FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What is a Powered Parachute?
A: A Powered Parachute is classed as an Ultralight aircraft by Transport Canada's Aviation Branch. The powered Parachute is relatively new to Canada and very simple to operate; more importantly, it is a very safe way to fly.
Q: Do I need a Pilot's License?
A: Yes, you must pass a ground school course and complete a minimum of 5 hours total flight time, amongst other requirements. See subsection 421.21 of the Canadian Air Regulations (CARs) which outlines the requirements.
Q: How long does it take to complete the ground school course?
A: Individuals with no prior flight skills generally require about 8 to 10 hours of ground school instruction, completed over 2 or 3 days.
Q: Why is the Powered Parachute so much easier to fly than an airplane?
A: It is basically and inherently stable in flight and has only two flight controls to master:
Left/Right steering - operated by your feet; and a throttle which controls climb and descent and is operated by one hand. Your other hand is free to feed the eagles, or wave to the adoring throngs!
Q: Can the Powered Parachute stall or spin like a conventional aircraft?
A: A conventional aircraft's wings must have sufficient forward velocity to maintain lift; hence, to fly. This dynamic is controlled through both attitude (angle of attack of the wing) and throttle (engine power); both controlled by the pilot. Get either of these out of sync, and the aircraft may stall.
Generally, a stalled aircraft tends to spin towards the earth. A spin, especially at low altitude, takes all the fun out of it!
Unlike a fixed wing airplane, the Powered Parachute is basically a constant speed vehicle with an average airspeed of approximately 45 kph (30mph).
Consequently, it is almost impossible to slow the airspeed sufficiently to cause the Powered Parachute's airfoil to stall.
Q: What makes the Powered Parachute so stable in flight?
A: The pendulum effect of suspending the pilot pod below the airfoil provides self-compensating stability. This requires no direct input from the pilot. This inherent stability makes it extremely difficult to stall, spin, loop or roll the aircraft, under normal flying conditions.
Q: What is the wing (airfoil) made of?
A: The wing is a Ram-Air parachute which is made of ultraviolet resistant nylon. This design was originally developed for skydiving and was designed and constructed to withstand the high shock loads occurring on openings from freefall speeds of 170 to 200 feet per second. Thereby, it is "over-engineered" for its role as a Powered Parachute; and with proper care should last ten years or more.
Q: How do you get the Parachute inflated, on the ground?
A: Initially, the canopy is laid out on the ground directly behind the aircraft. At the start of the takeoff roll, the forward motion of the aircraft forces air into the openings at the leading edge of the canopy. This pressurizes the cells and the canopy assumes its airfoil shape and immediately flies overhead. At that stage, the airfoil provides lift and carries the aircraft into the air. The preparation and takeoff can be accomplished by yourself, without assistance - a one-person operation, from takeoff to landing.
Q: What altitude is the powered Parachute capable of climbing to?
A: Most Powered Parachute flights are conducted within 500 to 2,000 ft AGL (above ground level. Aviation Regulations require a minimum clearance of 1,000' AGL over built-up areas. Flights of up to 10,000' ASL (above sea level) are possible with this type of aircraft.
Q: How does the wind affect a Powered Parachute's flight safety?
A: Experienced Powered Parachute pilots are able to fly safely in winds which do not exceed 24kph (15mph). At these speeds, even though the wind speed is acceptable, the winds may be gusting, causing the aircraft to exhibit some rocking motions as the airfoil attempts to adjust to the varying wind speeds. As long as the gusts do not exceed the maximum, there is little danger to the aircraft.
However, most PPC pilots prefer lighter winds, as the flights are more pleasant. Needless to say, the aircraft should never be flown in high winds, turbulence or other adverse weather conditions. To coin an old flying phrase...there are old pilots and there are bold pilots; but there are no old, bold pilots!
Q: What happens if the engine fails?
A: In the unlikely event of an engine failure, the primary flight characteristic change will simply be that you will begin to descend back to earth, due to the loss of engine thrust. However, the aircraft will continue to fly in a forward glide at its usual airspeed of approximately 45kph (30mph). The descent rate, in the glide, should be approximately 10 feet per second (4 to 1 glide ratio) i.e., 4' forward for every 1' of descent).
This, by way of comparison, is significantly slower than the descent rate of a parachutist. Directional steering is controlled via the canopy, hence, the pilot steers the aircraft the same way, with or without engine power.
The excellent glide ratio, along with the maintenance of control, provides the Powered Parachute pilot with a greater range of suitable landing sites.
This makes the Powered Parachute one of the SAFEST METHODS of flight!
Q: How long can I fly on one tank of fuel?
A: Actual flight times will vary based on aircraft and conditions, however, on average the engine consumes approximately 2 to 2 1/2 gallons (9-11 litres) per hour. For example, a 10 gallon fuel tank usually allows 4 to 5 hours of flight. The wise pilot keeps at least 1/2 an hour's worth of fuel in reserve.
This makes Powered Parachutes one of the most fuel-efficient methods of powered flight!
Q: How do I transport and store my Powered Parachute?
A: The aircraft is easily transported on almost any trailer, such as a snowmobile, flatbed, or even in the bed of a pickup truck. If you have an enclosed trailer, that would be ideal for transport and for storage. A single car garage will easily accommodate your aircraft; and depending on the garage, may even leave enough room for your motorcycle or a small car.
Note:
Information provided in the foregoing may vary with individual circumstances, such as; weather, temperature, humidity and other environmental conditions; area of flight; engine type and performance; pilot technique; payload weight; make and/or model of aircraft; etc. Takeoff and landing distances may vary from 50 to 500 feet.
Frequenty Asked Questions
