SWISS PARAGLIDING INTERLAKEN
Paragliding Requirements – Is Paragliding Right for You?
PARAGLIDING INTERLAKEN
Can anyone go paragliding?
In general, almost anyone can go on a tandem paragliding flight. The most important requirements are your weight, being in normal physical condition, and the current weather conditions. You don’t need any prior experience—your pilot will handle all the controls.
Many guests are unsure whether they meet the requirements. In practice, however, most are able to fly without any problems. What matters is not athletic ability, but the ability to run a few steps during takeoff and follow the pilot’s instructions.
Each flight is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Our pilots decide on-site whether the conditions and requirements for a safe flight are met.
What role does weight play in paragliding?
Weight is one of the most important factors in paragliding, as it directly affects safety and flight performance. It is not just weight alone that matters, but always the ratio of weight to height.
For tandem paragliding in Interlaken, the typical weight range Interlaken generally between about 30 kg and 90 kg. In good conditions, higher weights are also possible—up to about 100 kg, provided the participant is at least approximately 1.80 m tall.
For very light passengers, the feasibility of a flight depends heavily on the time of day and weather conditions. Especially in the summer, flights for light passengers are usually possible in the morning until around 10:30 a.m., as the air is calmer then.
Our pilots assess each situation individually on-site and determine, based on weight, height, and current conditions, whether a safe flight can be conducted.
What is the maximum weight limit for tandem paragliding?
For tandem paragliding in Interlaken, the standard maximum weight for passengers is 90 kg, depending on height and weather conditions.
For individuals who are at least 180 cm tall, weights of up to 100 kg are possible under suitable conditions. However, this must be discussed with us in advance.
For passengers weighing more than 90 kg, wind conditions at the launch site are particularly important. For this reason, the first two and last two flight times of the day are generally not suitable. In winter, stricter weight limits apply—sometimes as low as 80 kg—especially in the afternoon.
A lighter pilot does not automatically mean a higher passenger weight. Our pilots must have sufficient strength and stability during takeoff to be able to safely support the passenger if necessary.
For our special " Lady Pilot" flight with a female pilot, the maximum passenger weight is 70 kg.
The key factors are always the ratio of height to weight and the current flying conditions. Our pilots assess on a case-by-case basis whether a safe tandem flight is possible.
Is there a minimum weight requirement for paragliding?
The recommended minimum passenger weight for tandem paragliding in Interlaken is generally around 30 kg. Lighter passengers may also be able to fly under suitable weather conditions, subject to individual assessment by our pilots.
Lighter passengers may also be able to fly, depending on conditions; however, this depends heavily on the time of day, wind, and season. Especially in the summer, flights with very light passengers are usually possible in the morning until around 10:30 a.m., as the air is calmer then.
In general, children can fly starting at around age 7, provided they meet the physical requirements. Here, too, each flight is assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure maximum safety.For more information on minimum age, weight, and the process, visit our page on paragliding with children.
What role do fitness and health play in paragliding?
You don't need to be particularly athletic to go on a tandem paragliding flight. What's more important is being in normal physical condition and being able to run a few steps during takeoff.
The launch is done together with the pilot and takes only a few seconds. After that, you’ll be comfortably seated in your harness and can relax and enjoy the flight. The pilot is in control throughout the entire flight.
Landing is also easy and controlled. In most cases, it’s enough to take a few steps forward or simply stand there.
When it comes to health-related issues, the following applies: People with heart conditions should consult a doctor beforehand. Tandem paragliding is generally possible up to around the third month of pregnancy. After that, we recommend avoiding paragliding flights. Passengers with leg prostheses cannot participate in tandem paragliding flights, while artificial joints usually pose no problem—provided a doctor gives their approval.
If you're unsure whether you're physically fit enough, feel free to contact us at any time. We'll work with you to determine whether flying is a good idea and safe for you.
Who decides whether a flight is possible?
Whether a paragliding flight can take place always depends on the current conditions and your individual circumstances. The final decision therefore rests with the pilot on site.
Weather, wind, weight, height, and the overall conditions at the launch site all play a role. Even if all the basic requirements are met, a flight may need to be adjusted or postponed at short notice if conditions change.
This decision is always made with safety in mind. Our pilots are trained and experienced, and they make their assessments based on the current situation—not on fixed schedules.
For you, this means: You can rest assured that a flight will only take place if all the conditions are right.
Do you meet the requirements for paragliding?
Most guests easily meet the requirements for paragliding. The key factors are an appropriate weight-to-height ratio, normal physical condition, and suitable weather conditions.
Many uncertainties can be cleared up quickly. If you're not sure whether a flight is an option for you, we’d be happy to advise you personally and give you an honest assessment.
This way, you can be sure that your experience will not only be unforgettable, but also safe and well-organized.