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Introductory lesson $100.00 for a 2 to 3 hour ground handling and first flight introduction to paragliding.
Single full-day lesson (per person) $150.00 (individual) $125.00 (groups of 2) $100.00 (groups of 3-4) for a full day (typically 6-8 hours) of training appropriate to the students current proficiency.
Instruction to USHGA P2 rating 1500.00 All previous tuition applies to the fee. This can require 8 to 12 flying days or more depending on weather conditions and student progress. You do not have to pay the full amount up front. See the FAQ page. 
Site guide for rated pilots with their own gear. Recommended for pilots working on P3, P4, visiting pilots $100.00 per day for one on one instruction and guide support.  If you decide to have this service along with other pilots seeking the same this fee will be reduced. This fee can also be reduced if we have previous plans fly and we're not working with one pilot. This fee is to cover our expenses. We will help you determine the best flying sites based on your skills, the weather conditions, and our knowledge of local flying. We take you to the site, give you a site briefing, and help with any coaching or assistance you request.  A great way to save time hunting for and guessing at the best flying site for the day!
Advanced kiting $80.00 per day. You will be coached by Micky Sponaugle, one of the most talented pilots in the world in the art of "Ground Handling" that we have witnessed.  Micky will teach you a multi-riser technique of kiting in which, when mastered, you will feel one with the wing while kiting. This is recommended for all P2 level and above pilots that desire to perfect their kiting/launching skills and to gain the skills and confidence to launch at the most demanding sites and in demanding conditions. An "Advanced Kiting" lesson should be especially considered before flying a coastal or other site where you might be launching and landing in strong (+15mph) conditions. 
Notes Fly West Virginia is flexible in helping you learn to fly a paraglider. Gives us a call and together we can determine the best arrangements for your schedule and training needs.
During your training, we will provide you with a paraglider, harness, helmet, and radio for in-flight instruction. You should bring a good pair of ankle supporting shoes or boots and clothes appropriate for hiking in the current weather conditions. Please note that many sites are at altitude where the weather will be cooler than you might expect. Be sure to bring some food and beverages and be aware that West Virginia rest rooms are often of the open-air variety. Also bring: long pants, sunglasses, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat,  gloves, water, plenty of good attitude and patience and don't forget cash or checkbook. (We don't currently accept credit cards) Also, please inform us ASAP it the event that you need to cancel a lesson so we can make other plans. We currently do not require an advance deposit and we would like to keep it that way so please be considerate in informing us as early as possible in the event of cancellations.

 

How will a typical day progress? Try to contact us as early as possible to schedule a time to begin your lessons. Weekends fill up fast but some the weekdays are generally open. Call us the evening before (or two evenings before) the first scheduled training day to confirm the forecast and to firm up the plans.  At this point we will have determined the best flying locations for the day based on current weather conditions and the skill level of the students. If you are driving in early be sure to call as it may save you driving time to meet at the training site. Upon arrival at the flying site, one or more wind socks will be placed and the instructor will discuss the site conditions, the weather conditions, and flying strategies for the day. Be prepared to observe the weather conditions. Waiting for the right conditions at the top of the hill and understanding how the conditions can affect flying is all part of the training. Training will include: learning about the paraglider and the harness, learning how to handle the glider on the ground, learning how to pull the glider up and begin kiting the wing, learning how to launch, steer, and land the glider. Additionally, you will learn the limitations of a paraglider and learn how to make good judgments about if the conditions are right for attempting a launch. At Fly West Virginia we love to fly paragliders. We fly as often as we can - safely. As you begin flying, take your time and progress at your natural pace. We want to enjoy your training and your flying and we want you to learn to be safe. Happy Flying!