The paramotor is an air sport that combines a paraglider with a motor, typically worn on the back of the pilot. Here is an overview of the main aspects of this activity:

Equipment

The paramotor consists of several essential components:

• The wing: It is a paraglider adapted for motorized flight and approved for this activity.
• The engine: Generally thermal, but electric versions also exist.
• The harness or seat: It connects the pilot to the engine and the wing.
• The helmet: A safety element, it must be certified to EN926-1.
• The emergency parachute: An additional safety device in case of a significant issue during the flight.

Safety

1. The paramotor is considered one of the safest ways to fly when piloted correctly.
2. The pilot's position under the wing offers good stability.
3. In the event of engine failure, the device behaves like a slightly heavier paraglider.
4. Its low speed (around 40 km/h) allows for easier avoidance of risky areas.

Regulation

In France, the practice of paramotoring is regulated:

• The aircraft is classified as a Class 1 ULM.
• Pilots must obtain a theoretical and practical license issued by the DGAC.
• Its use is limited to declared airfields for professionals, but it is tolerated outside these areas for recreational pilots.

Advantages

The paramotor has several advantages:

• Ease of learning and longer flights are more accessible than paragliding.
• Relatively affordable compared to other air sports. After paragliding, it's the cheapest way to fly.
• Ability to take off and land on small surfaces.

In summary, the paramotor offers a unique flying experience, combining the freedom of paragliding with the autonomy of a motor, while remaining accessible to a wide audience thanks to its relative simplicity and moderate cost.