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PARAMOTOR
You are now at paramotor FAQ. To get some background of what is paramotoring are all about? Look no further, you'll find all the facts right here. Let browse it to give yourself a better view and understand of the sport.

We would like to invite you to step off the Earth for a while...

Our courses are designed to help you to learn to paramotor as easily and safety as possible.

We specialise in all aspects of paragliding flight, and we can make it easy for you to join the thousands of people who have already taken their first steps in the air and realised the dream of Leonardo da Vinci...

Not surprisingly, beginners have a lot of questions about the sport of paramotoring. Although they will not be completely covered here, we will try to address some of the more common questions about paramotoring.  

  What about learning to fly a Paramotor?
 
What to expect on your Paramotor course?
  Are the instructor qualified?
  What is paramotor?
  Do I required to learn paragliding first before learning Paramotoring?
  I do Paragliding. Can I do Paramotoring without training?

  What does the training consist of?

  Is it Safe?
  What speed do paramotors fly at?
  What height can a paramotor climb to?
  Is it possible to take off just anywhere?
  What is the flying range of a paramotor?
  What is the maximum wind speed a paramotor can fly in?
  How much do they weigh?
  Which type of paragliding canopy can be used with a paramotor?
  Which type of fuel does it use?
  How long does it take to learn to fly?
  Are there 'professional' uses for paramotors?
  Do I need a Pilot's License ?
  What are the legalities of flying a Paramotor?
  How much does Paramotoring cost?
  What happens if the engine stops?
  Trainning methods

  How much training is needed to fly solo?
  Is training required by law?
  How long can I fly?
  What are the physical requirements?

  Who can fly?
  What do I get upon completing the course?
  What should I wear
  Do I have to buy my own gear?
 
Where will the class be held?
 
Where will the fly be held?
 
How long is the course?
 
How do I enrol?



What About Learning To Fly A Paramotor?

Almost anyone can learn to fly a paramotor. However, a degree of fitness and mental agility is required. Although it is easy to fly, it is nonetheless still "aviation". The pilot’s attitude to safety and airmanship is what ensures an accident free flying career. Remember there are old pilots and there are bold pilots, but no old bold pilots! You have to learn to control a paraglider very well before you embark on any paramotoring.

Inflation techniques (getting the canopy to come up overhead), launching, turning, controlling flying speed, landing approach, landing, and canopy handling are all skills which need to be mastered.

You have to be familiarised with the powerpack: Assembly, disassembly, starting, throttle control, power cut off, fuel/oil mixing, maintenance, torque and thrust effects, special dangers.

When proficiency has been reached in those two elements, they can be combined to tackle powered flight.

As well as the practical work, you will have to learn some basics in the following subjects: principles of flight, meteorology, aviation law and safety(ground & flight).

Obviously if you already have an aviation background, your learning curve will be accelerated. Typically, an established paraglider pilot will be able to "upgrade" in a couple of days.

A complete beginner with no aviation background will need upwards of 10 days of tuition.


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What To Expect On Your Paramotor Course

You will be thoroughly introduced to the equipment, learn safety techniques, canopy handling and inflation techniques, as well as performing solo flying tasks at 300 feet above ground level.

At all times your progress will be monitored, until you are ready to conduct a first solo flight.

You will continue to consolidate your paramator skills as and when appropriate.

Under radio guidance, you will perform first solo flying. The course ends with a first solo flying, which will be performed to the satisfaction of your instructor in order to achieve the rating. There is an examination to pass during your licensing process.

Are the instructor qualified?

Our instructors are registered with Malaysia Paramotor Association (MPA) and certified by the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) Malaysia, who is the governing body for the sport.

 

 
Paramotor equipment

What is Paramotor?

This new sport allows pilots to operate by themselves from a small field; ideal for flat areas of the country! A small 2-stroke motor mounted onto the rear of a dedicated harness drives a propeller and thus provides thrust. This self-contained unit transforms a standard paramotor wing into a powered aircraft which can be transported in the back of an average car. Paramotoring is regulated by the DCA in this country, Titan Dive Team joint cooperation with MPA and were proud to be the center to be able to offer a complete training package for paramotoring, whether for beginners, or conversion from an existing paragliding licence.

