Through the synergies this produces, the Agera RS is redefining the sport class and blurring the boundaries with the performance class.

Flight behaviour:

The Agera RS is a high-performance wing that behaves like a 2-line paraglider.

It can be steered delicately and extremely precisely, meaning it is incredibly stable and can be controlled reliably even in strong turbulence. The communicative flight behaviour of the Agera RS enables the pilot to “read the air” and to recognise and use even small up-currents.

The Agera RS is completely in its element in strong conditions and conveys a comprehensive high performance feel.

Gliding through turbulence with razor-sharp precision at half or full throttle, combined with perfect pitch control through the C-Bridge, means paragliding cross-country aficionados have everything they could want. Reaching the next thermal, the Agera RS enters it purposefully, then playfully spirals up to cloud base. At the same time, it assists the pilot at all times with clear and direct feedback.


The weight ranges are very precise and close, allowing the Agera RS to develop its full potential, and at the same time they cover the range of optimal wing-loading.

Target group:

The Agera RS is a high-end sport class wing, which also compares well with higher-rated paragliders. With its vast potential in terms of performance and speed, it is intended primarily for the following groups of pilots:

  • ambitious paraglider pilots, along with cross-country and competition pilots, who fly actively and are able to detect canopy stability problems, and prevent them at the outset or minimise their repercussions. The pilot must be able to safely master all common descent methods.

  • Pilots who are seriously preparing themselves for a subsequent seamless transition to EN-D or CCC competition or are stepping back from higher class paragliders and want similar performance with greater safety margins.

The Agera RS will help you find the core for intuitive thermalling at your local site, but really comes to its own when you depart well worn paths and break out on ambitious cross country lines. The confidence inspiring stability combined with performance beyond its class, will help you reach for and achieve greater XC flights with a smile, precision and grace.

Technical highlights: 


  • RAST for more stability and a greater range of usable performance

  • Performance Profile for high speeds and excellent properties in thermal flying

  • Nitinol Battens for a razor-sharp leading edge with maximum aerodynamic quality

  • Load Distribution as with 2-line technology. 90% of the load is on the A- and B-lines. The C-lines have a supporting function and operate only when using the brakes or with canopy stability problems. This has made it possible to transfer the 2-line feeling into the sport class

  • C-Bridge for efficient pitch control and steering through the rear risers

  • Exclusive High-tech Fabric, which is very light and hard-wearing

  • Competition Lines for minimised air resistance

  • High Trim Speed

  • Lightweight Construction meticulously optimised to remain durable

Top of Class Glide and Speed with a Flat Polar Curve

While many talk about paraglider performance, precious few have published a reliable polar curve. Swing has flown the polar curve of the Agera RS across multiple flights with a TAS sensor and two parallel instruments, per attached polar curve average. 

 

Swing Agera RS Paraglider Manual

Swing Agera RS Lineplan

Swing Agera RS Review by Thermik Magazine

 

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Agera RS Paraglider