About Airborne and Frequently Asked Questions
On this page, you will find out more about
the history of Airborne, how we operate and help you and we answer a
number of frequently asked questions. Please click below to 'jump'
to the section of interest;
Meet the crew
Hang Gliding FAQ's
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to enlarge
Hang gliding is the original self
launch aircraft. The original Rogallo invented by Francis Rogallo when he
was working for NASA in the 1960's space programme. These high performance
flying machines are capable of speeds in excess of 70 mph and a glide
ratio of 12:1 plus. This combined with higher take off and landing speeds
mean that it will take you longer to learn than paragliding, which, if you
are a newcomer, we recommend you try first.
Airbornes’ roots go back to the
Northern School of Hang Gliding founded in 1973. We were the first school
in the country and since that time the club has taught literally thousands
of pilots the art of hang gliding.
The sport of hang gliding offers you
the exhilaration of speed and the advantage, once you are skilled, of
flying in slightly stronger winds. The weight and bulk of hang gliders
demands that you are fit and strong. In addition, you must be keen,
enthusiastic and have much patience. With applied effort, you will be
rewarded with the delights and challenges that hang gliding offers.
Our courses run full time using the
very best hills in the Pennines. We have courses in Winter in the warm
climate of Lanzarote. Our centre is based on a 17th Century Yorkshire farm
in the heart of the Pennines, close to Hebden Bridge. UK Training is on
hills within easy commuter distance from Leeds or Manchester. You will be
trained to the highest standards. On qualifying you will receive a
certificate and can join the Airborne Club. Annual club subscriptions are
only £29.
How do you start?
We normally meet at 10 - 10-30 am
and after a brief theory session, you will be on the hill learning how to
control the hang glider without taking off. Once you can manage this you
will attempt to make your first flights on gently sloping ground, no
higher then some kitchen steps. Your first flights will be tethered for
your safety. As your skill and confidence increases, you will progress
higher up the hill to make longer, higher solo flights. At this stage we
will use two way radios to guide you safely through the air. Those first
soaring flights may take some months since we require perfect conditions -
it is worth waiting for!
Do I need to take all my days at
once?
No, in fact with British weather it
is unlikely that you will get a full course completed in one go. Most
people come at weekends or two days at a time. Unless you are very fit
that will be enough anyway!
Can I get
personal accident insurance?
Yes, click
here
Skyfloaters
A Skyfloater is a modern entry level hang glider.
These are much easier to fly than its’ predecessors, which traditionally
were designed for maximum performance and not necessarily for ease of
flying. You Once you purchase your "Skyfloater" you will soon be able to
progress swiftly and safely within the Club environment.
What is Skyfloating?
Well originally conceived by Colin Lark, a pioneer
of hang gliding, he aimed to solve the inherent problems of hang gliding –
weight, difficulty of flying, transportation not to mention the name! Hang
gliding just conjures up an image of well … death, to put it bluntly and
he felt the whole sport needed a new image.
The Discovery Skyfloater offers the ultimate in
flying pleasure. It has been designed for easy flying and has safe and
forgiving flight characteristics that will inspire pilot confidence.
The Discovery is ideal for new pilots or recreational pilots and is the
perfect wing with which to improve your flying skills or just have FUN!
Light to carry, quick and easy to rig (only 12 battens to insert) and very
user friendly, it packs down to half its length in only a couple of
minutes (to between 2.9 and 3.1mtrs depending on size).
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