FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Two-seaters
  • Am I ready for a tandem flight?

    There are no obvious prerequisites to enjoy a tandem flight, except for health conditions that may limit the activity. This exciting aerial sport is designed to be accessible to all, with no prior experience necessary. With the guidance of a qualified instructor, you'll be ready to take flight and enjoy a unique adventure. During the experience, a slight rollover will be required for takeoff and landing, making it suitable for people of all ages, from young children to seniors. We also have a tandem paraglider with a motor, specially designed to provide the opportunity to fly for those with reduced mobility. The Benasque Valley offers a privileged natural setting, ideal for experiencing this unforgettable aerial experience. Come take off!

  • Time has flown by!

    It's the phenomenon of time perception. During a two-seater flight, adrenaline and excitement make time pass more quickly for the passengers, making it seem as if the flight was shorter than expected. This perception of shortening coincides with other moments in which you experience intense and pleasant situations.

  • I have vertigo, can I fly?

    As a general rule, vertigo isn't experienced, even if the person does. With paragliding, we lack spatial reference points for that feeling of vertigo to arise. We have friends who have a hard time climbing a ladder, but they have no problem flying.

  • Under what conditions does the paraglider fly?

    Castejón de Sos is a prime area for free flight. Sheltered by the Pyrenees, its valley breezes mean the number of flyable days per year is truly high. Paragliding, like any aircraft, has a flight margin. It's best not to fly in strong winds over 30 km/h, or in approaching storms, or even in rain, as this is unpleasant. It doesn't matter if it's cold or cloudy, although a sunny, warm day is certainly more suitable. In winter, technical clothing blocks out the wind and cold.

  • Do you have to jump over a cliff to take off?

    We don't jump over any cliffs! We take off gradually and smoothly; the takeoffs are grassy and have a gentle slope. The transition from running to flying is imperceptible; in fact, the passengers continue running in the air unconsciously.

  • Are you very scared when paragliding?

    It's common for passengers to experience nervousness, especially during the moments before and after takeoff. However, this tension quickly dissipates, as a sense of calm sets in once we're in flight. Sitting next to the instructor allows us to talk with him, and he allows us to listen to his explanations about the flight area and the surrounding mountains.

  • When landing, do you fall from a very high place?

    Unlike takeoff, landing transitions from flying to running, but it's smoother because we use the entire surface of the paraglider to brake, as we're moving horizontally, so there's no vertical drop. Landing speed is usually similar to takeoff. The difference is that for takeoff, we can choose the desired breeze, and when landing, we do so with the breeze we're comfortable with. That is, if there's a headwind when landing, we slow down. If, on the other hand, the breeze stops, we'll have to match the speed of the paraglider when landing, so we'll have to run a little faster.

  • Is the flying position very uncomfortable?

    Today's flying chairs are so comfortable that some pilots, when not flying, use them in their garden to relax, hammock-style. They can fly for many hours without feeling uncomfortable.

  • Can I bring my camera or video camera?

    No. The instructor will have a secured camera with which to capture photos and videos, which he'll show you upon landing. You can purchase it without obligation if you wish. We fly at over 1,000 meters above sea level, and any improperly secured object can cause a serious accident.

  • Can I get dizzy flying?

    It's not common, but if you're prone to motion sickness, whether in cars or on boats, we recommend taking a Biodramina one hour before your flight. The vast majority don't get motion sickness, but some people are always more sensitive than others. It's advisable not to overeat or drink before flying, and to rest if you're feeling motion sick from the car ride. We have an emergency bag available during the flight.

  • Are there many accidents in paragliding?

    Paragliding as a flying device is as simple as it gets, and simplicity goes hand in hand with safety. Accidents, which do occur, are all due to human error: underestimating flight conditions, flying in conditions unsuitable for the pilot's skill level, overconfidence, flying with paragliders unsuitable for our skill level. We fly tandems for the pleasure of the passengers, but we are the first to cancel a flight if it doesn't meet minimum safety margins due to weather conditions.

  • Is the passenger in the back?

    The passenger rides in front and the pilot rides in the back, for several reasons, but above all for the passenger it is more comfortable and they have a greater field of vision and can move more freely, but the most important is that for the pilot they have greater control of the paraglider by flying in the back.

  • You really work doing what you love!

    Of course, you have to enjoy working with a two-seater, but some of the magic is lost for us when we have responsibilities, obligations, and schedules. It's not the same feeling as at the beginning, but we are comforted by the expressions of joy and pleasure from our passengers.

  • Are we covered by insurance?

    Of course. In the region of Aragon, to work with mountain sports activities, the Government of Aragon requires you to be listed as an "Active Tourism" company. To do so, you must meet certain requirements, one of which is having adequate insurance for adventure activities.

