Paragliding glossary

The speed of the glider relative to the surrounding air.

A deformation in which part of the inflated canopy folds or loses its flying shape.

A flight along a route beyond the immediate area of the launch site.

Horizontal distance travelled per unit of height lost in a glide.

Practising control of the wing while staying on the ground.

The speed at which the pilot moves over the ground.

The final part of a flight in which the pilot returns to the ground.

Soaring in air that wind pushes upwards along a slope.

Using rising air to maintain or gain height without engine power.

A state in which excessive angle of attack separates the airflow and disrupts the wing’s normal lift.

The transition from the ground into flight.