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P1 – Beginner

P1 – Beginner This is the introductory stage where the student learns the basics and takes their first steps. What it includes: Equipment familiarization, ground handling (kiting), launching from low-incline slopes, and straight-line flights. Goal: For the pilot to understand how the wing responds to control toggles. At this stage, flights are very short and at low altitudes.

35 hours8 modulesCertificate

What You'll Learn

  • Paraglider structure and how it works
  • Ground handling exercises — canopy control
  • Safe takeoff technique (Forward & Reverse Launch)
  • Basic in-flight maneuvering — turns, speed control
  • Landing techniques — Top Landing & Bottom Landing
  • Meteorology basics for pilots
  • Emergency management and basic SIV knowledge
  • Flight regulations and etiquette

Requirements

Prerequisites

  • Minimum age 18 years (16 with parental consent)
  • No prior experience required — course is for complete beginners
  • Medical certificate about health condition (ECG optional)

Equipment

  • Paraglider (EN-A class) — rental available on site
  • Helmet (CE EN 966 or EN 1077 standard)
  • Reserve parachute (rental available)
  • Mountain boots with ankle support
  • Radio communication (VHF radios — provided by school)

Physical requirements

  • Weight between 55-120 kg (matching paraglider weight range)
  • Average physical fitness — ability to walk uphill with equipment

Other

  • Sunglasses with UV protection (recommended)(recommended)

Description

P1 – Beginner This is the introductory stage. The student learns the fundamentals and takes their first steps. What it includes: Equipment familiarization, ground handling (kiting), launching from low-incline slopes, and straight-line flights. Goal: For the pilot to understand how the wing responds to the control toggles. During this stage, flights are very short and at low altitudes.

Course Curriculum

6 modules 25 lessons Estimated lesson time: 29 h

History and Evolution of ParaglidingFree20 min
Aerodynamics FundamentalsFree30 min
Equipment Overview25 min
Video: Paragliding in GeorgiaFree15 min

+1 module

View Full Syllabus

Gallery

7

Videos

1

damsdn

Theory Materials

16
01

Aerodynamics Fundamentals - Explained Simply

Understand how your wing creates lift and keeps you flying. Learn simple, easy-to-understand concepts using everyday analogies - from why air pressure pushes your wing up, to how you control your paraglider with brakes. Master the key ideas that every P1 student must know.

02

Meteorology for Paragliding (Made Simple)

Reading the weather is the most important skill for a paraglider pilot. Learn in simple terms how the sun creates "air elevators", which clouds are your friends, and when it is best to stay on the ground.

03

P1 - The Importance of a Paragliding Helmet

In paragliding, a helmet is the most critical piece of protective equipment. Many beginners mistakenly believe that a motorcycle or ski helmet is sufficient; however, helmets specifically designed for flight have unique characteristics tailored to the sport's needs.

04

P1 - Basic Structure of a Harness

In paragliding, the harness is more than just a seat; it is a primary control and protection system. Its design and type directly impact flight comfort, safety, and pilot performance.

05

P1 - International paragliding standards

International paragliding standards ensure that pilots receive uniform, high-quality, and safe education anywhere in the world. Our platform provides a general overview of these standards, divided into several key aspects. Our theoretical courses and practical training sessions are strictly based on these international guidelines.

06

P1 - Mountain Terrain Analysis

Analyzing the flying site terrain and landing/takeoff areas is the foundation of safety in paragliding. A pilot must be able to "read" the environment to determine airflow patterns and identify potential hazards.

07

P1 - Paraglider Lines: Importance, Materials, and Maintenance

Paraglider lines constitute the structural framework that connects the canopy to the pilot's harness. Their proper selection and maintenance are crucial for preserving the wing's aerodynamic shape and ensuring flight safety.

08

P1 - Practical training on a low mountain ridge

Practical training from a low mountain ridge is one of the most vital stages of paragliding education. This is where skills learned during ground handling are transitioned to actual altitude. A low ridge allows for high-repetition cycles of takeoffs and landings, which is essential for building confidence.

09

P1 - Properly folding and storing of paraglider i

Properly folding and storing your paraglider is directly linked to the longevity of your wing. Incorrect folding can damage the Rigid Foils (Nylon rods) that give the leading edge its aerodynamic shape.

10

P1 - radio station (transceiver)

In paragliding, a radio station (transceiver) is not just a communication tool—it is an integral part of active safety. Its proper use is often decisive in preventing incidents, especially during the training process and group flights.

11

P1 - Solo Paraglider Canopy: Classification and Packing Methods

The canopy (wing) is the most critical component of a paragliding system. Its selection must correspond to the pilot's qualification level, as it determines both flight safety and dynamics.

12

P1 - The historical journey of paragliding

The historical journey of paragliding's development is a fascinating path that began with space technology and evolved into a modern extreme sport, eventually becoming a professional adventure activity.

13

Paraglider Equipment and Maintenance

Wing, harness, reserve, helmet, instruments — complete overview and maintenance tips.

14

Safety Protocols

Pre-flight check, reserve parachute, emergency procedures and risk management in paragliding.

15

The Pre-flight Check in paragliding

The Pre-flight Check is the most critical moment in paragliding. Statistically, the majority of incidents occur due to small details that were not verified before takeoff. In international practice, a 5-point check system is established, which every pilot must perform before launching:

16

Why is Ground Handling Important

In paragliding, ground training—internationally known as Ground Handling or Kiting—is of decisive importance. Experienced pilots often say, "A good pilot is revealed on the ground." The more confidently you manage the wing on the ground, the safer and smoother your takeoff and flight will be.

Test Your Knowledge

P1 — Basic Knowledge Test

Test your knowledge on all P1 course topics — aerodynamics, meteorology, safety, takeoff/landing and equipment. Maximum 2 errors allowed out of 10 questions.

Start Quiz

Who Is This Course For

  • Active lifestyle enthusiasts looking to start a new adventure
  • Healthy individuals aged 18-65 with no physical limitations
  • Students and professionals looking for a unique hobby
  • Travelers who want to see mountains from the air and fly like a birds

Instructors

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior flying experience required?

Not at all! The P1 course is specifically designed for complete beginners. We teach everything from scratch — from paraglider anatomy to independent flight. Your starting level is never an issue; our instructors adapt the pace individually for each student.

In what weather conditions do classes take place?

Classes are held only in safe meteorological conditions. Wind speed ≤ 20 km/h, no precipitation, visibility > 3 km. In case of bad weather, we conduct theoretical lessons or reschedule. You will never be put at risk — our instructor evaluates weather forecasts every morning.

How much does equipment rental cost?

Full set rental (paraglider + reserve + helmet + harness) for the course period is 350 GEL for 7 days. Individual items are also available: paraglider — 200₾, reserve — 80₾, helmet — 30₾, harness — 80₾. Indicate what equipment you need during registration.

How safe is paragliding?

With professional training and proper equipment, paragliding is one of the safest air sports. Our statistics: 10,000+ training flights without incidents. Every student is equipped with a reserve parachute, radio communication, and CE-certified helmet. Training is conducted exclusively on EN-A (safest class) paragliders.

What happens if the weather is bad and we can't fly?

Bad weather days are automatically added to the course duration — you don't lose any flying days! During such times, we conduct: theoretical lectures (aerodynamics, meteorology), simulator exercises, video analysis of previous flights, and equipment maintenance practice.

Are accommodation and transport included in the course price?

The course price includes: all training sessions, instructor service, radio communication, and P1 certificate. Accommodation and meals are not included, but we help find budget options in Gudauri (avg. 60-120₾/night). Transport from the flight site to camp is free.