Paragliding in Interlaken: How safe is a tandem paragliding flight really?
Many people who are thinking about a tandem flight in Switzerland for the first time ask themselves a key question: how safe is a tandem paragliding flight? This question is absolutely justified – after all, you are embarking on an adventure in the air when paragliding. The good news first: paragliding is considered very safe in Switzerland, especially if you fly with professional, licensed providers, as is the case with Paragliding Interlaken, the most experienced tandem flight company in Switzerland.
Safety for over 35 years – Paragliding Interlaken
Paragliding Interlaken has been operating since 1990, making it the oldest tandem flight company in Switzerland. In over three decades of flying experience, the company has not recorded a single serious accident, which is impressive proof of the comprehensive safety concept that is practiced here on a daily basis. Minor incidents, such as a misstep during take-off, can occur during this experience, but are extremely rare and mostly harmless and can also happen during normal sporting leisure activities.
How dangerous is paragliding in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, paragliding is strictly regulated and every tandem pilot must have an SHV(Swiss Hang Gliding Association) license, which requires extensive flying experience. In addition, the equipment is subject to strict test criteria and all Paragliding Interlaken pilots undergo regular safety training and instruction.
Paragliding is therefore considered a very safe leisure activity, especially if it is only carried out under optimal conditions, as is the case with Paragliding Interlaken. Paragliding only takes place in good weather and stable wind conditions. The pilot checks the equipment before each flight and provides the passenger with a detailed briefing on the procedure, how to behave at take-off, during the flight and on landing.
What is the risk of a paragliding tandem flight?
Tandem flights with our experienced pilots are extremely low-risk. Paragliding Interlaken’s pilots have many years of flying experience. Thomas Ulrich, for example, is a paragliding tandem pilot who has been flying for over 35 years. Many of our pilots are even very successful competition pilots and take part in events such as the Red Bull X-Alps.
Before every flight, the equipment, wind and weather are carefully checked. The risk is therefore a fraction of that associated with other sports and is significantly lower than skiing or cycling, for example.
Is paragliding safer than skydiving?
Paragliding and skydiving are two different flying experiences, both with their own appeal and safety profile. In paragliding, you take off from a gently sloping hillside, completely without an engine or airplane, and glide through the air at low speed. There is no free fall and no high speeds. Skydiving involves jumping from a height of around 4000 meters and experiencing 45 seconds of free fall at speeds of up to 200 km/h.
Both activities are safe with experienced providers and Paragliding Interlaken only works with providers who guarantee a high standard of safety( you can find the various skydive offers here ).
How is safety guaranteed when paragliding?
Safety at Paragliding Interlaken is based on four pillars
- Pilot experience: All pilots at Paragliding Interlaken are licensed by the SHV and have extensive experience.
- Equipment: Only the most modern, tested flying equipment is used, which must be checked regularly. Every pilot carries a reserve parachute.
- Weather assessment: Flying only takes place in suitable conditions and these are constantly reassessed.
- Standardized procedures: take-off and landing procedures, checklists and briefings are clearly defined and guarantee a safe process.
What safety precautions are in place at Paragliding Interlaken?
At Paragliding Interlaken, safety has always been our top priority. Here are some specific examples:
- Regular equipment checks: All gliders, harnesses and helmets are checked at regular intervals and replaced if necessary.
- Detailed safety checks: Before every flight, the pilot checks all harnesses, carabiners and lines. The wind and weather conditions are also meticulously assessed.
- Experienced pilots: All our pilots have been flying for many years and have a lot of experience.
- Transparent communication: All guests receive a clear briefing before the flight with information on take-off, flight and landing.
- Training & further education: All pilots regularly take part in internal training and safety courses.
Year-round flying with safety and comfort
Paragliding Interlaken offers tandem flights all year round – each season has its own special charm:
- Spring: The perfect mix of snow-capped peaks and blossoming valleys.
- Summer: thermals for longer flights, warm temperatures and clear views of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, as well as the mountain landscape of the Jungfrau region.
- Autumn: colorful forests and particularly clear air. Simply enjoy the colorful Jungfrau region.
- Winter: The magic of snow-covered mountains: admire Switzerland from above in winter.
Regardless of the season, safety always comes first. If the weather or wind is not right, we don’t fly. Better safe than risky – that is Paragliding Interlaken’s motto. In the event that it is not possible to fly, we will try to rebook the flight or refund the guest’s money.
Conclusion: Paragliding is safe, especially with the professionals from Paragliding Interlaken
Anyone wondering: How dangerous is paragliding? can rest assured. With an experienced provider like Paragliding Interlaken, paragliding in Switzerland is one of the safest aerial activities you can experience. With over 35 years of experience, SHV-licensed pilots, modern equipment and an uncompromising safety concept, you can fully enjoy your adventure in the Jungfrau region with maximum views and minimum risk.
So if you fancy an unforgettable experience in the air, book your flight with Paragliding Interlaken – safe, professional and spectacular!