FAQs
Anyone curious to enter this sport, often ask the same questions. Here are a few of the most frequently asked!
Is this sport safe?
Obviously this sport has inherit risks, but many of those risk are easily controlled and mitigated. The safety of Paramotoring has been argued as along line with motorcycles and paragliding, But even those are not one to one comparisons. You can learn more about the risks in this sport by visiting the Risk Page
How Much Does it Cost?
The paramotor itself can range from $5k-$9k
Wings are generally $3-4k. Some money can be saved by going with used gear, but generally, a used motor is better than a used wing. Wings age faster, lose performance characteristics. Wings have also evolved a lot recently, making newer wings much safe than older wings.
How High and How Long Can I Fly?
The airspace we can fly in allows for flying up to 18,000ft but its not advisable. Oxygen levels up there are not conducive to consciousness. FAA rules limit fuel tanks to 5 gallons of gas. On a general set up, this is enough fuel for about 3 hours of flying.
What if the Engine Dies?
A good caution pilot always flies as if the engine is about to go out. Meaning, while flying, one should always have a place in mind to land in the case of an engine out. Then, when it does occur, its it usually uneventful. Engine stops, and you just glide down and land. Then you hope you can solve the problem, launch again and head home!
Am I going to Die?
Unfortunatly, Flying paramotors is not a fountain of youth, and it cannot stop the inevitable. BUT, paramotoring is one heck of a way to pass the time and see the world. With the right training and the right choices, this is a sport that can be enjoyed by many for years to come! We will all die someday, but flying paramotors is a great way to live!