On August 12th, 2026, we drove to Barriosuso and hiked up the Peña Valdosa to witness the total solar eclipse. We flew back down during the sunset, while the last moments of the eclipse was still visible, which was a surreal experience.
00:05:16 Totality starts
00:07:05 Totality ends
In this episode, adventurer and filmmaker Benjamin Kellett returns to the Mayhem by popular demand to share his rather awesome adventurous paragliding journeys across the Himalaya, Karakorum, and Europe in what has become an annual migration. Ben discusses the challenges of high-altitude flying, gear choices, and the evolving landscape of tandem paragliding regulations and a LOT more. Discover insights into character-building expeditions, the impact of weather phenomena like the "Super" El Nino this year, and future plans for exploration. Ben chases the aesthetic of flying better than just about anyone.
What's behind paraglider pilot Chrigel Maurer's winning form? He shares the details of his X-Pyr win 🏆 on the podcast 🎤. Find the full episode on https://xcmag.com/podcasts
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Cross Country is the world’s international free flying magazine. Subscribers enjoy articles on new flying techniques, inspiring stories from across the world and deep dives into micro-meteorology, the latest equipment advances – and much more. As well as receiving eight premium quality issues, subscribers can access six Masterclass coaching sessions and discounts on merchandise, books, and flying accessories. Cross Country is a flying trip found nowhere else.
More info: https://xcmag.com
Not sure which packing method or bag is best for your Niviuk wing? In this complete packing guide, we go through the different Niviuk bags, packing methods and configurations available across our range: from everyday fast packing to more compact solutions for specific wings and uses.
Discover:
⚬ The different Niviuk packing bags
⚬ Which bags work best with different wings
⚬ The main packing methods step by step
⚬ When and why to use each option
⚬ Tips to make packing easier, faster and more practical
The methods shown in this video are recommendations and practical tips from Niviuk. There is no single correct way to pack your wing, and each pilot can choose the method that best suits their equipment, preferences and needs. This guide will help you choose the right setup.
📲 Find out more about Niviuk equipment and accessories at https://niviuk.com/en/rucksacks
*VIDEO CHAPTERS*
0:00 Introduction
0:57 NKare bags
2:15 Different NKare packing methods
5:57 ZipNkare and ZipNkare P packing
6:51 Basic covers
7:14 Inner bag packing
7:36 Compress bag packing
8:27 Koli Pro packing
*FOLLOW NIVIUK PARAGLIDERS*
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niviukparagliders/
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Youtube: @NiviukParagliders
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/niviuk-paragliders
Website: https://niviuk.com/
2026 PWC Gemona, Italy - Task 4
Task 4 brought the longest course of the competition so far, with pilots taking on a demanding 97.1 km route that zigzagged between the mountain ranges and across the valley several times. The task combined long ridge runs with multiple flatland crossings, rewarding both efficient gliding and tactical decision-making.
Conditions on the mountains were strong from the start, allowing pilots to climb quickly along the ridges. As the race began, the field spread into two or three distinct groups, each choosing different lines towards the first turnpoint. Significant gaps were already created on the return leg towards take-off, where pilots who had chosen the better lines gained valuable time and altitude.
After climbing above launch, competitors made the first major crossing of the valley, carrying enough height to comfortably reach the opposite foothills. From there, the route followed the ridges towards the second turnpoint, where strong lift allowed pilots to gain altitude with ease before crossing the valley once again towards take-off.
The return to launch became one of the busiest moments of the day. Large numbers of pilots arrived low at the same time, creating a hectic scene as they searched for lift directly in front of take-off. Despite the congestion, the climb worked well enough for most of the leading group to continue onto the next section of the course.
The route then followed the mountain ridge behind take-off to another turnpoint before retracing the same ridge and preparing for yet another valley crossing. Once back on the opposite side, pilots headed towards the penultimate turnpoint, located close to controlled airspace.
This proved to be the most decisive part of the task. The climb before the airspace was weak and unreliable, forcing pilots to make difficult decisions. Those who managed to climb high enough were able to glide safely over the restricted area, while many others either had to take the longer route around it—losing valuable time—or inadvertently entered the airspace and incurred penalties.
