Adrenaline Sports > Hang Gliding

Hang Gliding

Hang gliding is a must for anyone looking to try something new. It's closely related to  gliding but uses much simpler and less expensive equipment. The pilot is mounted on a harness that hangs from either a aluminum or composite framed fabric wing. During flight the gliders is maneuvered by a shift in body weight.

Hang gliding in its modern form is great fun but it's also one of the oldest forms of man's attempt to emulate the birds. Otto Lilienthal was the most successful early aviator and made more than two thousand gliding flights in the late 1800's. 

Foot launching from a hill is the normal technique to get airbourne, after which the pilot uses thermals (solar heating of surface air) and ridge lift (winds moving over geographical features) to keep flying. Manfred Ruhmer holds the current world record for 'free distance' flying with 700.6 km (435.3 miles) in 2001, but we suggest taking a few lessons before you try and beat his record. You can book a hang gliding course throughout the UK or turn this amazing activity into a feature of a world trip of your choice!