Parascending was one of the original forms of paragliding and originates from Sky Diving so that Sky Divers could practice their landing techniques without the need for an plane. Pilots are winched from the ground into air where they release themselves from the tow line and float gently back down to earth with a safe landing.

We are one of the only schools in the country that still offer this simple but effective method of getting airborne. We run training courses in parascending from complete novice courses to those who have more experience and want to fly round or square canopies solo. 

Using the square canopy we can tow use a variety of winches to tow our parascending pilots to heights of 500+ feet which gives our students ample time to learn how to steer the canopy and complete safe landing approaches. We have large open private towing fields allowing us to train our students when other schools are unable to train due to lack of wind or wind in the wrong direction.

The day begins with parachute landing fall training (PLF) to ensure safe injury-free landings, followed by an introduction to equipment, launch, collapse and field packing the canopy. 

First flights are usually only a few minutes long and are controlled entirely by the vehicle driver. After being towed across the field the canopy and pilot are brought gently back to the ground where the student performs a ‘parachute landing fall’.

As students’ progress they will learn to ‘self-release’ the tow line and land on their own. After studying basic flight theory, meteorology and air law, and passing a simple exam, they are ready for their BHPA Club Pilot rating.

Some parascending pilots progress on to fly paragliders, others concentrate on landing target accuracy competitions. Others are simply happy being a team member and enjoying sociable flying weekends, helping with the launching and perhaps progressing on to be a tow ‘operator’ or even an Instructor.

We welcome novices and qualified pilots to come fly with us so get in touch if you want more information.

We are delighted to be the PD Zero official parachute and parascending training centre.