FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT TANDEM FLIGHTS
Where will we fly ?
We select the launch location for your tandem flight according to the weather. We can give you a general estimate of where we will fly based on the forecast a few days in advance, but the final decision will be made the day before the flight. We will send you a confirmation by text message the evening before (or through Whatsapp, if that suits you best). It will include all the necessary information for you to join us at the right location (chosen launch, time, GPS coordinates of the meeting point).
As much as possible, we aim for the Semnoz launch. However, weather conditions may require us to move to a different location and in such cases, we have several alternative sites. We may suggest flying near Aix-les-Bains at the Belvedere du Revard, or north of Lac du Bourget at the Sapenay. Another option is in the Combe de Savoie between Albertville and Chambéry, at the Montlambert or Chamoux-sur-Gelon sites. Occasionally, we also use some sites in the heart of the Bauges mountain range.
You can find more information about our launch sites (here).
How to get to launch ?
The meeting point that will be sent to you will be either at launch or at the landing site for that flying location. Our driver will shuttle you back to your starting point in all cases.
If we are flying at the Semnoz, you can use the buses provided by the city of Annecy as part of the “Mobil’été” program to get to our meeting spot. Depending on where you come from, it will either be the S4 (from Annecy), S5 (from the west shore of the Annecy lake) or S6 (from the Alby-sur-Chéran area). They run:
- every weekend and public holiday in June and September (€1.50)
- every day from July 1st to August 31st (free)
On the S4 line, you also have the option to put your bike on the bus for an additional €5. You can find all the information and schedules (here).
What happens when I get there ?
If our meeting spot is at landing (most locations), we will make our way to the launch in our shuttle before the flight. If we are meeting at the launch (Semnoz), we will get flying first, and will shuttle you back to our starting point after the flight.
When we arrive to launch, you can have some time to take pictures of the view while the equipment is set up for you. Your instructor will explain the launch process in detail and provide you with a helmet and a harness, the seat used in paragliding. Once securely attached to your pilot, a short run together will allow the paraglider to lift above the both of you and gently hold you up as you glide into the horizon. Then, you will enjoy the amazing views of the valley, mountains or lakes before landing smoothly.
What if we cannot fly ?
Certain weather conditions such as rain, strong wind, fog or thunderstorms can prevent us from flying. In such cases, the tandem will be rescheduled to another time based on your availability.
What should I wear ?
When paragliding, we move at approximately 35 km/h, similar to the speed of cycling downhill. As a result, the perceived temperature is lower than the ambient temperature. Additionally, we may gain some altitude, making the temperature even colder. We recommend wearing at least a fleece/sweater and a windbreaker/jacket. A down jacket, some gloves and a snood may be useful in the spring and autumn when temperatures are cooler. It is advisable to wear sturdy footwear like sneakers or hiking shoes. Sunglasses are also a good idea.
Who can do a tandem flight ?
Almost anyone can take part in a paragliding tandem experience! That’s the beauty of this sport. There is no age limit, whether for children or older individuals. You just need to be able to walk or jog a bit for takeoff.
Weight can be a limiting factor. Our wings are designed for a maximum weight of 220 kg (including equipment, about 15 kg). It is important to keep in mind that with a heavier load, more speed is required for takeoff. However if a headwind is helping us, this becomes less problematic for takeoff, and weight can even become an advantage if the wind is strong. Therefore, we ask individuals weighing over 80 kg to book their flight in the afternoon, and we have a maximum limit of 120 kg.
As for people with disabilities, it is possible to do a tandem flight with an adapted wheelchair but unfortunately, we are not currently equipped with one. Despite this, it may be possible for you to do a tandem with a few adaptations on our part. Feel free to contact us to discuss this further.
Steering and/or aerobatics taster, what is that ?
These are two options that we offer our passengers to try for free on the DISCOVERY, THERMAL, PRESTIGE and MAJESTIC flights (when conditions allow).
Steering the paraglider, once in the air and in calm conditions, is pretty straightforward. There are two controls: one on the left to turn left, and one on the right to turn right. If you wish, we will let you control our trajectory and experience the joy of being a pilot for a few moments.
For aerobatics, however, we will take the controls back! If we are high enough above the landing field and only if you want to, we could do some exciting tricks such as swings, spirals and wing-overs. These manoeuvers are very gradual, and your pilot will be attentive to your preferences for more or less amplitude. Of course, there is no obligation to perform any of these. It is your flight, and you can totally finish it on a gentle and mellow note if that is what you want.
What if I’m afraid of heights ?
In paragliding, contrary to what one might think, there is no sensation of vertigo. Vertigo occurs when your feet are on the ground, and you look into the void. In paragliding, you will not have this problem.
Can you experience motion sickness ?
The air is an element that acts a little bit like the sea or the ocean at times. In the morning, it is usually calm and serene. As the sun heats up the air, it starts to move, somewhat like waves in the sea. These upward air currents allow us to stay up in the air and fly for longer in the afternoon.
If you are sensitive to motion sickness in cars or boats, no worries. We recommend choosing a “DISCOVERY FLIGHT,” which takes place in the morning in perfectly calm air. Also, it’s important to know that out of all people prone to motion sickness, many are not triggered by a tandem flight. If at any point you don’t feel good, please inform your pilot who will adjust the way they fly to ensure your comfort. Preventive medications can also be taken to address these issues.
Can I take photos/videos with my phone or GoPro during the flight ?
Yes, no problem! It is entirely possible to take photos or videos with your smartphone or camera during your tandem. However, it is important to secure your device with a small string, leash, or strap around your neck because we cannot be held responsible if it were to fall during the flight.
The pilot is responsible for any object that might fall from the paraglider and cause harm to others. For this reason, a pilot may decide not to allow you to use your device if they judge that it is not securely attached or if flying conditions are not favorable. That is also why each pilot is equipped with a GoPro and will be able to capture images that will help you remember this magical moment forever. We have extensive experience in this field and are used to delivering quality pictures and video sequences.
Are the instructors certified? Am I insured for the activity?
Yes. All of our instructors are certified and highly experienced with a perfect safety record. They have undergone a paragliding instructor training that lasts about 2 years full-time before being qualified to teach and take passengers on tandem flights. You do not need to subscribe to additional insurance because each instructor is covered by insurance for themselves and their passenger.