After rounding the final turnpoint in the middle of the valley, one last climb was needed before the glide to goal. Rather than committing immediately, many pilots topped up their altitude by soaring a nearby hillside before beginning the final speed section and gliding into goal.
Throughout the day, the mountains provided the strongest lift, with powerful ridge climbs allowing pilots to gain height without prolonged thermalling. The valley crossings, meanwhile, were flown as efficiently as possible, with competitors aiming to minimize time spent searching for lift in the flats before reconnecting with the next mountain range.
The day's victory went to Andy Tallia, adding another impressive World Cup performance following his Superfinal victory earlier this season. Alexia Fischer claimed the women's victory, while the overall competition continues to tighten heading into the remaining tasks.
00:00:00 Waiting for the start
00:03:10 Start of speed section
00:05:13 TP1
00:06:52 Missed the first strong thermal, this is going to be a long one
00:17:27 Crossing the valley
00:19:42 Weak ridge
00:26:10 TP2
00:29:49 Crossing the valley back
00:34:12 Better ridge back to Gemona takeoff
00:39:08 TP3
00:41:17 Not a lot of landings in sight
00:42:03 In the forest below the group
00:48:30 TP4
00:55:29 Hippolyte!
00:57:32 Crossing the valley once again
01:01:38 Trying my best to stay above the restricted airspace (1100m AMSL)
01:04:23 TP5
01:05:28 Final glide
01:05:48 Goal
01:07:21 Landing
Is this one of the most successful paragliders of all time? In this Flybubble review, we talk about the ALPHA 8 Classic and ALPHA 8 DLS, EN A beginner paragliding wings from Advance Paragliders! How is it compared to its predecessor? Who is it for?
Latest info on ALPHA 8, availability and current pricing on the Flybubble website. : https://flybubble.com/search?q=alpha+8
Support Flybubble & Keep the Videos Coming! 🦅
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction
00:56 Alpha 8 as a mid-A classic
01:27 Classic vs DLS
01:42 Ground handling
03:06 Build quality
03:27 Launch behavior
04:31 Flying in turbulence
05:28 Thermal performance
06:09 Speed bar
07:22 Stability & collapse resistance
08:13 Handling & stall behavior
09:31 Safety aspects
10:20 Classic vs DLS comparison
12:39 Final verdict
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“They call it God’s Land…” The state of Uttarakhand in northern India is home to some of the highest and most remote mountains in the Indian Himalaya. It is an area that is rarely flown – and with good reason. A lack of paragliding infrastructure, complex valley systems, strict permit requirements and no medical assistance to speak of work together to create challenges that would send most pilots back to Bir.
When Ben Kellett and Matt Johnston headed here in early 2026 they had a clear objective: to explore the region and, if conditions allowed, to fly Nanda Devi (7,816m). An ambitious aim that would involve meticulous planning, high altitude flying and flying into areas that are rarely, if ever, explored from the air.
The thing that struck photographer and videographer Henry George was just how mentally resilient the pair are when it comes to this kind of flying. “Their ability to fly rough air over remote terrain but still make safe decisions was inspiring to see. It’s essential here, where any rescue would involve a two day wait, and any consequences amplified. Retaining that mental clarity to fly and make good decisions is essential.”
Soaring the Roof of India
Story and photography by Henry George
In Cross Country 267 (Aug/Sept 2026)
#paragliding
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Cross Country is the world’s international free flying magazine. Subscribers enjoy articles on new flying techniques, inspiring stories from across the world and deep dives into micro-meteorology, the latest equipment advances – and much more. As well as receiving eight premium quality issues, subscribers can access six Masterclass coaching sessions and discounts on merchandise, books, and flying accessories. Cross Country is a flying trip found nowhere else.
