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.
6 modules • 24 lessons • 14 h 30 min
+1 more modules
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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
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
The pilot must learn in-depth weather forecast analysis to plan safe and long-duration flights.
4 min
Experience and Education Lasha Japava’s journey in paragliding began in 2006, followed by professional certification in 2014 in Gudauri under the mentorship of the renowned instructor Anatoly Mikhailuta. To further refine his expertise, he pursued international practice in Annecy and Chamonix (France) and mastered critical flight safety skills through intensive SIV (Simulation d'Incidents en Vol) courses in Turkey. Professional Career and Industry Contribution Since 2017, Lasha has been operating as a Tandem Instructor in Gudauri. Concurrently, he established training programs for local youth across various regions of Georgia, significantly contributing to the popularization of paragliding as both a sport and a sustainable business. In 2018, he co-founded the National Paragliding Federation of Georgia, and in 2019, he established the "Xcaucasus" Association for Paragliding Development and Promotion. Innovation and Location Development With the support of the European Union and the Ministry of Economy of Georgia, Lasha successfully pioneered and developed new flight sites in Rustavi, Tetnuldi, Gonio, and Kvariati. These locations now play a vital role in both commercial tourism and specialized safety training. Academic and Regulatory Activities Lasha is currently collaborating closely with the government to establish safety regulations and a robust certification system. He is the author of a digital paragliding manual and has developed comprehensive training syllabi currently submitted for departmental accreditation. Achievements and Future Vision With extensive experience that includes 120 km Cross-Country (XC) flights and an average of 200 flight hours per year, Lasha’s future goals focus on the global promotion and development of Georgia’s paragliding locations. He is dedicated to empowering the next generation of Georgian pilots to become leaders in the international paragliding industry.
