Getting Started

Training, legality, and flying safe.

In the US, paramotors don't require a pilot's license. That's also why training matters so much. Here's what you need to know before you buy.

Formal training is the single best investment you'll make.

A paramotor is the lowest-cost entry point into powered aviation, but it still rewards proper instruction. A 7 to 10 day course takes a complete beginner through kiting, launches, landings, and solo flight.

Typical cost

$1,500 – $3,500

USPPA-certified school in the US

Duration

7 – 10 days

From zero to soloing

vs. private pilot

~10× cheaper

$13k–$18k & 60–75 hrs for PPL

Legality by region

Paramotor regulation varies widely. This is a high-level guide — always confirm with your national aviation authority before you fly, especially for international deliveries.

United States

No license required

Paramotors qualify as ultralight vehicles under FAR Part 103. No pilot's license, medical certificate, FAA registration, annual inspection, or mandatory insurance. Training is not legally required but strongly recommended.

Authority: FAA — FAR Part 103

Canada

Training recommended, basic rules

Transport Canada treats PPG as ultralight — no pilot license required for recreational flight, but pilots must follow airspace and operating rules. Many clubs require a proficiency sign-off.

Authority: Transport Canada — CARS 602

United Kingdom

Training strongly advised, no licence

Powered paragliders are permitted without a licence under CAA rules, but BHPA-issued pilot ratings are the practical standard and many landowners require them before allowing launches.

Authority: CAA / BHPA

European Union

Varies by country

Rules differ across member states — France, Germany, and Spain require pilot certificates and registration; others (like Italy and Poland) are lighter-touch. Check your national aviation authority before buying.

Authority: National aviation authority

Australia

License via SAFA / ASRA

Australia requires certification via SAFA (Sport Aviation Federation) or ASRA. Expect ~15 days of training and a practical sign-off before flying solo.

Authority: SAFA / ASRA

Elsewhere

Always check local aviation authority

If your country isn't listed, your national civil aviation authority is the definitive source. Local paramotor clubs and Facebook groups are the fastest way to find out what regulations apply in practice.

Authority: Your national aviation authority

Safety essentials

A few non-negotiables every OpenPPG pilot should internalize before their first flight.

Take formal training

Buying a paramotor before learning to fly one is like buying a motorcycle before your first lesson. Find a USPPA or BHPA-rated instructor. 7 to 10 days of training will change your risk profile more than any piece of gear.

Fly with a reserve parachute

A side-mounted reserve is standard on modern harnesses. The Angel SQ V2 fits the SP140 Dudek harness and is sized to your all-up weight. Skip the reserve to save weight and you're betting against physics.

Respect the weather

Paramotor pilots fly in the morning and evening for a reason — midday thermals turn benign air into something your wing won't like. Learn to read forecasts before you rely on your eyes.

Electric reduces some risks

No ground starts, no spinning prop during wing setup, no fuel fire, much less vibration. The SP140 Electric eliminates several of the injury vectors common on gas paramotors — but flying still demands judgement.

Community and learning

The fastest way to get good is to talk to people who already are. A few of the best places to start.

Questions we didn't answer?

The FAQ goes deeper on training, safety, batteries, and buying. Or email us directly — you'll reach the people who design and build the product.

Browse FAQ Email us