Q: What is a Powered Parachute?
A: Powered parachute is a flexible winged,
aerial recreational vehicle.
(See Picture)
It combines an engine with a flexible parachute wing technology
similar to that used by sport parachutists. The parachute, unlike the rigid
structures of airplanes or ultralights, is made of Nylon fabric with
Spectra suspension lines. The forward motion of the vehicle forces air into
the multiple ‘cells’ along the wing’s leading edge, pressurizing it and
holding its precisely calculated airfoil shape.
The airframe is
suspended below the wing by multiple Spectra lines. The airframe supports
the pilot, the engine, the propeller, and the controls. It rides on its
three wheels when on the ground.
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Q: Do I Need A Pilot's License?
A: No, you do not need a general aviation Pilot's License, if you are
flying a single seat Powered Parachute that fits within FAA Part 103. If,
however, you are flying any 2 place Powered Parachute, you are then required
to conduct instructional flights under you instructor's exemption or hold
your own exemption under 6080. This is not a pilot's license, it allows you
to fly under an exemption to FAA
Part 103.
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Q: What Makes The Powered Parachute So Stable?
A: The pendulum effect (pilot and airframe suspended by an airfoil)
provides self-compensating stability.
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Q: What Speed Does It Fly?
A: The Powered Parachute flies at a constant 26mph through the air.
The ground speed is determined by the speed of the wind relative to the
flight direction.
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Q: How Does The Parachute
Deploy?
A: Simply lay the parachute out behind the airframe and start the
engine. As the pilot and aircraft start rolling forward for takeoff, the
parachute will kite overhead. Upon reaching 26mph, the parachute will lift
the pilot and aircraft up into the sky.
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Q: What happens if the engine quits?
A: In the event of an engine out condition, the powered parachute
continues to glide forward at 26 to 30 mph with descent speed of about 7
mph. Directional steering is controlled through the canopy, therefore, not
dependent on the engine power. The pilot steers the very same way whether
the engine is running or not.
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Q: What are
the maximum wind conditions to fly an aircraft of this type?
A: Non-gusting winds of less than 10 mph are recommended for beginner
pilots to have the most fun. Wind conditions for recreational flying should
not exceed 15 mph. Inexperienced pilots should consult their instructor.
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Q: How does the
powered parachute respond in gusty wind conditions?
A:
In gusty winds, the vehicle will exhibit some
rocking motion while the airfoil adjusts to the gusts. This adjustment does
not require pilot correction and is a result of the pendulum effect.
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Q: Can the powered
parachute be flown in the rain?
A: The
powered parachute is a recreational flying vehicle and should not be flown
in any adverse weather conditions, including rain, snow, hail, poor
visibility, high or turbulent wind conditions.
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Q:
What are the basic flight controls?
A: The throttle controls altitude, more power makes you climb and
less makes you descend. Steering is done with your feet. Pushing the right
bar to turn right and pushing the left bar to turn left.
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Q: How Is The Powered Parachute Transported?
A: All that is required is a small trailer. You can choose one to
suit your specific needs.
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Q: Is this a safe sport?
A: Yes. In fact, it is one of the safest forms of recreational flying
available today. Because of the nature of the vehicle, it is stall
resistant, and cannot be rolled or looped. Unlike other recreational
vehicles, this one requires training before you can use it and safety is
part of the training.
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Q: How much room do I need to take off and land?
A: It is recommended that you have an open field with 500 to 600 feet
clear to fly from, but it only takes 150 to 200 feet to take off. Landing
requires generally less than 100 feet. This is all relative to the weather
and gross vehicle weight.
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Q: This is a two seat vehicle. Can I take anyone
I want to fly with me?
A: In order to legally take someone else with you on a flight, you
must become a Basic Flight Instructor (BFI). This only requires that you
complete the initial training under a qualified instructor, accumulate 25 hours of solo flight time and
then get back with an Advanced Flight Instructor (AFI) for an additional 10 hours of training. You must then pass two written exams and a check
ride to qualify as a BFI. Once you are a qualified BFI, you may fly and
train other people.
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Q: How long can I fly on one tank of gas?
A: Although actual flight times will
depend on the size, model of chute, flying conditions, pilot weight and
atmospheric conditions the typical time ranges from 60 minutes to 3 1/2
hours.
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Q: Can you take off by yourself?
A: Yes, no external help is required.
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Q: What is the altitude capability?
A: The vehicle's altitude capability will vary according to
atmospheric conditions, gross weight and proper engine adjustment. Altitudes
of 20,000+ feet have been attained, but most pilots enjoy flying at 1000
feet above the ground or lower.
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Q: What is the maximum weight you can carry?
A: Maximum recommended pilot weight is variable, depending on the
type of powered parachute you are flying. Weights up to 565 pounds by some
manufacturers can be carried.
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Q: What is the wing made of?
A: The wing is a "Ram-Air" parachute made of rip stop nylon, which is
specially treated to resist ultraviolet rays. The canopy has the
construction to withstand the high shock loads of free fall skydiving, a
stress far beyond powered parachute loads. With proper care the canopy
should give years and years of service.
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Q: Can the powered parachute be flown year
round?
A: Yes. If there is snow or ice you can put skis on your aircraft.
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