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So firstly let’s get things straight…
Paragliding is not the same thing as Skydiving, we do not jump, ever! Although the perception is that we “jump” from mountains we like to think that we fly.
Well in fact that is indeed what we do, we do fly!
Paragliders are designed to fly, we call them Wings.
A wing has the ability to create a force perpendicular to the flow of air over it and against the force of drag, this aerodynamic is called lift.
An average paraglider gets a lift-to-drag ratio of about 8:1 with the high-performance wings around 12:1
When we take off from the mountain the glide ratio enables us to glide around and look for more lift.
1) Ridge lift / Dynamic lift
2) Thermic lift
3) Wave lift
4) Convergence
In this article, we will discuss Ridge lift / Dynamic lift
Firstly for Ridge lift to form we need wind from a specific direction, a certain speed (between 15-25km/h and not more than 45′ side onto the ridge.
The image above displays the areas of lift, as you can see, lift is only formed in certain areas of the mountain/slope as well. The more straight onto the ridge (90 degrees) the wind the better the lift.
The purple lines show the airflow, the air clearly gets forced upwards by the slope, and this is where we find the best lift.
We try to maximise our time spent in these areas of lift thus also maximising our time aloft.
The only thing that keeps us aloft without finding lift is our glide angle, which means we are actually constantly going down.
That is why we are always looking for a lift. We do also use fancy in-flight equipment to help us stay in the lift which we will discuss in the upcoming articles.
In our next article, we will discuss Thermic lift.
For more information on paragliding or to book your next paragliding session, please feel free to contact us at Fly Cape Town and we will be glad to help you.
The Fly Cape Town team are a group of highly experienced Tandem Paragliding Flight Instructors who can provide you with the best paragliding Cape Town has to offer. Come and experience the joy of a tandem paragliding flight in the beauty of Cape Town.
To have the experience of a lifetime. You can contact us either by email or contact number
Ridge lift, also known as dynamic lift, occurs when wind flows over a ridge or slope, creating upward air currents. For ridge lift to form effectively, the wind must come from a specific direction and at a speed between 15-25 km/h. The best lift is found when the wind hits the ridge at a 90-degree angle. Paragliders can maximize their time in these lift areas, allowing for longer flights. Understanding ridge lift is crucial for beginners to enhance their flying experience.
A paraglider stays aloft primarily through lift generated by the wing as it interacts with the airflow. While the glide angle allows for some descent, pilots constantly seek lift to maintain altitude. There are various types of lift, including ridge lift, thermic lift, wave lift, and convergence. By utilizing these lift sources, paragliders can extend their flight time and enjoy the experience of soaring through the skies. Learning to identify and use these lifts is essential for beginners.
As a beginner paraglider, essential equipment includes a paraglider wing, harness, and helmet. Additionally, you may want to invest in a variometer, which helps measure altitude and rate of ascent or descent. Proper clothing and safety gear are also important for comfort and protection during flights. It's advisable to consult with experienced instructors or schools to ensure you have the right gear tailored to your needs and skill level.
During your first paragliding flight, you can expect a thrilling experience as you soar through the air with an experienced instructor. Safety briefings will be provided, and you will learn about the equipment and flight techniques. The takeoff will be smooth, and once airborne, you will enjoy breathtaking views. The instructor will guide you throughout the flight, ensuring your comfort and safety. It's an exhilarating introduction to the world of paragliding, leaving you with unforgettable memories.
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Cape Town,
Western Province
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