The Science Behind Paragliding
A paraglider is a lightweight, fabric wing designed to create lift as air flows over it. Unlike skydiving parachutes, paragliders have an airfoil shape that allows them to glide and climb on thermal currents. As you run for takeoff, the wing inflates and forms a crescent shape. Once airborne, the wing’s aerodynamic design generates lift, enabling you to glide gracefully across the sky.
Key Components of a Paraglider
- Canopy: The fabric wing with internal cells that hold its shape when filled with air.
- Lines: High-strength cords connecting the canopy to the harness, distributing weight evenly.
- Harness: The comfortable seat where the pilot and passenger sit during flight.
- Risers and Brakes: Straps with controls used to steer and manage the paraglider’s angle of attack.
Paragliders fly by converting potential energy (height) into kinetic energy (forward motion). By pulling on the brake toggles, the pilot changes the wing’s shape and direction. Small adjustments create turns, increase or decrease speed, and control descent. Safety is built into the design: modern wings are stable and can recover quickly from minor disturbances.
How Pilots Steer and Control
Pilots control the wing through weight shift and brake input. Leaning left or right shifts weight across the harness, helping initiate turns. Pulling the left or right brake toggle slows one side of the wing, inducing a turn. To glide farther, pilots maintain hands up, allowing the wing to fly at its most efficient angle. To descend, pilots pull both brakes gently or perform a series of S-turns to lose altitude gradually. These simple controls make paragliding accessible and intuitive for first-timers, while advanced pilots master techniques like thermal circling and wingovers.
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FAQ – How Paragliders Work
What keeps a paraglider in the air?
The wing’s airfoil shape creates lift as air flows over it, supported by rising air currents (thermals).
How do pilots steer?
Pilots use weight shift and brake toggles to change direction and speed, making turns smooth and controlled.
Can a paraglider stall?
Yes. If brakes are pulled too hard, the wing can stall. However, modern wings are designed to recover quickly with proper pilot training.
Is paragliding the same as parachuting?
No. Paragliding uses a glider wing for sustained flight, while parachuting involves a non-glider canopy designed for descent after a jump.
What happens if there is no wind?
Paragliders can still launch and fly in calm conditions by running on a slope to inflate the wing and using thermals to gain lift.