A motorized paraglider or paramotor is an aircraft that allows people to fly alone or with a passenger. This is aircraft is build with a wing of a flexible material under which with cables and belts a power unit is attached with one or two seats. The most common description often given is 'a parachute with a propeller'.

It is this simple description that often leads to confusion about paramotoring. A paramotor normally does not parachute from an altitude, and one does not jump from a plane. A paramotor flies and takes off from the ground like an airplane. The so called parachute/glider is actually a wing that is inflated through air movement. Once inflated the wing has similar properties as the wing of an airplane.

Take off with a paramotor is from the ground up. Before take off the wing is inflated through a forward movement. Air must be flowing for the wing to retain it's shape. On a calm day this means dragging the wing through the air. Once the wing is above the pilot a start can be undertaken after a quick check above the head.

"Building a wall"
An other essential part of a paramotor is the power plant. A wing only flies if it moves through air. While your feet still touch the ground you can move the wing by running, but at a certain point your feet start bungling in the air. A motor with propeller should do the job. Depending on the size and weight of the motor different configurations are possible.

While a standard paraglider needs a hill or mountain to self launch, adding a paramotor unit enables take off to be achieved within a few paces from any suitable flat field. Unlike hill flying, the wind direction is not important and there is no minimum wind speed required. A paramotor is, however, a fair weather machine - flying in strong or gusty winds is not recommended. A paramotor has a fuel duration of up to 3.5 hours, making cross-country or extended local flying a possibility. Landing out near a petrol station can get you back in the air straight away!

The engine can be switched off once airborne to glide gently back down to earth for a slow power-off landing. Alternatively you can use thermal lift to climb to cloudbase, or soar in ridge lift in the same way that sailplanes, hang gliders and paragliders can when favourable conditions exist. An electric start allows re-starting of the engine in mid-air, extending the possibilities of this versatile motor-glider.

With the paramotor disconnected, you can use your paraglider wing and harness to fly from hills or mountains, joining the thousands of people who already enjoy this unique sport throughout Europe and beyond. However, paragliding wing normally not advise for paramotor.

Further it needs to be noted that paramotoring is not an extreme sport. Statistics prove that flying a paramotor is the safest way of flying. The limited mass and speed make paramotoring very safe. So, never fly without properly being trained in theory and practice by a qualified instructor. Ignorance is often more dangerous than flying.

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Do I required to learn paragliding first before learning Paramotoring?

NO! Experience with paragliding before learning Paramotoring does have advantages, but is not required. One can start Paramotoring without any experience in Paragliding. Paragliding and Paramotoring are related techniques, but nevertheless very different. If have no intention to do Paragliding, a training in this discipline is not required.

I do Paragliding. Can I do Paramotoring without training?

No! Paramotoring and Paragliding are different. Mass is different and a paraglider experiences a different position and inertia. The power unit also has its effect on flying. The size and weight of the equipment are different. Primary and secondary effects may cause unpleasant surprise to the Paraglider. Please be careful and get Specific Paramotor Training!


What does the training consist of?

A good theoretical training contains following parts:

  • Law and rules of the air
  • Meteorology and Aerology
  • Principle of Flight
  • Flying technics
  • Ground and Flight Safety
  • Power Unit

A good practical training has following parts:

  • Introduction
  • Inflation and Stabilised canopy without power
  • Power handling
  • Inflation with power
  • Take Off

Practical Training

You can only learn to fly by doing it. At first getting the wing up is the hardest. It is learned without the motor on your back. That way you learn how to feel the wing. You learn how it behaves in the air. Be careful when there is some wind.

Once you know how to get the wing above your head, you are ready to try with the motor on your back. Once you feel confident, you can try with a turning motor.

Getting the wing above your head is something you can practice on your own. It is however easier with a trainer. His tips make you learn faster. It is not necessary to get out of your harness everytime. The goal is to be so experienced in setting up the wing that you know how to react in all situations.

With radio, you can then make your first flight. The instructor will tell you what to do. After three or more flights you are used to the wing and you have enough feel to fly. You should not be overconfident. You still have to exercise precision turns and precision landings. Expercise a lot and don't take unnecessary risks! Avoid accidents!

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Final check from the Paramotor instructor before student take off for their first solo flight...



Is it Safe?

