Frequently Asked Questions - Fly Solo - Hang Gliding Lessons


What's better: hangliding or paragliding?

Note: we love do both as a hobby, but prefer hang gliding (our passion) over paragliding for a few major reasons:

  • Hang Gliders can fly in much more wind, making it 1) more likely to FLY on the day you want to fly and 2) SAFER if the wind strengthens. 
  • Hang Gliders can FLY in more turbulent air which is good for 1) strong thermals and 2) saftey.  Hang Gliders do not have the risk of in-air "collapses" like paragliders do.
  • Hang gliders have a better glide-angle than paragliders, meaning they can FLY more distance, see more, and sample more thermals (FUN!).
  • Hang gliders can fly almost as slow as a paragliders,  but also MUCH FASTER
  • Hang gliding feels like FLYING in your dreams!  -controlled by shifting your weight, not pulling on strings...
How long does it take to learn to fly hang gliders?
Students usually finish courses and are competent, licensed, beginner pilots at around 10 training days,
What do I get with a course?

TEN DAYS of training at various Sydney hang gliding sights which includes:

Site introduction and familiarization to sites such as Bald Hill, Stanwell Tops and Hill 60 at Port Kembla. Personalized instruction, around 6 (student depending) tandem flights, 3 days on the training hills, & 10+ hours of theory. Free use of the latest equipment. Supervised SOARING flights. A novice rating accredited by the Hang Gliding Federation of Australia. A solid foundation of core flying skills to build upon.

FUN, and a huge sense of accomplishment.

Why learn with Warren Windsports?
Hours of AIRTIME, use the latest equipment/techniques, personal instruction. Warren Windsports offers HOURS of hands-on airtime. This opportunity exists through ten instructional tandem flights. Tandem instruction is: our specialty, and is an integral component of our training program and essential for the developing pilot. Students more readily absorb and understand flight aspects with an instructor by their side giving crucial feedback at the correct moments.
Do I have to take the lessons consecutively?
No. In fact, most local students prefer to complete a 10 day course, sporadically, over a couple of months. Having this extra time will give you a good chance to learn, absorb, and understand some important concepts (i.e. the weather).
How much does it cost to learn to fly?
$2500 -payable in two instalments of $1250, with the option to not finish the course if you’ve decided it’s not for you.
Will I have a license?
Yes, you’ll receive a license from the Hang Gliding Federation of Australia.
What else will I need to buy or get?
Hang Gliding Membership (HGFA) $150

Hang Gliding Instructional Book $75

How much does a hang glider cost?
-About $2000 for a great second hand glider (have your instructor help you inspect them) and around $4800 for a brand-new glider with custom colors.
What’s the “typical” hang glider pilot like?
All sorts of people fly hang gliders! -I.T. techs, teachers, lawyers, students, surfers, 747 airline captains, landscape artists, doctors….. The common denominator between them all is that they all “WANT TO FLY”.
Do you need a big car to carry a hang glider?
No, any car can do the job. Hang gliders are not heavy and just need to be supported along the length of the glider. You’ll only need surf racks and a front-bumper support rack.