Getting Started
Training, legality, and flying safe.
In the US, paramotors don't require a pilot's license or certification. Training isn't required either, but it's well worth doing. Here's the lay of the land.
Training will save you broken gear and get you flying sooner.
No license or certification is required to fly in the US, but a few days with someone who knows paramotors will shorten your learning curve and spare a lot of equipment. A 7 to 10 day course takes a beginner through kiting, launches, landings, and solo flight.
Typical cost
$1,500 – $3,500
USPPA-certified school in the US
Duration
7 – 10 days
From zero to soloing
vs. private pilot
~10× cheaper
$13k–$18k & 50–75 hrs for PPL
Legality by region
Paramotor regulation varies widely. This is a high-level guide; always confirm with your national aviation authority before you fly, especially for international deliveries.
United States
No license requiredParamotors qualify as ultralight vehicles under FAR Part 103. No pilot's license, medical certificate, FAA registration, annual inspection, or mandatory insurance. Training is not legally required but strongly recommended.
Authority: FAA, FAR Part 103
Canada
Training recommended, basic rulesTransport Canada treats PPG as ultralight: no pilot license required for recreational flight, but pilots must follow airspace and operating rules. Many clubs require a proficiency sign-off.
Authority: Transport Canada, CARS 602
United Kingdom
Training strongly advised, no licencePowered paragliders are permitted without a licence under CAA rules, but BHPA-issued pilot ratings are the practical standard and many landowners require them before allowing launches.
Authority: CAA / BHPA
European Union
Varies by countryRules differ across member states. France, Germany, and Spain require pilot certificates and registration; others (like Italy and Poland) are lighter-touch. Check your national aviation authority before buying.
Authority: National aviation authority
Australia
License via SAFA / ASRAAustralia requires certification via SAFA (Sport Aviation Federation) or ASRA. Expect ~15 days of training and a practical sign-off before flying solo.
Authority: SAFA / ASRA
Elsewhere
Always check local aviation authorityIf your country isn't listed, your national civil aviation authority is the definitive source. Local paramotor clubs and Facebook groups are the fastest way to find out what regulations apply in practice.
Authority: Your national aviation authority
Safety essentials
A few habits worth building before your first flight.
Training recommended
No license or certification is required to fly a paramotor in the US, but you'll be better off (and likely to break less equipment) learning from someone who actually flies them. At minimum, get hands-on time with a paramotor pilot you trust. In general, we recommend a full-time, reputable instructor. USPPA-rated is a good signal.
Fly with a reserve
A reserve is a really nice backup. It might not be useful in every situation, but for most flying styles and locations it's well worth the weight and cost trade-offs. Not a requirement, but highly recommended. The Angel SQ V2 is a popular side-mounted option that fits the SP140 Dudek harness and is sized to your all-up weight.
Respect the weather
Paramotor pilots fly in the morning and evening for a reason: midday thermals turn benign air into something your wing won't like. Learn to read forecasts before you rely on your eyes.
Electric reduces some risks
No ground starts, no spinning prop during wing setup, no fuel fire, much less vibration. The SP140 Electric eliminates several of the injury vectors common on gas paramotors. Flying still demands judgement.
Community and learning
The fastest way to get good is to talk to people who already are. A few of the best places to start.
OpenPPG Community Forum
Build logs, flight tips, power system deep-dives, and a busy marketplace. Start here if you're cross-shopping or troubleshooting.
Open forumOpenPPG YouTube
Assembly walkthroughs, first flights, config tool tutorials, and real-world pack-down tests. Great for visual learners.
Watch videosUSPPA: US Powered Paragliding Association
Find a certified instructor in the United States. Ratings range from PPG1 (student) to PPG4 (cross-country). Industry standard certification body.
Find a schoolQuestions we didn't answer?
The FAQ goes deeper on training, safety, batteries, and buying. Or email us directly. You'll reach the people who design and build the product.