Paragliding GeorgiaIrakli Khvistani – Paraglider Pilot and Tandem Instructor Early Career and Professional Development Irakli Khvistani’s journey in paragliding began in 2019 after meeting Lasha Jafava. Under Jafava's instruction, Irakli completed a comprehensive paragliding course between 2019 and 2020, covering Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced levels. In 2024, he further enhanced his qualifications by participating in a specialized tandem paragliding training course organized under the auspices of the Paragliding Federation of Georgia, subsequently earning his Tandem Pilot License. Work Experience and Projects Irakli Khvistani’s professional career is diverse and extensive: Svaneti: Since 2020, he has been actively involved in commercial tandem flights alongside Lasha Jafava, particularly during the winter seasons at the Tetnuldi ski resort. During this period, he also participated in a project funded by the EU and USAID, which aimed to train and mentor local youth in Svaneti in the art of paragliding. Adjara: During the summer seasons of 2022–2023, he actively conducted commercial tandem flights in the coastal flight zones of Gonio and Kvariati. Gudauri: Since 2023, he has been collaborating with the company "Tatra," operating and conducting commercial tandem flights in Gudauri under its banner. Entrepreneurship and Activism Irakli Khvistani is a leading activist for the "Paragliding Development and Popularization Association – Xcaucasus" and has been deeply involved in the organization’s work since 2019. In parallel with his professional growth, he established his own company, "Paragliding Georgia." To attract tourists, he developed a personal website and is registered on various international platforms. Current Activities Today, Irakli Khvistani is a leading tandem pilot, providing professional-grade services to both local and international clients. In addition to his work in Gudauri and Svaneti, he regularly conducts commercial flights in the Tbilisi and Rustavi regions.