It is certainly the most predictable air sport; because it uses a flexible wing like a parachute, if the engine fails, it is this parachute which allows a gentle descent, giving a gentle stand-up landing. If the wing is not perfectly set up, take-off becomes very difficult, reducing the risks of taking off in poor conditions. The canopies used are designed to cope with flying in very strong conditions (mountain flying for example), but while paramotoring, are only used in calm, laminar air, so paramotoring offers even more safety than free flight. It is the easiest air sport to learn, and the best of all...

What speed do paramotors fly at?

The same speed as paragliders, which is around 20 kph (slowest) and 35 to 50 kph (depending on the type of wing used). The slowest take-off speed is around 40 kph. This is dependent on the air mass in which you are flying. Ground speed is obviously dependent on the current wind-speed. Contrary to popular perception, a more powerful paramotor does not fly faster, but will climb out quicker. Whichever engine you use, you will have the same horizontal speed.

What height can a paramotor climb to?

To the maximum height at which the motor will function, that is to say several thousand meters. In use, a 2-stroke combustion engine gives out less power at higher altitudes - when the motor gives out less power, the thrust from the unit is less, and the climb rate decreases. When the climb rate is nil, with the engine just allowing you to maintain level flight, you have reached your maximum height.

It is worth knowing that a paramotor has already passed over Mont Blanc at 5,100 meters - at the moment the officially recognized height record is 3,050 meters, many Adventure factory pilots have ascended to 3 or 4,000 meters. This kind of height gain is of mostly academic interest; one thing, though, is certain - it is very pleasant to cruise about at 150 or 200 meters, visiting different areas.
This is a reasonable altitude to give a good safety margin and allow you to maneuver to choose an appropriate landing area.

Is it possible to take off just anywhere?

Yes technically; no legally... it is effectively possible to take off almost anywhere, as long as conditions are right, you are taking off into wind, and you've not set up in the lee of a mountain, building or suchlike.
For the utmost safety, you must always fly in good conditions. A football pitch size field is an example of a suitable paramotor take-off area. Having said that, it is not legally permissible to take off <<just anywhere>>, notably too close to towns, and of course near airfields or in restricted areas. You must check local rules and airspace restrictions around your chosen flying area.

Every country has different air laws, and while the general guidelines are the same world-wide, local details may differ.

What is the flying range of a paramotor?

This depends essentially on the weight of the pilot, the performance of the chosen wing, and of course on the quantity of fuel on board! A <<typical>> paramotor, using a canopy of reasonable performance, with a flier whose weight is in a reasonable range for the combination, will use between 3 and 4 liters of fuel per hour on average, giving around 2 hours and a half range with a 9,5-liter fuel tank.


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What is the maximum wind speed a paramotor can fly in?

Take-off can be achieved with no problem up to 8kph - any more than this, and you need to perform a reverse inflation and then turn round to take off.
The limit of wind speed for take-off is around 20 to 25 kph, but with 20 to 25 kph wind on the ground, the wind-speed could be 30 to 40 kph at altitude, and it may not then be possible to penetrate forwards, only to go backwards over the ground.

How much do they weigh?

Adventure paramotors range from 14kg for the F1, up to a maximum of 20kg for the larger units, around 22kg if you include an electric start option.

These are the lightest units on the market, allowing you to run easily without too much weight on your back, and to take off easily. You can add around 4 kilos for every 5 liters of fuel to your overall weight.

Which type of paragliding canopy can be used with a paramotor?

Any canopy designed and constructed for foot-launching can be used. It is advised that paragliding canopy is not use for paramotor (like using motorcycle engine on a bicycle).

Which type of fuel does it use?

Any petrol is suitable, preferably 4-star leaded, used in a mixture with synthetic 2-stroke oil at 2% mixture.It is very important to use synthetic oil at 2% or mineral oil at 4% in normal use to avoid problems.

How long does it take to learn to fly?

For a complete novice, it takes around 5 days to achieve complete freedom on a paramotor and it takes further from 20 to 30 sorties more to be proficient.

Are there 'professional' uses for paramotors?

Yes, and new ones devised all the time. The first people to realize the potential of paramotors professionally were photographers. They found it a very simple method of taking aerial photos for a very small cost (the total cost of a paramotor rig is equivalent to a few hours of helicopter hire). It allows one to arrive by car at shooting locations, take off on the spot, and get the required shots.