More info: https://xcmag.com
Come fly with us at the Paragliding World Cup in Gemona, Italy, July 2026. Filmed by Martin Scheel
After six tasks in the foothills of the Italian Alps Baptiste Lambert claimed victory at the first Paragliding World Cup of the season, followed by Martin Jovanoski and Roger Aeschbacher in second and third place, respectively. In the women’s ranking, Alexia Fischer dominated the field in first place, followed by Elisa Deutschmann and Violeta Jimenez in second and third.
It was a near perfect week of World Cup action. Only the first task was cancelled as rain came in. Thereafter pilots faced a series of tasks ranging from 70.25km to 102.13km, offering a mix of technical flying through mountains, along ridge lines and across the flats.
#paragliding
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More journal than magazine, Cross Country aims to keep paraglider, paramotor and hang glider pilots fuelled with inspiration and information. Founded in 1988, and read around the world, Cross Country is respected as independent and authoritative. Cross Country also publishes best-selling technique books.
Find out more at http://www.xcmag.com
Flying with the best competition paraglider pilots in the world at the Paragliding World Cup in Gemona, Italy in July 2026.
After six tasks in the foothills of the Italian Alps Baptiste Lambert claimed victory at the first Paragliding World Cup of the season, followed by Martin Jovanoski and Roger Aeschbacher in second and third place, respectively. In the women’s ranking, Alexia Fischer dominated the field in first place, followed by Elisa Deutschmann and Violeta Jimenez in second and third.
It was a near perfect week of World Cup action. Only the first task was cancelled as rain came in. Thereafter pilots faced a series of tasks ranging from 70.25km to 102.13km, offering a mix of technical flying through mountains, along ridge lines and across the flats.
***
Cross Country is the world’s international free flying magazine. Subscribers enjoy articles on new flying techniques, inspiring stories from across the world and deep dives into micro-meteorology, the latest equipment advances – and much more. As well as receiving eight premium quality issues, subscribers can access six Masterclass coaching sessions and discounts on merchandise, books, and flying accessories. Cross Country is a flying trip found nowhere else.
More info: https://xcmag.com
Win a wing – 48 hours to go. Last chance to enter – subscribe to Cross Country before Friday 7 August and you'll be entered into our Prize Draw, where one lucky pilot will choose a brand new wing from Supair, Advance, Gin, Ozone or Swing – plus prizes from Naviter, Supair harnesses, Velodrom and more. Good luck!
What would you choose? –
***
Cross Country is the world’s international free flying magazine. Subscribers enjoy articles on new flying techniques, inspiring stories from across the world and deep dives into micro-meteorology, the latest equipment advances – and much more. As well as receiving eight premium quality issues, subscribers can access six Masterclass coaching sessions and discounts on merchandise, books, and flying accessories. Cross Country is a flying trip found nowhere else.
More info: https://xcmag.com
Let’s get you set up with a FIGURE of 8 landing approach.
Learn more in the PERFECT LANDING course on https://flywithgreg.com/pages/paraglider-landing
Music licenced from Audiio: Jared Marc (SYLKI_ORIGINAL)
🎯 Get pro tips and build confidence https://bit.ly/gregmail
📙 Read 101 Ways to Fly Better ■ https://bit.ly/flybetter101
🦅 Learn free skills in the Academy https://flywithgreg.com/yt/59-upstart
#paraglidingtips #paragliding #flywithgreg
Subscribe to this channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcTRjUGEiAumD-K9_Nw05A/join
📖 RECOMMENDED READING
Paragliding Beginner's Guide ■ https://bit.ly/beginpg
Understanding the Sky ■ https://bit.ly/understandsky
The Best Flying Sites of the ALPS ■ https://flywithgreg.com/pages/paragliding-in-the-alps
* AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE
I sometimes earn a small commission from these websites at no additional cost to you.
2026 PWC Gemona, Italy - Task 3
Task 3 brought another exciting day of racing in Gemona, with pilots once again making the most of the alpine terrain as they searched for the fastest route around the course.
The day rewarded smart tactical decisions rather than outright speed. At the start, the field quickly split into two groups, each choosing a different line after the first climb. While both options appeared viable, the decisive move came early when a small group chose to stop and climb all the way to cloudbase before pushing on.
