Paragliding in Colombia offers breathtaking views of never-ending green valleys and forever sunsets, combined with a safe and adventurous environment. But in the thrill of flying through the skies, safety should always be a top priority for any pilot. One of the most important aspects of ensuring safety is to avoid situations that could lead to a reserve toss above the Colombian terrain. Here are some key strategies to help you avoid these situations and ensure a safe and enjoyable paragliding adventure in Colombia.
1.1. Prioritize safety training:
It is important to do a proper safety training before you start chasing kilometers with your glider. Taking the SIV (Simulation d’Incident en Vol) course is highly recommended. These courses provide invaluable insight into how to handle "emergencies" and how to recover from critical situations when you loose controll. For flying XC, especially excercises such as "pitchpendulum", "collapses", "cravatte recovery" and "recover from auto-rotation" should be practised intensively. By knowing these situations and how to handle them, you will be better prepared to respond faster and effectively if turbulence or other unexpected issues arise during your flight. A SIV usually just takes 3 days, so it should be not a matter of "too less time" ;D
Check out SIV courses here: SIV Course in Colombia
2.1. Know your glider inside out:
Understanding your paraglider is essential for safe flying. This includes knowing how it responds to different conditions, how fast it can fly, and how it responds to inputs. A basic maneuver, and usually the first maneuver you will learn in an SIV is "Pitchpendulum", for many pilots it might seem like an unnesassary exercise but it teaches you the most important principles of your glider; the maximum and minimum speed - meaning, how much can you break your glider before it stalls and how much can it shoot in the front without getting a collapse.
3. Don't Rush Milestones:
While it's natural to want to push your limits and to want to make an epic XC flight, like everyone else in Colombia, it's essential not to chase kilometers at the expense of safety. Focus on improving your skills and building confidence gradually. Resist the temptation to fly in conditions or locations that may be beyond your current abilities. Instead, prioritize flying in familiar environments and gradually expanding your comfort zone under safe conditions. Remember, the journey to becoming a proficient pilot is a marathon, not a sprint. If you need guiding or personal training to strenghten your skills, dont hesitate to reach out to more experienced pilots or consider to book a guided tour.
4. Choose Beginner-Friendly Locations:
When selecting a flying site in Colombia, consider factors such as terrain, weather patterns, and level of difficulty. While destinations like Roldanillo may offer thrilling experiences for experienced pilots, they may not be ideal for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed flying environment. Places like Piedechinche are known for their gentle thermals and beginner-friendly conditions, making them well-suited for pilots looking to improve their skills in a supportive setting. Prioritize safety and enjoyment by choosing locations that match your skill level and flying objectives.
In conclusion, paragliding in Colombia offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure and exploration. However, ensuring a safe and enjoyable flying experience requires careful preparation, ongoing training, and a commitment to prioritizing safety above all else. By attending safety courses, understanding your equipment, flying responsibly, and choosing appropriate flying locations, you can minimize the risk of encountering situations that may necessitate a reserve toss and enjoy the freedom of the skies with confidence. So spread your wings, embrace the thrill of flight, and remember to always fly safely. Happy flying!
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