May/June 2023 SkySailor has landed. Check out stories about Manilla XC Camp 2023, Powered paragliders capture the state of nature above seven summits, Women with Wings do SIV, Lies, Damned Lies, and Statistics, AIRS Safety Wrap-up and more.
It was 60 years ago in September 1963, Australian inventor John Dickenson set out to build a water ski wing that could be released at altitude and glide to a safe landing. John’s developments leading the way for sports aviation globally. See how our sport evolved into a world-popular pastime.
Rich Binstead is set to take on the Red Bull X-Alps in June 2023. Rich is the sole Australian athlete competing for the first time as a Rookie in this year’s gruelling event.
Our Craft
Paragliding
A Paraglider pilot sits in a harness below a fabric wing that holds its shape through suspension lines and air pressure.
Hang Gliding
A Hang Glider pilot is suspended in a harness below a rigid wing which is usually an aluminium frame covered in a synthetic sail cloth.
Powered Paragliding
Powered Paraglider or Paramotor pilots wear a motor on their back which provides enough thrust to take off with a Paragliding wing, specifically designed for motored operations.
Microlight & Powered Hang Gliding
Microlight trike pilots sit in a propeller-driven trike, suspended below a wing similar to a Hang Glider. Powered Hang Gliders have a small engine contained within the harness allowing launch from flat ground.