  • Won't we trip while running during takeoff?

    Throughout the flight, including takeoff, we're joined by "spacers" or ties. These are long enough for us to run at the same time without tripping. But don't forget to tie your shoes properly.

  • Is taking off on skis easy?

    Yes, for both the pilot and the passenger, because you don't have to run, just let yourself glide toward the steepest slope. The level of skiing required is minimal, although it's necessary, since if you can't fly, you'll need to ski down. Taking off on skis is actually easier than on foot, since matching flight speed for takeoff or landing requires no effort.

  • Do we take off on snow and land on grass?

    It can be common on flights from the ski resort and landing in the valley, where we'll be covering elevation gains of over 1,000 meters, to find there's no snow on the landing surface. But this isn't a problem; you can land very well and comfortably on grass, allowing the speed to dissipate through friction with the grass.

  • What are the most delicate moments on a two-seater flight?

    Contrary to what most people believe, it's not when we're at our highest point, but quite the opposite. The most delicate moments are takeoff, landing, or flying very close to the terrain. During the takeoff and landing phases, the paraglider is often flown at a low speed, making it slow to react and risking stopping if, due to any unforeseen event, we reduce the speed below the minimum. Flying very close to the terrain can be very exciting, but a small carelessness can cause us to encounter trees, rocks, or simply the ground in our path.

Speedriding
  • Am I ready to take a Speedriding course?

    You don't need previous experience with paragliding or any similar aerial sport, but we do require an intermediate level of skiing, meaning you can comfortably ski parallel on red runs, without looking or paying attention to your skis.

  • What happens if you're going too fast while speedriding and want to brake?

    The skis prevail over the wing. The rider dissipates the accumulated energy with a decisive skid, and if we simultaneously apply the mini-wing's brakes, it's even better. They can also trace a diagonal and lose speed more gradually.

  • I'm a world paragliding/skydiving champion, can I do speedriding?

    If you don't know how to ski, NO, having a confirmed level of skiing on a red run will help you progress. But your knowledge will make your progress safer and faster.

  • I have a paraglider, can I do speedriding?

    No, Speedriding equipment is specific to the activity. The reduced takeoff speed and greater glide than mini-gliders will make it difficult to fly, with the resulting risk of overflying facilities and runways.

  • I snowboard, can I speed ride?

    No. Skis are required for this practice, and snowboarding equipment is not recommended due to the gliding position. It's important to keep in mind that as soon as we have a lot of lift or jump, it will be impossible to keep the board pointing at the maximum slope, as the anchors that connect us to the mini-glider force us into a position that is incompatible with proper board positioning. All riders use skis. However, once you know how to speed ride on skis, you can practice it with your board on days with strong winds, when you can get traction and don't need to lose altitude. On these occasions, you use speed riding like a kite.

  • I have a Speedflying glider, can I use it for Speedriding?

    No. Its design is intended for gliding, and despite having a lower glide speed than a paraglider and being able to adjust it to the minimum, we would only take off at slopes of 14º. Also, due to its larger surface area, takeoff speed is lower than with Speedriding equipment.

  • Is speedriding suitable for me as an introduction to speedflying?

    No. The modalities, although complementary, are different. You'll find the piloting in flight similar, but takeoffs and landings are very different on skis and on foot, and we'll need to properly adapt with a course to change modalities.

  • What level of skiing do I need?

    The skiing level is a "C" (corresponding to basic parallel). We must be able to descend red runs without hesitation, initiate controlled turns, and control speed on steep slopes.

  • And after the course?

    Yes, you can practice in designated areas, provided you have completed the corresponding level of the course. If you are coming independently, you must contact us before starting the activity. If you are a high-level rider and would like to access other areas, please contact us. You can consult the protocol for independent speedriding at the Cerler ski resort in the "Info" menu, although we would be happy to explain it to you over a call.

  • When can I become self-employed?

    Depending on the slope and terrain characteristics, different levels of autonomy are achieved. Complete autonomy is achieved after completing both courses: beginner and advanced. This normally takes two seasons. However, the school keeps track of each student's progress and will issue a certificate with their level so they can practice in other locations. The Freeride level is for improvement.

  • Can speedriding be practiced anywhere other than within a ski resort's ski area?

    Yes, in fact, their ultimate philosophy is to do it off-piste, in the mountains. To do this, you need a high level of skiing technique, mini-glider handling, and flying skills. Most speedriding areas in European resorts are off-piste.

  • Do you have to walk anywhere?

    No, access to the designated areas is always done on skis.

  • Will my usual boots and skis work?

