Paramotoring rules, do’s and don’ts
Do’s
- Respect the rules given by the NZHGPA and CAA regarding paraglider and paramotor flying
- Be a financial member of the NZHGPA and licensed to fly a paramotor. The license is issued by the NZHGPA.
- Fly in class G airspace (refer to terminal charts) unless you have prior approval, carry an air-band radio and possibly transponder.
- In class G airspace at or below 3000ft AMSL or 1000ft above terrain which ever is higher fly clear of clouds and in sight of surface. Flight visibility is 5km
- Above 3000AMSL or 1000ft above terrain which is higher 2km horizontally and 1000ft vertically from cloud. 5km visibility required
- Always carry an altimeter.
- Fly at a minimum of 500ft AGL and at an altitude not less that required to execute an emergency landing without undue hazard to persons or property on the surface
- You can fly over an populous area or any open air assembly of persons providing you are at an altitude of not less than 1000ft above the highest obstacle within an horizontal radius of 2000ft of the paraglder / paramotor
- If you are uncertain the conditions are not suitable for flying then do not fly
- Do not rush your pre-flight safety check
- If the wing oscillates on launch attempt abort your take off.
- Launch with a shallow climb out. Do not turn until sufficient height has been achieved
- Choose your take-off site that is large enough, that in the event of an engine failure on launch, you can safely land.
- Always fly within your skill level and be conservative in your decision making
- Always fly that in the event of an engine failure you can safely land.
- Should you be flying distance plan your flight. The following needs to taken into account:
- Fuel required, plus add 25%.
- Airspace restrictions, Check your map.
- Hazards.
- Permissions if required.
- Weather and conditions assessment.
- Potential out landings.
- Communication
- Carry light tool kit.
- Always let someone know what your flight plan is.
Don’ts
- Do not fly less than 500ft above the surface. The paraglider may fly below 500ft for ridge soaring if such flight does not danger persons or property on the ground
- Do not fly over large body of water without a life preserver
- Do not fly low level down wind.
- Do not fly in winds in excess of 25KM for a paramotor
- Do not fly directly behind another paraglder/ paramotor
- Do not take risks to yourself or to the general public
- Do not rush your take off
- Do not be pressured to fly by your mates
- Do not show off
- Again do not break the rules