Learn

You cannot fly in New York City, but if you happen to live in it, there are options for you. Although there is no license requirement for paraglider pilots in the US, it is a terrible idea to suddenly become a self-starter, even if you own a perfect training hill.

Paragliding in the US is self regulated by the USHPA (US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association). The best way to learn is to find a USHPA certified instructor and to start with the basics. The hardest thing will be to find time and place that works for both of you.

There are instructors who teach a tow launch. But the easiest, fastest and safest way to learn is to start on a bunny hill. On the hill, you will probably have your first flights on day one. Otherwise, be prepared to do a lot of kiting. The closest training hill is at Ellenville Flight Park. It is about 90ml driving, north of the city. The best one in the area is at Morningside Flight Park, about 240 miles north of the city. Some of the best in the country are at Elings Park in Santa Barbara (CA) and Point of the Mountain in Utah.

And there is a Porky Tonic…

Depends on the weather, and in the northeast it is pretty unreliable and unpredictable. For beginner pilots wind restrictions are pretty strict. And some instructors are stricter than others. 

The hardest thing will be to coordinate your free time, with instructors time, and whatever weather has to say. If you are a weekend warrior, there will be very few and far between flying days. If you have a flexible schedule you are in luck, you will have more flying days per year. And if you want to fly in winter, or really want to fly, you better fly away…

And there is a Porky Tonic…

Timewise, USHPA requires eight flying days for P2 pilots to be certified. Most people can learn in ten to twelve days. And when days are not consecutive, you will probably need more.  It is hard to get ten flying days in the area. You might need anywhere from two months to two years, unless you fly somewhere west, and get your ten flying days within fifteen days.

Moneywise, P2 courses go between $2,000 and $3,000. Your first equipment will cost $3,000-$6,000. It depends on what your instructor recommends for your skill level, and if you are buying new or used gear. Whether you are buying new or used, buy it from your instructor. Add flying, driving, and lodging expenses, and there you are.

You need exactly that much money!

And there is a Porky Tonic…