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Paramotor
/ Motorized Paraglider (MPG) FAQ's |
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Is a license required to fly an MPG?
In Malaysia, license
is required, however, training is highly
recommended.
Can
an MPG be flown in the Kuala Lumpur city
area?
There are many areas
where flying is restricted both in cities
and near airports. However, permission (a
NOTAM) can be obtained from the Malaysian
Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) on a
case-by-case basis for specific events as
required. There are many areas around KL
and Malaysia, however, where MPG's can be
safely and legally flown.
How
long does it take to learn to fly?
For a complete novice,
it takes around 5 to 10 days to achieve
complete freedom on a paramotor. These training
days typically consist of controlling the
wing on the ground and short paraglider
flights on a hill. After this, a student
will move on to radio-instructed paramotor
flights. In around 4-5 days, it is possible
to finish a basic course. Subsequently,
advanced training courses are highly recommended.
What
is the maximum wind speed a paramotor can
fly in?
At the maximum speed
of the paraglider wing. Their speeds are
between 20 km/h = minimum speed) and 45
to 50 km/h, this depends on the type of
wing. The average speed is around 40 km/h.
Contrary to what might be thought, a more
powerful engine will not make for a faster
ride, but it will offer a quicker climb
to altitude. No matter which engine is used,
the horizontal air speed will always be
the same if using the same wing.
How
high can they fly?
MPG's have a safe
maximum altitude of about 10,000' (300m).
However, the most fun and entertaining flying
is "low and slow"; MPG's can be
flown safely only a few meters above the
ground though they are most often flown
at an altitude of about 30-100 meters for
the best view.
What
is the flying range of a paramotor?
This depends essentially
on the weight of the pilot, the performance
of the chosen wing, and of course on the
quantity of fuel on board. A "typical"
paramotor, that is to say one using a canopy
of reasonable performance, with a flier
whose weight is in a reasonable range for
the machine, will use between 3 to 4 litres
of fuel per hour on average, giving around
1h30 range with a 5-litre fuel tank, twice
that with a 10-litre tank.
Can
an MPG carry a passenger?
An MPG can be fitted
with a tandem harness allowing a pilot to
fly with a passenger. Total take-off weight
restrictions apply depending on canopy size
and engine power.
What
happens if the engine stops?
Paraglider wings perform
much the same as a normal parachute. In
the engine stops or it runs out of petrol,
the MPG will glide safely to the ground.
Which
type of fuel does it use?
Any car petrol is
suitable, used in a mixture with synthetic
2-stroke oil beginning at 4% for a new motor,
then 3%, finally 2% mixture (= 1/25, 1/33,
and then 1/50). It is very important to
add synthetic oil or mineral oil at 4% (1/25)
in normal use to avoid overheating or seizing
problems. There is almost no other maintenance
required to these motors, which are extremely
robust.
How
much does a paramotor weight?
Paramotors range from
16 kg, up to a maximum of around 35kg. Weight
is very critical as a too heavy paramotor
is very difficult for ground handling and
takeoff. Once in the air, the combined weight
of paramotor an pilot, is suspended by the
wing - just like sitting in an armchair!
Although minimum weight is important, a
paramotor must have enough power for the
pilot and aircraft. Around 4 kg for every
5 litres of fuel must be added to calculate
the overall takeoff weight.
Which
type of paragliding canopy can be used with
a paramotor?
Any paraglider designed
and constructed for foot launching can be
used, although the best are those modified
specifically for paramotoring. Ozone wings
offer several specialized wings including
the "Vibe" with special paramotor
risers.
Is
it possible to take off from anywhere?
Yes, technically,
it is possible to take off from almost anywhere,
as long as conditions are right; taking
off into the wind, not set up in the wind
shadow of a mountain, building or similar.
For utmost safety, always fly in good weather
conditions. A football pitch size field
is an example of a suitable paramotor take-off
area. Usually, it is not legally permissible
to take-off "just anywhere"; notably
too close to towns, and of course near airfields
or in restricted areas. Local rules and
airspace restrictions around the flying
area must be checked. Every country has
different air laws; and while the general
guidelines are the same worldwide, local
details may differ. |
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03-22848928
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