    Yes, you don't have to change anything. However, when you're off-piste, having equipment geared specifically for that makes it easier. For example, All-Mountain skis would be more than sufficient. The Pyrenees are characterized by hard snow, and generally, you could do it with slalom skis, but be careful when the snow becomes crusty or deep, freeride skis are best.

  • How do you descend faster when speedriding or skiing?

    On gentle slopes, a skier always goes faster. But on steep slopes, a normal skier generally has to regulate their speed and brake, whereas a speedrider, on the other hand, can accelerate fully because they have a bit more lift.

  • I practice skydiving and paragliding, will it help me with speedriding?

    Knowing flight mechanics greatly benefits the final stages of the beginner's course, where short glides are performed, and is crucial in the progression course, as these involve flights with greater elevation gains. As we've said before, without a proven skiing technique, nothing is worthwhile.

  • What is more physically demanding, speedriding or skiing?

    Skiing is clearly more physical. Keep in mind that the mini-glider always generates a significant amount of lift, and turns rely not only on the skis but also on the aerodynamic controls. However, the smaller the mini-glider, the more physical action it requires on our part.

  • Is it possible to make descents without flying?

    If that's the philosophy of Speedriding, it's about skiing supported by the mini-glider. We can also adjust the glide angle with the trimmers.

  • Is it possible to go down very steep slopes (more than 45º) without flying?

    Yes, but skiing technique is crucial, and controlling the speed of the skis is crucial.

Paragliding
  • Am I ready to take a paragliding course?

    You don't need any previous experience; we'll start from scratch. We'll provide the materials, but you have the desire!

  • Time has flown by!

    It's the phenomenon of time perception. During a two-seater flight, adrenaline and excitement make time pass more quickly for the passengers, making it seem as if the flight was shorter than expected. This perception of shortening coincides with other moments in which you experience intense and pleasant situations.

  • I have vertigo! Can I fly?

    As a general rule, vertigo isn't experienced, even if the person does. With paragliding, we lack spatial reference points for that feeling of vertigo to arise. We have friends who have a hard time climbing a ladder, but they have no problem flying.

  • Under what conditions does the paraglider fly?

    Castejón de Sos is a prime area for free flight. Sheltered by the Pyrenees, its valley breezes mean the number of flyable days per year is truly high. Paragliding, like any aircraft, has a flight margin. It's best not to fly in strong winds over 30 km/h, or in approaching storms, or even in rain, as this is unpleasant. It doesn't matter if it's cold or cloudy, although a sunny, warm day is certainly more suitable. In winter, technical clothing blocks out the wind and cold.

  • Do you have to jump over a cliff to take off?

    We don't jump over any cliffs! We take off gradually and smoothly; the takeoffs are grassy and have a gentle slope. The transition from running to flying is imperceptible; in fact, the passengers continue running in the air unconsciously.

  • Do I fly solo from the beginning?

    The future pilot is guided by radio from the start; there is a monitor for takeoff and another for landing, and he is constantly monitored and directed depending on the flights he undertakes.

  • Are you very scared on your first flight?

    We've been preparing for this moment with theoretical and practical classes. We're going to put everything we've learned into practice, and it's rather liberating, as we're done with the steep slope training and the panicky climb with the paraglider on our shoulders. Everything happens in a controlled environment with instructors during takeoff and landing.

  • When landing, do you fall from a very high place?

    Just like during takeoff, the landing is smooth, as we use the entire surface of the paraglider to brake. It is true that if there is no wind at all during landing, there is always a little residual speed, but it does not usually exceed 5 km/h.

  • Is the flying position very uncomfortable?

    The current chairs we use for flying are so comfortable that I know some pilots who, when they're not flying, keep them in their garden to relax, like a hammock. You can fly for many hours without feeling uncomfortable.

  • Can I fly anywhere?

    Absolutely NOT! Flight locations must meet minimum requirements regarding takeoff orientation, prevailing wind, its direction and intensity, suitable terrain for the takeoff run, ability to extend the paraglider without entanglement, landing within the paraglider's gliding capacity, and not be in a restricted area. Furthermore, if you have recently completed the course, it is advisable to fly in recognized locations and never alone.

  • Can I get dizzy flying?

    It's not common. It's the same as driving: we don't get motion sickness if we're driving, but being carried is much more likely. The vast majority don't get motion sickness, but some people are always more sensitive than others. It's advisable not to overeat or drink before flying, and to rest if you're feeling motion sickness from the car ride.

  • Are we covered by insurance?

    YES, there are several types of insurance. The minimum coverage is the one that covers you for the duration of the course, then there are quarterly, semiannual, and annual options. All insurance policies always expire on December 31st, regardless of the date of purchase.

  • Are there many accidents in paragliding?

