
T1 - Tandem Recreational Pilot Course
This course is designed for experienced pilots who wish to perform non-commercial flights (such as flying with friends or family members). Prerequisites: A minimum of a P4 (Advanced) level license and flight hours (typically 100-200 hours). Training Focus: Specifics of tandem paragliding equipment. Passenger communication and pre-flight briefing. Launch and landing techniques under dual-load (increased weight) conditions. Restriction: The pilot is not authorized to accept monetary compensation for flights.
What You'll Learn
- Tandem aerodynamics and wing management
- Passenger briefing and communication
- Tandem launch and landing techniques
- Emergency procedures with passenger
- Thermal flying with tandem
- Site assessment for tandem operations
Requirements
Prerequisites
- P3+ certificate
- Minimum 200 flights and 100+ hours
- First Aid certificate
Equipment
- Certified tandem paraglider (EN/LTF)
- Tandem harness, passenger harness, radio
Physical requirements
- Strong physical fitness (carrying extra weight)
Description
Course Curriculum
6 modules · 25 lessons · Estimated lesson time: 16 h 30 min
+1 module
View Full SyllabusTheory Materials
01General Training Structure of the T1 (Tandem Pilot Level 1) Course
The T1 (Tandem Pilot Level 1) course is a critical transition stage where a pilot evolves from an individual athlete or hobbyist into a professional with high legal and ethical responsibility. At this level, the primary focus shifts from personal flying enjoyment to the rigorous management of passenger safety.
02T1 -The Importance of SIV in T1 Training
The role of the SIV (Simulation d'Incidents en Vol) course in T1 retraining is not just additional training—it is the science of survival. In tandem piloting, where the system’s mass and inertia are doubled, any aerodynamic incident (collapse, rotation) develops much more aggressively and rapidly than in solo flight.
03T1 Course Description and Objective
The description and objective of the T1 Course serve as the foundation upon which a professional tandem pilot's career is built. This is not merely an "additional certification"; it is a profound mental and technical transformation of the pilot.
04T1 Examination Components
The T1 Category Examination is the final filter that confirms a pilot is ready to take responsibility for another human life. It is not merely a demonstration of skills; it is a test of adequate response under crisis conditions.
05T1 Practical Training Phases
Practical training for the T1 Course is the phase where theoretical knowledge is transformed into real-world skills. Tandem piloting requires not just wing control, but the coordination of a crew under high physical and psychological pressure.
06T1 Significance of Training Modules
In the retraining process, these three components form the "Golden Triangle" of tandem piloting. Mastery of these details is what distinguishes a certified pilot from a true professional. Each one is directly linked to the prevention of critical incidents.
07T1 Theoretical Training Syllabus
The T1 Course Theoretical Syllabus is the fundamental knowledge base that transforms a pilot from an individual athlete into a professional aircraft commander. Every detail—from the physics of the equipment to the psychology of the passenger—is directly linked to flight safety.
Test Your Knowledge
Who Is This Course For
- Experienced pilots with P3+ certification
- Pilots wanting to fly with family and friends
- Aspiring commercial tandem pilots
Instructors
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do paid tandem flights with a T1 certificate?
T1 is a recreational tandem certificate, allowing you to fly tandem with friends and family, but commercial flights require T2 certification and commercial insurance.
How many tandem flights will I do during T1?
T1 has 6 modules and 25 lessons. The practical part includes minimum 20 tandem flights in various conditions under instructor supervision.
Do I need to own tandem equipment?
During the course, the school provides full tandem equipment (wing, harnesses, reserve). Own equipment is needed for independent flying after certification.

