You do not need any training to paraglide for the first time: on a tandem flight an experienced pilot controls the wing while you sit in front and enjoy the view. Bring trainers, light comfortable clothes, sunglasses and a bottle of water. Just before take-off your pilot gives you a short briefing; what you need to do at take-off and landing comes down to a few simple steps.
What should I wear?
- Trainers: you take a few running steps at take-off, so wear lace-up sports shoes with a good grip. Flip-flops, sandals and heels are not suitable.
- Light, flexible clothes: anything comfortable that lets you move freely.
- In winter: bring a jacket or a thick jumper, as it is cooler higher up.
What should I bring?
- Sunglasses (they make the flight much more comfortable, especially in summer)
- A bottle of water
- Sun cream and a hat
If you want to take anything with you on the flight, tell your pilot beforehand. Ulusky provides the helmet, harness and all other flight equipment.
How does the day go?
- Hotel pick-up: our driver collects you from your hotel at the agreed time. The transfer is included.
- Arrival at the take-off: Ulusky's take-off point is on a slope at 700 metres, looking down on Alanya and Cleopatra Beach.
- Briefing: your pilot explains exactly what to do at take-off and landing.
- Equipment: your harness and helmet are put on and the pilot checks all the connections.
- Take-off and flight: the flight lasts about 10-20 minutes, depending on the weather.
- Landing and return: after landing our driver takes you wherever you like.
What does the briefing cover?
The briefing is short but important. Your pilot explains how to run at take-off, how to sit in the air and how to hold your legs for landing. These are simple steps. This is also the moment to tell your pilot how you feel, about any health issues and what kind of flight you want: a calm scenic flight or something livelier.
Listening carefully to the briefing and following your pilot's instructions throughout the flight are the two most important things you do as a passenger.
How does the take-off work?
Your pilot lays the wing out facing the wind. When your pilot says so, you run a few steps down the slope together; as the wing fills with air and lifts you, your feet leave the ground. During take-off, keep running and do not try to sit down; your pilot will tell you when to sit. Once in the air you settle into the harness and look down on the Mediterranean, the Taurus Mountains and Alanya Castle.
How does the landing work?
Your pilot warns you as you come in to land. Usually all you do is stretch your legs forward and take a few steps when you touch the ground. Your pilot controls the speed and the approach. After landing your harness comes off and that is it.
What if I get scared?
Feeling nervous before a first flight is completely normal. Your pilot talks to you throughout; just say if you would like a calmer flight. Every Ulusky pilot is certified, has more than 1,000 flights and flew 10-20 test flights before joining the team. Every tandem flight carries a reserve parachute.
Could a health condition stop me flying?
If you have epilepsy or another condition that could be a risk, contact us before you book. For other health questions, we suggest checking with your doctor before the flight and telling your pilot. Passengers should weigh roughly 15 to 120 kg; suitability is confirmed with the pilot.
Common first-flight mistakes
- Coming in flip-flops or sandals. You need lace-up shoes to run at take-off.
- Stopping during the take-off run or trying to sit down too early. Your pilot tells you when to sit.
- Not telling the pilot about a health condition.
- Giving an incomplete or wrong weight when booking.
- Leaving the flight to the last day of the holiday. If the weather is not right, there is no time to make up for it.
Can I get photos of my flight?
Photos and video are not included in the price and are booked separately; mention it when you book. If you want to take your own phone or camera, ask your pilot first. The pilot decides how anything that could fall is secured.
Can I choose the style of flight?
Yes. Tell your pilot at the briefing whether you would like a calm scenic flight or a livelier one. For a first flight, most people are more comfortable starting calm. If you change your mind in the air, just tell your pilot. In the end, the conditions on the day decide how the flight goes.
Frequently asked questions
I have never flown. Do I need training?
No. You fly as a passenger on a tandem flight; the short briefing before take-off is enough.
I wear glasses. Can I fly?
Yes. Show your glasses to your pilot before take-off and you will work out together how to keep them secure during the flight.
How long is the flight?
About 10-20 minutes, depending on the weather.
From what age can you fly?
From the age of 5. We have also flown guests in their 80s.
If you have more questions, see our FAQ or our prices page. Ready? Book your flight or message us on WhatsApp.