    Paragliding as a flying device is incredibly simple, and simplicity goes hand in hand with safety. Accidents, which do occur, are all due to human error: underestimating flight conditions, flying in conditions unsuitable for the pilot's skill level, overconfidence, flying with paragliders unsuitable for one's skill level. Learning at an official school reduces the risk (in Spain, paragliding is not mandatory!). We fly tandems for the pleasure of the passenger, but we are the first to cancel a flight if it doesn't meet minimum safety margins (always depending on weather conditions).

  • I've eaten more this season, will paragliding be able to handle me?

    Paragliders are certified by an international organization, and the first thing they go through is the structure test. If the paraglider manufacturer says the maximum load is 105 kg, the structure test subjects it to almost 10 times the maximum weight. And if it doesn't break, they move on to other types of tests related to flight quality (some manufacturers take the structure test to the limit, and paragliders break between 1,500 kg of force... and some more). In any case, you have to choose a paraglider for the weight it will carry, although they have a weight range of around 20 kg.

  • Can the Initiation and Progression courses be taken consecutively?

    Of course, we will have fresher concepts and make better use of our time,

  • What are the most delicate moments on a two-seater flight?

    Contrary to what most people believe, it's not when we're at our highest point, but quite the opposite. The most delicate moments are takeoff, landing, or flying very close to the terrain. During the takeoff and landing phases, the paraglider is often flown at a low speed, making it slow to react and risking stopping if, due to any unforeseen event, we reduce the speed below the minimum. Flying very close to the terrain can be very exciting, but a small carelessness can cause us to encounter trees, rocks, or simply the ground in our path.

Speedfly
  • Am I ready for a Speedflying course?

    If you've previously taken a Speedriding or Paragliding course, you're ready!

  • Does a speedfly fly faster than a paraglider?

    The difference in speed between a paraglider and a speedflying miniglider can range from 7 km/h to 30 km/h, with even more maneuvers. A speedflying miniglider is faster than a paraglider and more agile.

  • What is the difference between Speedriding and Speedfly?

    In general, Speedriding wings have a higher sink rate since it's not important when riding with skis on; Speedfly wings have a bit more finesse, since we'll need to take off and land on foot. The philosophy of Speedriding is to ski. And, in general, the philosophy of Speedfly is to fly following the contours of the terrain.

  • Is the Speedfly dangerous?

    Compared to paragliding, we travel at higher speeds, which lowers the risk factor. Therefore, we require students to have completed a previous paragliding or speedriding course, or to come from another aerial discipline such as skydiving. If you meet this requirement, we'll teach you the rest.

  • Is the Speedfly only for flying close to the relief?

    No. Since the sails are small and light, they're ideal for mountain flights. Being faster, they're a great complement for speedsoaring on days when you can't take out the paraglider, since Speed sails can handle higher wind speeds. Finally, wing loading is an important factor, as it protects our wings from potential turbulence.

  • I just finished the paragliding beginner's course. Can I try the Speedfly?

    The school's methodology and dedication to all four flight modes will ensure you never miss a flight during your booked week. If your level doesn't allow you to safely continue with a Speedfly course, don't worry; we'll adapt you to classic paragliders.

  • How difficult is it to take off and land with a speedfly?

    As we explained earlier, the risk margin is lower than with a traditional paraglider. Therefore, we need to work on takeoff and landing techniques before going on a real flight. We also need to review the pre-takeoff check protocols.

  • Can I use my paragliding harness for Speedfly?

    No. It can also be very dangerous. Small gliders can also collapse if flown in strong turbulence. If you add a paragliding harness with a board, you might tip toward the collapsed side and enter autorotation with the miniglider. Speedfly harnesses generally don't have boards to smooth out the motion transfer.

  • Are we covered by insurance?

    Of course. In the region of Aragon, to work with mountain sports activities, the Government of Aragon requires you to be listed as an "Active Tourism" company. To do so, you must meet certain requirements, one of which is having adequate insurance for adventure activities.

  • Do we take off on snow and land on grass?

    It can be common on flights from the ski resort and landing in the valley, where we'll be covering elevation gains of over 1,000 meters, to find there's no snow on the landing surface. But this isn't a problem; you can land very well and comfortably on grass, allowing the speed to dissipate through friction with the grass.

  • What are the most delicate moments on a two-seater flight?

    Contrary to what most people believe, it's not when we're at our highest point, but quite the opposite. The most delicate moments are takeoff, landing, or flying very close to the terrain. During the takeoff and landing phases, the paraglider is often flown at a low speed, making it slow to react and risking stopping if, due to any unforeseen event, we reduce the speed below the minimum. Flying very close to the terrain can be very exciting, but a small carelessness can cause us to encounter trees, rocks, or simply the ground in our path.

Talk to us today!