Hang gliding ranks amongst some of the top air sports in the world today. Instead of climbing the skies in a hot air balloon or jumping out of a plane with a parachute, hang gliders prefer being suspended from a large wing in a harness.

When hang gliding was originally invented, the gliders initially available only allowed pilots to navigate low altitudes and short distances. Changes in technology have given hang gliders the chance to operate their air crafts in much the same way as an airplane or balloon, soaring high into the sky and traveling cross-country length distances.

Hang Gliding History

Hang gliding is believed to have existed in as early as 4^th and 5^th century China. Of course, in these early times, people did not have a firm grasp or understanding on the basics behind the making of a successful flight – they were merely attempting to imitate the wings of a bird. Sadly, there were many injuries and deaths as experimenters attempted to jump from cliffs in hang gliders that weren’t quite suited for the tasks.

Later on, in the late 1800’s, a scientist known as Otto Lilienthal began his own experiments. He carefully studied the gliders created over history and made carefully documented changes until he had crafted a flying machine that is today known as the hang glider. His work has had a significant impact on the development aviation as a whole.

Training and Costs

Anyone interested in hang gliding will have to undergo extensive training. Current hang gliders are comprised of sturdy aluminum of composite frames with some sort of fabric wing. Pilots have to learn to use their own body weight in order to control the glider in strong and ever-changing thermal and wind currents. In the early days of hang gliding, education was based on trial and error, but today formal training is available.

Pilots participating in hang gliding excursions are encouraged to incorporate a number of safety features. Everyone wears a helmet and carries basic first aid equipment and survival gear. Hang gliders also wear a small parachute incase of emergencies.

Hang gliding can be an expensive sport. The cost of a hang glider alone can range anywhere from $5,000 to over $14,000 depending on the type of glider and your level of skill. Additional gear, including the harness, parachute, and communication devices can add an additional $1,800 to $4,500 to your tab. Lessons, depending on the school you attend and the number you purchase, can range from $400 to $1,500 and up.

Breathtaking Hang Gliding Locations

Once you’re trained and ready to go, however, the sky is the limit when it comes to the amazing places you can visit and see from your hang glider. Some of our favorite hang gliding spots can be found in both remote and popular destinations around the globe.

Sao Conrado, Rio

The ocean and hilltops surrounding Sao Conrado beach are astounding when viewed from above. It seems unreal to be floating freely so high above the Gavea Gulf, watching the people, cars, and waves below all at once.

Mona Vale Beach, Australia

Imagine looking down from the sky at the pristine blue waters and lush greenery that is Mont Vale, Australia. There is something to be said for the ability to view this kind of scenery in the open air instead of from an airplane. The hills of Mona Vale are an incredibly popular destination for Australian hang gliders.

Stanwell Park, Australia

Stanwell Park, Australia, is yet another popular destination for hang gliders. Experienced gliders can launch from the hills in the distance and, if they maintain correct control of their gliders, will safely land on the beach and the end of their flight.

Interlakken, Switzerland

Imagine viewing the glorious Swiss Alps, not by train or plane, but by hang glider. Gaining a close-up view of the incredible Swiss landscape is, for most, a once in a lifetime opportunity. Amazingly enough, these tandem gliders just finished doing a loop in the air!

Lake Michigan, United States

The Great Lakes strike most visitors as awesome due to their sheer size, but the opportunity to view the vast waters from above is like no other. A popular hang gliding launch spot is from the park at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Hang gliding is the perfect pastime for outdoor enthusiasts from all walks of life. Almost everywhere you go you will encounter the opportunity to enjoy a hang gliding excursion. With the ability to hang glide in tandem (with another person with you), the sport is fun for families as well.

Just make sure that the local regulations in the area you are visiting allow for hang gliding, and find out whether or not there are designated areas for the sport. Other than that, the sky is the limit – literally!

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