Below are some of our most frequently asked questions about our restricted licence course and hang gliding in general.
General Hang Gliding FAQ
Supervised Pilot Certificate Course FAQ
Is it safe?
Flying an aircraft is inherently more risky than going jogging. The hang glider is a certified aircraft, it is extremely strong in the air and can handle loads of up to +9 and -6 Gs. The only way to break a hang glider in the air is to crash into another aircraft or high obstacle. We supply new gear for training and providing it is set up correctly and pre-flight checked it is an extremely safe aircraft. We will teach you the practical and theory aspects of the sport to the standards set down by the HGFA.
What happens if the wind stops?
You may have seen hang gliders flying around near the coast. They are flying in what is known as ‘ridge lift’. The sea breeze comes in and hits the ridge – effectively blowing them up in the air. As all gliders are slowly sinking (the effect of not having an engine), they rely on this rising air to keep them up. If the wind stops due to a change in weather, the glider lands safely on the ground like any other landing.
How long does it take to set up a glider?
The latest training gliders are very quick to set up. It should take approximately 4 minutes for an experienced pilot to set up the latest training hang glider. Two persons can set up a training glider in less than 2 minutes. See how easy it is with this video!
Are there health or other requirements to hold a hang gliding certificate?
- Yes, the HGFA stipulates you must :-
- Be above the age of 15 years
- Have a health standard equivalent to that of car certificate requirements.
- Have undergone training at a HGFA approved training facility, like here.
- Passed the HGFA theory exam.
- Be a current member of Hang Gliding Federation of Australia.
How do you stay in the air without an engine?
Without an engine, the glider glides (not surprisingly). It converts its height into horizontal motion – so to go forward, it has to also sink downwards. Therefore, to stay up in the air, pilots need to find air that is rising faster than the gliders sink rate and fly in that. On a ridge, this is ridge lift, but inland over flat ground, this rising air is known as a thermal. The sun heats the ground which then heats the air. The hot air rises in bubbles all over the country (much like a nationwide lava lamp) and pilots find these bubbles and surf them up to the clouds!
Do I need to buy a glider before I get there?
No. All the gliders and equipment used throughout the courses are supplied by us, this way we can ensure the students are on the best available equipment. During the later parts of the certificate course you will be given an opportunity to fly a variety of gliders under instructor supervision suitable for your skill level, allowing you to more objectively choose a glider which best suits your needs and ability.
If you have already purchased a glider you should make sure that it is thoroughly inspected and trimmed by an accredited repairer. Obviously gliders must be airworthy and suitable for your skill level. Rohan is an accredited repairer, we offer a full inspection and test fly service for $200.
Dynamic Flight is also a retailer for the Australian hang gliding manufacturers Moyes and Airborne whose gliders consistently prove to be the best in the world. We sell new and used aircraft, which are safety checked, test flown and trimmed.
To give you a rough idea of prices, a new hang glider starts at $5495, used from $800; new custom apron harness $450, used from $250; new electronic instruments (altimeter/vario) $520 used from $200; new reserve parachute $910, used from $400. We offer package deals for our students when purchasing glider, harness, wheels & helmet.
After completing my course can I hire equipment?
Yes, we offer this service, however due to the number of students coming through the school we cannot guarantee there will always be hire gliders available of your choice. Obviously this is a good way to get into the air after your course without spending lots of money but it is wise to book a glider before a day flying.
How many people in a course?
We like to limit the number to 5 students per course.
What sort of clothes would I need to wear for training?
Comfortable long pants and long sleeved shirts, hat, sunscreen, sturdy shoes (hiking type with ankle protection) are all recommended. A windbreaker or waterproof jacket, beanie and gloves (driving or bicycle type) would be handy in case of colder weather. You may also prefer to bring your own bicycle style helmet.
Can I stay close by when I do my course?
Bungalow style accommodation at the school is provided as part of the course costs. You can watch hang gliding videos after the days training or browse local and international magazines. The on-site accommodation includes continental breakfast and all bedding is supplied. Internet access with limited download is available via our supplied computer. See our accommodation page for more info.