That decision proved crucial, allowing the leaders to reach the highest altitude of the day at around 2,200 meters and giving them the confidence to move ahead of the main gaggle.
Further along the course, the key moment came approaching the next turnpoint beside a large ridge. Rather than taking the more direct line, Justin Puthod chose to fly lower to connect with the ridge before taking his time to climb back to the top. The strategy paid off, as the chasing pilots arrived later and at a lower altitude, unable to match his position.
Holding both the height advantage and the lead, Puthod completed the out-and-return section in front of the field before rejoining the main group on the final leg to goal. Thanks to his strong tactical flying throughout the course, he secured the task victory.
The day's victory also secured a team win for Niviuk, while Daphnée Ieropoli claimed the women's victory with another impressive performance.
With three tasks now completed—including the stopped opening day—the competition in Gemona continues to deliver a mix of tactical racing, patience and precise decision-making, setting the stage for another exciting day ahead.
00:00:00 Gliding to the start
00:01:11 Start of speed section
00:04:39 First ridge section
00:10:30 Unexpected +6m/s thermal
00:13:15 Cloudbase
00:15:56 Smaller thermal on the way to Meduno
00:18:53 Annoying headwind on the plateau
00:22:34 Connecting back with the inside line gaggle
00:25:58 Beautiful ridge racing section
00:35:38 TP1
00:36:09 Back to the ridge
00:40:00 Few turns before going back to Meduno
00:43:02 Weak thermals on the way back
00:48:04 Busy gaggle
00:54:34 Some guy does a spin for style points
00:58:30 Did not believe the leading group would find such a strong thermal and now I'm late
01:01:05 Leading group goes for last turnpoint
01:04:24 TP2
01:06:25 Full speed to the goal
01:07:08 End of speed section
01:08:02 Goal
01:09:28 Landing
Time to upgrade? Subscribe to Cross Country before Friday 7 August and you'll be entered into our Prize Draw, where one lucky pilot will choose a brand new wing from Supair, Advance, Gin, Ozone or Swing – plus prizes from Naviter, Supair harness, Velodrom and more.
What would you choose?
Find out more – https://xcmag.info/PDS2624HREELYT
***
Cross Country is the world’s international free flying magazine. Subscribers enjoy articles on new flying techniques, inspiring stories from across the world and deep dives into micro-meteorology, the latest equipment advances – and much more. As well as receiving eight premium quality issues, subscribers can access six Masterclass coaching sessions and discounts on merchandise, books, and flying accessories. Cross Country is a flying trip found nowhere else.
More info: https://xcmag.com
Release your inner savage... The Supair Savage 2 is for EN-C pilots who want to fly far in the mountains.
Subscribe to Cross Country before Friday 7 August and you'll be entered into our Prize Draw, where one lucky pilot will choose a brand new wing from Supair, Advance, Gin, Ozone or Swing – that's an incredible 49 wings to choose from.
What would you choose?
Find out more – https://xcmag.info/PDS26SUPREELYT
***
Cross Country is the world’s international free flying magazine. Subscribers enjoy articles on new flying techniques, inspiring stories from across the world and deep dives into micro-meteorology, the latest equipment advances – and much more. As well as receiving eight premium quality issues, subscribers can access six Masterclass coaching sessions and discounts on merchandise, books, and flying accessories. Cross Country is a flying trip found nowhere else.
More info: https://xcmag.com
2026 PWC Gemona, Italy - Task 2
After yesterday's stopped opening task, pilots were greeted with much more promising weather for Task 2 of the Paragliding World Cup in Gemona, Italy. The task committee set an 87.6 km optimized course, once again making full use of the surrounding terrain while carefully balancing the day's conditions.
The race began along the foothills with a strong southerly wind. Conditions were stable and often bumpy, making for a technical start as pilots worked the mountain ridges. Venturing into the flats was initially met with some hesitation, with uncertainty over whether the valley would produce enough lift.
Fortunately, just after rounding the first turnpoint, the valley began to come alive. Fresh cumulus clouds developed over the flats, providing the first reliable thermals of the day and allowing the leading gaggle to push quickly across the valley towards the second turnpoint.
