kilograms ( . – . lb). Combined weight of wing, harness, reserve, instruments, helmet, etc., weigh around – kilograms ( – lb).
Speed of Paragliders The speed range of paragliders is typically – kilometres per hour ( – mph). Carrying Capacity and Storage of Paragliders For storage and carrying, the wing is usually folded into a stuff-sack (bag), which can then be stowed in a large back- pack along with the harness. The complete equipment packs into a rucksack that can be carried easily on the pilot’s back, in a car, or on public transport. Instruments Instruments used in paragliding are— .
Variometer: The main purpose of a variometer is to help a pilot find and stay in the ‘core’ of a thermal to maximise height gain and, conversely, to indicate when a pilot is in sinking air and needs to find rising air. A variometer also indicates the climb rate or sink- rate with short audio signals (beeps, which increase in pitch and tempo during ascent, and a droning sound, which gets deeper as the rate of descent increases) or a visual display. It also shows altitude — either above takeoff, above sea level or flight level at higher altitudes. .
Radio: Radio communications are used in training to communicate with other pilots, or to report where and when they intend to land. These radios normally operate on a range of frequencies in different locations. In rare cases, pilots use radios to talk to airport control towers or air traffic controllers. Many pilots carry a cell phone so they can call for pickup if they land away from their intended point of destination.
. GPS (Global Positioning System): GPS is a necessary accessory while flying in competitions. The recorded Do You Know? Canadian Domina Jalbert invented and patented (in ) parafoil in an aerofoil shape; an open leading edge and a closed trailing edge, inflated by passage through the air.
GPS track of a flight can be used to analyse the flying technique or can be shared with other pilots. GPS is also used to determine drift due to the prevailing wind when