Is Tandem Paragliding Safe in Alanya? Pilot, Wind, Rules
Is tandem paragliding safe in Alanya? Who runs the flight, which weather cancels it, and what to ask before booking, in this article.
Tandem paragliding in Alanya is reasonably safe when you fly with an experienced pilot and the weather is suitable. Even so, no air sport carries zero risk. Three things determine safety: the pilot's experience, the wind on the day, and your health. Below we have gathered the practical side of the question "is tandem paragliding safe in Alanya".
Who runs the flight on a tandem flight?
On a tandem flight the pilot controls the wing. You fly in front of or beside the pilot, attached to them by a separate harness. Take-off, route, altitude and landing decisions all rest with the pilot. What is expected of you is to listen to the instructions given before take-off and follow them. At take-off you are told "run" or "stop", and before landing you are told how to hold your feet. No prior experience or special skill is needed.
On the Alanya: Tandem Paragliding Flight Over Cleopatra Beach tour in our catalogue, you take off from the mountain with a professional tandem pilot and fly over the shore of Cleopatra Beach. The pilot guides you throughout the flight, and you enjoy the view.
In what weather is flying not done in Alanya?
With paragliding, the key safety decision concerns the wind. If the wind is very strong, very variable, or blowing from the wrong direction for the slope, a good pilot will not fly. Cloud cover, rain and poor visibility also postpone the flight. Flying is possible at the end of summer and in autumn too. Even so, whether the flight goes ahead is decided by the pilot that morning.
That is why, when booking, ask this: if the weather is unsuitable, is the flight moved to another time or day, or is it cancelled? Do not tie your holiday plans to a single day. If possible, fly in the first days of your holiday so you have a spare day. For choosing the month and time, you can also see our article "Best Time for Paragliding in Alanya".
Who is it not suitable for, and who should consult a doctor?
Tandem flying is suitable for most healthy adults, but not for everyone. If any of the following apply, consult your doctor and the operator before flying:
- Pregnancy
- Back, neck or spinal problems
- Heart and blood pressure problems
- Surgery or a fracture within the recent past
- A history of dizziness or fainting
Age and weight limits may vary by operator. If you are considering flying with a child, ask about these limits before booking. For exact limits, check the information on the tour page, and if you are unsure, write and ask. Do not drink alcohol in the hours before the flight.
Six things to ask before booking
A reliable operator will give clear answers to all of these questions:
- Is the pilot licensed and experienced in tandem flying?
- Are a helmet and harness fitted to every passenger, and is the equipment checked?
- If the weather is unsuitable, is the flight postponed?
- What are the age, weight and health limits?
- Where is the meeting point, and is hotel pick-up included?
- Is photo and video recording included in the flight?
Avoid any operator who rushes you, brushes off your questions, or says "the weather is always suitable". An operator who is honest about the weather also cares about safety.
What to wear and bring on flight day
A practical list:
- Wear closed, laced shoes. Slippers and sandals cause problems at take-off and landing.
- At height the wind can be cool, so take an extra light layer. Long trousers are more comfortable than shorts.
- Wear your sunglasses secured, or put them in a zipped pocket.
- Take your phone and camera only if you can secure them. Loose items can be lost in the air.
- Eat something light before the flight. Flying on an empty or a full stomach can be uncomfortable.
- If you suffer from motion sickness, tell the pilot in advance.
The tour takes about 2 hours in total. Time spent in the air is only a small part of this and varies with the wind.
How does the rest of the day go after the flight?
If you flew in the morning, it is good to keep the afternoon relaxed. If you want to see up close the peninsula you saw from the air, Alanya Castle Damlatas Cave and City Tour by Cable Car covers Alanya Castle, Damlatas Cave and the city, including the castle reached by cable car and the Seljuk-era shipyard. If you would like to go to sea the next day, the Alanya: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch and Soft Drinks catamaran tour visits caves and coves, and lunch and soft drinks are included. Before your visit, check the current opening hours for the castle and cave.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do tandem paragliding if I have never flown before?
Yes. Tandem flying is designed for passengers with no experience. The pilot explains what you will do before take-off and controls the flight.
Will the flight be very difficult if I am afraid of heights?
It varies from person to person. In paragliding you do not experience height in the harsh way you would at the edge of a building, because you are not looking at a fixed ground surface. Even so, if your fear is strong, tell the pilot in advance so you can decide before take-off.
What happens if the flight is cancelled because of the wind?
Cancellation and postponement conditions vary by operator. When booking, ask whether there is a rescheduling option, and make sure this is written in your confirmation message.
Can children do tandem flights?
The age and weight limit varies by operator and equipment. If you are going with a child, find out the limits before booking. If your child is below the limit, that tour is not suitable for them.
How do I make a booking?
You can book on TurB2C by selecting your date on the Alanya: Tandem Paragliding Flight Over Cleopatra Beach page. Check the details on the page about the meeting point, time and health limits before booking.
