As a visiting pilot we ask you to understand a few things which are particular to paragliding at our sites. Most visitors happily know all this without telling.
Paragliding is very free and not strictly regulated in Denmark. This in reality places a great responsibility on pilots in many aspects.
On most of the sites we depend on the goodwill of land owners and local residents. If people or authorities get a negative impression in terms of security or general behavior around our sport, we face a very real risk of getting shut down on the precious few sites that we use.
Every year we experience accidents and hostile behavior by a few foreign pilots. This is often reported in the local press and we struggle to maintain a good image. It is frustrating that we as local pilots keep a very good safety record and a good relationship with locals while a few visiting pilots behave hazardously and without respect. This way all our good intentions are lost.
Coastal soaring is a little different from flying in the mountains. In order to fly we often have to start in considerably more wind than is typically the case in the mountains. This requires different and more sophisticated ground handling skills. Many of the accidents by foreign pilots happen in conjunction with starting in strong winds. A good advice is to go to the top of the dune and measure or feel the wind before starting on the beach!
It is important to be aware of the fact that the wind on the beach may seem adequate but it may very well be too strong for most pilot levels a little higher up. Many pilots have been surprised by this and gotten blown back into the rotor behind the crest where collapses are likely to occur. Very experienced pilots may be able to fly in strong winds. This does not necessarily mean that pilots unaccustomed to the local factors can do the same. We understand that this is very frustrating, especially if you have traveled far, but it is a matter of security!
On some days we fly very close to each other. Please pay attention to where other pilots are relative to you at all times. Be sure to know the simple rule: when two pilots approach from different directions, turn right! So if you have the dune on your left hand side you must give way by flying away from the dune. You must give way in good time and keep ample distance in order to avoid collapses on the shadowed glider.
Give room for inexperienced pilots. There is no need to enforce your right of way. Use your experience and simply turn away before a dangerous situation arises.
- Always fly with a helmet
- Please do not shout at people on the ground from the air. It is likely to be misunderstood.
- Do not fly over people who obviously prefer privacy
- Do not scare animals on the ground. If you see that animals are disturbed by you, please fly somewhere else!
If you practice Powered Paragliding (PPG) please take considerable precautions not to disturb people or animals by the engine noise. This is especially important on our soaring sites which risk being closed down for normal unpowered paragliding if people are disturbed by PPG engine noise. Ideally we ask you not to fly PPG at our soaring sites, but go somewhere else.
We are happy to show foreign pilots our sites - contact the club at: info@valhalla77.dk
Please pay attention to these rules and respect the locals.