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Do I need a Pilot's’License ?

YES! A Private Pilot Lisence (Restricted), PPL(R). Training is required to become proficient in the proper use and operation of the Paramotor.

What are the Legalities of flying a Paramotor?

All aircraft must respect the DCA Order and international aviation law. Pilots must carry at least an airspace map and an altimeter, in order to avoid flying in prohibited areas.

Landowner’s permission is required for take off and landing.

Aviation law spells out the rules of how close one may fly to towns, clouds, airports etc., and there are some special rules applying to paramotors, which must be complied with.

How much does Paramotoring cost?

With a budget of RM30,000 (depending on the unit chosen) you can buy new equipment and cover the basic tuition fees, making it by far the cheapest form of powered flying available. Second hand equipment is sometimes available, reducing the figure a little. The beauty of flying a paramotor is that you won’t need to pay landing fees, hangarage, trailer, CofA renewals, check flights etc... Running costs are minimal - an hour’s flying costs less than RM10 in fuel and oil!

There are many other accessories which you may want to buy although they are not essential - this includes instrumentation, a GPS (global positioning system), wind speed indicator, windsock, radio transceiver, headset, electronic rev. Counter, flying boots, helmet with ear defenders, barograph, etc. (emergency back up parachute, map holder, thinsulate flying suit for high altitude flying).

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What happens if engine stops?

Directional steering is controlled through the Paraglider canopy, therefore not dependent on engine power. You are already under an open parachute that comes down 6 to 10 times slower than those used by skydivers.

Trainning Methods

In all of these training methods, students are introduced systematically to flying:

  • Introduction to Paramotor via video / practical / lecture
  • Take off practices / Inflation / Stabilising
  • Groung and Flight Safety on Emergencies
  • Flying procedures

They are also shown the equipment and go over it so that they understand how it works.


How much training is needed to fly solo?

A Minimum of 40 hours over 10 days maximum of training is usually the norm.

Is training required by law?

YES! However Titan Dive Team requires student to have minimum 10 days course to be able to conduct first solo flying on paramotor.

How long can I fly?

First solo flight will be 20 minutes. Later, the flight depends on individual up to 2 hours.

What are the physical requirements?

In general, the prospective student should be in reasonably good physical shape and be able to carry 28 kg of weight.

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Who can fly?

Absolutely anyone over the age of 17 there is no upper age limit. A reasonable physical fitness is enough, and the only requirement is to have a full range of body movement, and to be able to run a few meters with 28kg weight on your back.

We do require a medical certificate, although anyone with skeletal problems, weak ankles etc. should think twice about flying; anyone under 18 must have parental consent. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to give us a call.



landing...

take off...



What do I get upon completing the course?

You will be given a certificate upon graduating. You will fly under our supervision until you able to sit for exam and obtain lisence from MPA/DCA once competent.

What should I wear?

Apart from a spirit of adventure, all you need to bring is warm, layered clothing; footwear with rigid soles and ankle support is essential. Long trousers stop grazed knees if you stumble.

Do I have to buy my own gear?

You have the choice of having your own gear.The equipment is very expensive, in the range of about RM30,000. Our advice is, for your first few fly, it is better for you to rent it from us. Once you are hooked to the sport than you can decide to buy one for yourself.

Where will the class be held?

The ground training will be held at Serdang Perdana.

Where will the fly be held?

Flying will be at Pulau Indah, Klang or other designated places for outside klang valley student.


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How long is the course?

We required a maximum of 10 day course. Which will be:

Day 1: Friday from 5pm to 7pm
Day 2 to 3 : Saturday and Sunday (Full Flying)
Day 4 to 8 : Monday to Friday from 5pm to 7pm
Day 9 to 10 : Saturday and Sunday (Full Flying)

How do I enrol?

Simply walk-in to our office at Ballzaction or contact Steven Kiyoda at 012 2681636 to enquire for the course. You may also email us your enrolment confirmation to titan@maxis.net.my enquires when the next courses are held and the number of student/friend is participating. If you have a group and the number is sufficient to run a course, you can fix your convenient date and we will try to accommodate your request.

The class require minimum of 5 students and above to start the course.

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Titan Dive Team