The return crossing proved to be the defining section of the task. Large cloud shadows covered much of the valley floor, significantly weakening the thermals and turning the race into a true survival challenge. Pilots had to remain patient, carefully centering every bit of lift to stay in the air while searching for the next climb.
After reaching the third turnpoint, competitors headed slightly downwind towards a sunlit hill where better-developed clouds marked stronger lift. From there, they were finally able to climb well before beginning the long final glide towards goal.
The difficult conditions earlier in the race left many pilots cautious on the final glide. Rather than risking a low arrival, most chose to climb higher than necessary before committing, preferring a conservative approach after spending much of the day fighting for weak lift.
Task winner Baptiste Lambert described the day as one that rewarded patience, explaining that some of his climbs averaged as little as 0.2 m/s. His persistence earned him the day's victory as well as a win for Team Ozone.
The first female to reach goal was Elisa Deutschmann, adding another strong performance to the competition.
With the first valid task now completed, the competition is well underway, and the overall standings are beginning to take shape as pilots look ahead to the next task.
00:00:00 Waiting for the start
00:05:29 Start of speed section
00:31:18 TP1
00:38:58 Going in the flats
01:04:34 TP2
01:13:07 High clouds rolling in
01:23:36 Realization that it's going to get tricky
01:37:44 Survival
01:41:15 TP3
01:44:13 Final glide with 11.9 glide ratio
01:47:32 End of speed section
01:50:01 Goal
01:53:18 Landing
Herausragende Erfolge für den deutschen Drachenflugsport!
Das Deutsche Team ist erneut Vize-Europameister in FAI Klasse 1!
Primoz Gricar gewinnt erneut die Bronzemedaille bei der Europameisterschaft in Italien!
Im Juni 2026 richtete sich der Blick der internationalen Drachenflugszene nach Italien:
In Gemona del Friuli trafen sich die besten Drachenpilotinnen und Drachenpiloten Europas und der Welt zu den FAI-Europa und Weltmeisterschaften 2026. Bis zum 13. Juni kämpften rund 100 Pilotinnen und Piloten aus 23 Nationen in den Klassen der flexiblen Drachen (Class 1) und Starrflügler (Class 5) um Medaillen in der Einzel- und Teamwertung.
Dieses Video zeigt die schönsten und spannendsten Momente in FAI Klasse 1.
Zur Weltmeisterschaft in Klasse 5 (Starrflügel) gibt es ein separates Video auf diesem Kanal.
Markus Baisch ist neuer Weltmeister 2026. Sein Vater Carlo gewann Bronze.
Das Deutsche Team wurde Weltmeister!
Zusammen sind dies die größten Erfolge in der Geschichte des DHV Wettkampfsports!
Kamera: Regina Glas, Luise Christmann, Rudl Bürger
Bordkamera: Kajo Clauss
Schnitt: Charlie Jöst
Im Auftrag des DHV
copyright 2026
Most pilots meet their first spin by accident.
To me that is backwards. A spin you understand is a tool. It turns the wing fast when you need to be somewhere other than where you are, which matters the day someone flies at you and there is no other exit. And when one does catch you out, your hands already know the answer, because you have been there on purpose, over water, with a boat underneath you.
The more we play with spins, the less likely we are to spin one by accident.
JOIN OUR SIV!
October 2026 - 1st to 3rd and 5th to 7th
https://www.flyingkarlis.com/siv-course-lake-garda/
Kris Holub is one of the most versatile pilots in the American free-flight community — an accomplished acro competitor, XC pilot, and SIV/acro instructor who has spent the last four years running clinics out of Oludeniz, Turkey. Gavin sat down with Kris in person during a weather day at the US Nationals in Chelan this June to talk about his extraordinary winter season in Bariloche, Argentina, where he and his friend Marcos Rosenkjer explored one of the most underrated and unknown and seriously awesome XC destinations in the world — and capped it off with a 345km convergence flight into the Patagonian desert.