What
is the legal situation with paramotoring in Ireland?
On compleating your
training at a school that is approved by the Irish authority (IAA) you
can apply making sure that your logbook is up to date ,you have an
official school training record of training with school stamp and you
have a current class2 medical cert, only then should you apply to
the IAA for an exemption (Licence) . (
We are the only school in Ireland at present that has authority to
instruct students in this activity)
Where
do you run your courses.? We
run most of our training courses in the Comeragh Mountains in the Clonmel
/ Waterford area.
Do I
have to take my course all in one go?
No, you can take it over different days or weekends, as long as you
complete it within six months. It is better to complete it over a short
period then you do not regress in your training.
We
ask students to put in a special effort to train week days as training
weather is limited and it is not possible to book in everyone for weekend
training!
What
Training Syllabus is
used?
We instruct our students using the
IPPHA training syllabus which mirrors the internationally recognised BHPA
syllabus and is recognised by the Irish Aviation Authority. It is Internationally acknowledged as
being one of the best and safest systems there is, and guarantees the
student very safe progression in a very structured learning environment.
What if my course is cancelled due to unsuitable
weather? Credits are given for lost days and are to be taken within 6 months
(please note, we do not give
refunds!). So if it is cancelled please
re-book as soon as you can.
When should I check for
weather updates?
If you telephone after 21.30hrs the night before your course starts, we
will give you a weather update and confirm that it may be flyable the next
day.
What dates do you operate from and
what day do
the courses start on?
This sport is WEATHER DEPENDENT! We try to operate all year round, but the
weather over the winter is not very kind, therefore we operate between
November and Easter on flyable days and weekends. From Easter through to
October we operate 7 days a week, again subject to weather and student
numbers.
Will I be the only beginner?
We like to start first day students on a Saturday and Monday to ensure
that you are not the only beginner. However, if we have 3 or more of a
group, you can begin your training on any flyable day.
How many people are on the courses?
During the week we average 5 students and at weekends 5+. Students tend
to be at different levels and so the instructor to student ratio for
beginners, is normally 1 to 3 students.
Do you have to be fit?
You will need a basic level of fitness and be in good health (i.e. no
problems with bones, knees and backs). This is an adventure sport in the
country side with an attached risk, broadly on par with skiing. When you
fly down the slope, you will need to walk back up perhaps up to 8-10 times
in one day. Unsure! consult your doctor or ask us. (over 50's need doctor's cert! )
Can women do it as well as men?
Yes and they are usually better at it! You do not need a lot of strength,
but co-ordination and doing what your instructor asks of you helps!
Is there a age & weight limit?
Yes, you must be aged over 16. Although there is no upper age limit, we
advise anyone in an older age bracket to visit their doctor for a health
check (over 50's need doctor's cert! ) - remember there is a reasonable amount of exercise required to keep
walking back up the hill! Maximum weight is around 120kgs.
Who
issues my rating card?
When you have attained the standard of
your chosen course your instructor will apply to the Irish Powered
Paragliding & Hang-gliding Association for your membership/rating card.
What equipment do I have to bring?
We provide all your Flying equipment; you need to bring strong walking
boots with good ankle support and clothing for the weather conditions. You
will also require a packed lunch and plenty of water. Course fee's must be
paid at the start of your training!!
How
do I book my Course? To book a
course of instruction simply click on the booking forms button at the
bottom of this page and notify
us either by mobile or e/mail of
your intentions .
How
do I join the Falcon Club ?
Please click and print off the
FORM
here , fill in the forms
and return them with your payment to: .
How
do I book a tandem flight experience course?
Please click and print off BOOKING FORM
here and post the forms
and with your payment made payable to Jerry Parles,
I will forward on the forms to the Falcon Club secretary. Tandem flying is a fantastic
way to experience Paragliding. The
Pilot in charge will brief you in all matters important to make your
flight Safe, exhilarating and memorable.
