Tandem paragliding: how a flight actually works
Tandem means flying two-up: you in the front harness, your pilot behind, in charge of the flight. Learning to paraglide solo takes years; a tandem lets you experience the flight on your first day, with no preparation. Here is how the whole thing unfolds.
The equipment
Tandem flights use a larger wing designed to carry two people. You and your pilot wear separate harnesses; yours settles into a comfortable seated position once airborne. The kit always includes a reserve parachute, and the wing, harnesses and connections are checked by the pilot before every flight. Both of you wear helmets.
Take-off: a few running steps
At the launch area your pilot gives you a short briefing: when to run, when to stop. As the wing fills with air you run a few steps together, and the ground simply falls away — the moment most guests expect to be the hardest turns out to be the easiest. A few seconds after take-off you sit back into the harness and settle in.
In the air
Most of the flight is a calm glide, with the Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley and the coastline below you. If you would like a livelier ride, your pilot can — conditions permitting — fly manoeuvres such as spirals; if you prefer to keep it calm, just say so. You can talk with your pilot throughout the flight.
Landing: on the beach, on your feet
You land on the Ölüdeniz beach strip. The pilot manages the descent; your only job is to stretch your legs forward when asked. The landing usually ends in a few soft walking steps. The photos and video taken during your flight are handed over after landing.
Who can fly?
No experience is required. Weight and age limits apply — check the before-you-fly section and confirm your situation on WhatsApp before booking.