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XParagliding — tandem paragliding platform in Georgia
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X-AcademyIntermediate

P3 – Intermediate

At this level, the pilot is experienced and begins flying in more challenging conditions. What it includes: Finding and "coring" thermals (warm air currents) to gain altitude, and flying in moderate turbulence. Requirements: Typically requires a minimum of 30 to 60 independent flights at various locations.

25 hrs6 modulesCertificate
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P3 – Intermediate

What You'll Learn

Finding, entering, and centering thermals
Advanced weather analysis and forecasting
Cross-country flying fundamentals
Flying techniques in turbulent conditions
Independent flight decision-making
Skills for flying at unfamiliar sites

Requirements

Prerequisites

  • P2 certificate (APPI, IPPI or equivalent)
  • Minimum 100 independent flights
  • Flight logbook with minimum 50 hours recorded

Equipment

  • EN-B class paraglider (own or rental)
  • Vario and GPS instrument
  • Reserve parachute, helmet, radio

Physical Requirements

  • Good physical fitness — endurance for 4-6 hour flights
  • Comfort at altitude (2000-3500m above sea level)

Description

The P3 Intermediate pilot course is designed for pilots who have completed the P2 Novice level and are ready to advance their skills in more challenging flying conditions. This comprehensive training program covers thermal flying techniques, cross-country navigation basics, advanced weather analysis, and flight in moderate turbulence. Students will learn to find, enter, and core thermals efficiently, understand air mass dynamics, and develop the judgment needed for safe independent flying at diverse sites. The course combines classroom theory with extensive practical flight sessions under instructor supervision. Upon completion, pilots receive APPI P3 certification, enabling them to fly independently at unfamiliar sites and in thermal conditions. This level marks the transition from supervised student to autonomous pilot.

Course Curriculum

6 modules • 24 lessons • 14 h 30 min

P3 Level Requirements and ObjectivesFree30 min
Advanced Aerodynamics Concepts30 min
Video: P3 Pilot Flight AnalysisFree15 min
Exercise: Flight Planning15 min

+1 more modules

View Full Syllabus

Theory Materials

6
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General Foundations for Paragliding P3 (Intermediate Pilot) Level
1

General Foundations for Paragliding P3 (Intermediate Pilot) Level

Moving to the P3 (Intermediate Pilot) level is a significant milestone in a paraglider's journey. It marks the transition from being a "student" to becoming a "pilot of the skies," where the focus shifts from basic mechanics to mastering invisible forces, long-distance navigation, and advanced safety.

4 min
P3 - Cross-Country (XC) Fundamentals and Air Law
2

P3 - Cross-Country (XC) Fundamentals and Air Law

Cross-Country (XC) flying is the pinnacle of paragliding, where technical skill, strategic thinking, and respect for aviation law converge. At the P3 level, a pilot learns how to safely transition from "local" flying to long-distance navigation.

4 min
P3 Advanced Meteorology
3

P3 Advanced Meteorology

The pilot must learn in-depth weather forecast analysis to plan safe and long-duration flights.

4 min

Test Your Knowledge

📝 P3 — Flight Theory Test

25 questions│5 errors allowed
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Who Is This Course For

Pilots holding P2 certification
Pilots wanting to fly in thermal conditions
Pilots preparing for cross-country flying

Instructors

Frequently Asked Questions