Learned to fly a Paramotor - A giant fan on my back
It all started with a YouTube rabbit hole. I found a YouTuber (Tucker Gott) flying above the clouds on a paramotor in a video he called Drinking Coffee and Getting High. The view was UNREAL. My brain? “I need to do this.” And just like that, flying a paramotor shot to the top of my bucket list.
The PLAN takes off
A quick google search led me to Sky Adventure Aviation Club in Dubai. And before I overthink it, I signed up to their paramotor training. Luckily, I already had a valid aviation medical certificate from my Light Sports Aircraft training (thanks, past me), so I signed up without any delays.
Started paramotor ground school. It was sweaty
Training began on October 5 and wrapped up by November 24. The course is 20 hours. The first five hours were spent on the ground, learning wing handling, running back and forth trying to control a massive wing that has no intention of listening to you. After my first class, I walked out drenched.
I also spent an hour in a “simulator.” which is metal rig with a harness, seat, and lines to mimic the wing’s setup. It’s a decent way to practice.
Losing my first solo flight to gravity
After 5 hours of ground school my first solo didn’t go as planned. The failed take off is documented on YouTube for your viewing pleasure (Check below for my flying videos)
I spent the remaining 15 hours in the air. I learned lines handling, emergency landings, etc. and on my final session when I had to do a precision emergency landing. License: unlocked! (20 hours later)
Now, I try to fly every other week. Who knew strapping a giant fan to your back could be so rewarding? Thanks Tucker.
Paramotor learning in Dubai summary
First of all, here's my YouTube playlist flying paramotors
20 hours course
costs ~13,000 AED
needs aviation medical certificate and security clearance (additional 1,000 AED)
less than 2 months (relaxed schedule)
you get a proper UAE GCAA pilot license (General Civil Aviation)
do it