Organisation profile

Poupet Vol Libre

• School

Poupet Vol Libre teaches around Poupet near Saint-Thiébaud. The four-day beginner Découverte course moves from a gentle training slope to first solo flights with radio assistance. The school requires a very good command of French to understand instructions; its website says instructors do not speak foreign languages. Further supervised training is needed to reach independence.

The five-day Initiation pilotage programme adds a flying day to the four-day format. Theory covers flight planning, aerodynamics, aerology and equipment adjustment. Depending on ability and weather, initial longer or thermal flights may be added. The page specifies up to eight students in spring and September, and seven in peak season, with earlier starts during summer heat. Instructors are dedicated to the group during teaching and do not simultaneously handle tandem experiences.

The school provides a wing, protective harness, helmet, radio and a reserve for high flights, plus a training record and theory handbook. School vehicles carry participants to training slopes and launch sites. For further training after the introductory course or a return after a break, the school recommends Progression.