A powered paraglider is a type of aircraft characterized by a paragliding wing coupled with a motor. This motor, typically a two-stroke or four-stroke engine, provides thrust, enabling the pilot to take off from flat ground and sustain flight. The pilot is typically seated in a harness suspended below the wing, with the motor and propeller mounted on a frame worn on the pilot’s back. This apparatus facilitates controlled flight through manipulation of brake lines attached to the trailing edge of the paragliding wing.
The appeal of this form of aviation lies in its portability and relative accessibility. Compared to other forms of powered flight, a powered paraglider requires minimal infrastructure; a flat, open area is generally sufficient for takeoff and landing. The equipment is relatively lightweight and can be transported in a car or van. Furthermore, the relatively low cost of entry compared to other aircraft makes powered paragliding an attractive option for aviation enthusiasts. Its development stems from efforts to create a lightweight and affordable means of personal flight, building upon the established principles of paragliding with the addition of motorized propulsion.
