So you wanna fly?

Airexplora Flying School in Oaxaca, Mexico

INTRODUCTORY COURSE P1

Objective
The introductory course in paragliding is based on the understanding of the wing itself and the aerodynamic principles of flight in general. You will be taught the the proper use, care and storage of all the necessary materials as well as understand the fundementals of micrometeorlogy, allowing you to make safe decisions concerning where and when to fly.

As the course progresses, and the instructor feels confident with your understanding and ability, you will experience your first flight. Safely, and confidently progressing under the instructors supervision you will be able to experience and enjoy high altitude flights. Our ultimate goal during the introductory course is to have you flying form a launch site 600 meters above the landing zone.

Course format

* 8 days of flight training at three separate locations
* 3 hours of flight theory
* Use of all neccessary equipment. Wing, harness, radio, helmet.
* Instructional program based on the USHPA (United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association) requirments.
* Diploma and P1 Certification

Cost per person
US$1000. Each course is limited to 4 students.

Description of Course
This introduction course is initially based on ground handling or kiting of the wing. This is to familiarize the student with the basic techniques of inflation or pressurization of the wing and how to apply them to a controlled launch. The student's first relationship with the wing is very subjective. Some people need many days before they feel comfortable with allowing themselves to be lifted, others, within hours, can be making their first flights. On the fifth day of practice the student will be able to make his or her first medium (100 meter) altititude flight. From there, the student can spend more time perfecting kiting skills allowing smoother, more confident take offs and landings.

Remember that paragliding is safe when it's practiced within the limitations of the pilot and the equipment.

PROGRESSION COURSE P2

Objective
The objective of this course is to provide the student with the knowledge and practical skill necessary to fly without direct instructor supervision and to safely asses weather conditions, terrain, stability and his/her personal skill level. Also, to increase the student's confidence and techniques when taking off and landing in 10 to 20 km/hour winds with crosswinds between 15 and 45 degrees. Ultimately, to receive USHPA P2 certification for a novice pilot.

Activities
The course consists of three parts and will cover the following topics:

1) Reverse inflation. We will go over the four standard techniques for reverse inflation and concentrate on two that will be the most effective for the pilot. Three ground school courses.

2) Tecnique for high wind descents. Theory and use of the speed bar, big ears manuever and the application of the two.

3) Applying tight 180 and 360 degree turns to be used as approach, and collision avoidence techniques. Also, instruction and practice manuvering the glider without the control toggles (using the rear risers).

Also, a ground school course using a simulator to properly adjust the speed bar and understand the principles and tecniques of reserve deployment.

The first part of the course will take place at the training hill in Oaxaca. The second and third part of the course will take place at a flying site with more dynamic and demanding conditions for at least two days of flying. The cost of the trip is not included in the course price.

Requirements
Student must have:

* completed the P1 course.
* completed 20 registered flights in at least two different sites.
* his or her own reserve parachute and radio.

Course Price: US$350.

TANDEM COURSE T1

Si quieres aprender sobre los aspectos técnicos para volar pasajeros, comunicate con nosotros. Organizamos cursos 2 veces por año.