You Can Fly PPG Training
We’re thrilled you’re considering training with You Can Fly PPG! Our mission is to ensure you are equipped with the proper knowledge and skills to safely fly throughout your flying career.
Our training is typically 14 days (with some training at the beginning and end of the season being longer to build in a buffer for inclement weather). Over these 14 days, you can expect to learn the essential components to safely learn to fly paramotors.
Our training program includes ground training with topics that include but are not limited to: ground handling, glider design, meteorology, airspace, paramotor mechanics, and safety. Training includes ground instruction, simulator exercises, and flight instruction. Most students typically fly 5-7 days into the 14-day training.
All paramotor training is weather dependent, and weather in New England can be less than cooperative at times, so while the training could be completed in about 10 days, the 14 days allow for a buffer in the event of inclement weather.
Since the majority of Paramotor flight takes place two hours after sunrise and two hours before sunset, our training days typically start at sunrise and end at sunset with mid-day breaks. You can expect to work/train hard during the training windows, while getting plenty of rest on breaks and inclement weather days.
You Can Fly PPG Training Schedule - 2023
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May 1 - 21 - Simsbury, CT - **FULL**
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June 17 - 30 - Fitchburg, MA - **FULL**
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July 8 - 21 - Fitchburg, MA - **FULL**
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July 29 - July 30 - Ellington, CT - Tandem Flights and Intro to Kiting
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July 31 - August 11 - Simsbury, CT - **FULL**
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August 19 - September 1 - Berkley, MA - **FULL**
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September 9 - 25 AND September 25 - October 1 - Simsbury, CT (Adjusted schedule to accommodate the
Simsbury Fly-In) - **FULL**
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You Can Fly PPG Training Schedule - 2024
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Stay tuned for our 2024 Training Schedule! We plan to release the schedule January 2024!
You Can Fly PPG Training Philosophy
LOCATION:
There is REAL value in learning to fly where you will fly. Not only in similar meteorology and geographical features, but having the ability to drop back in with your instructor is a real perk as it allows you to continue to tweak your skills under the watchful eye of your instructor. Training locally also helps you build relationships with other local pilots.
We currently have agreements with: Simsbury Airport, Simsbury, CT; Fitchburg Municipal Airport, Fitchburg, MA; and Myricks Airfield, Berkley, MA. We are happy to research areas local to you, as well as use any training areas you have access to. We require a minimum of 4 students for each training date, so if you have a location and some friends looking to train, please let us know so we can make arrangements.
EXPECTATIONS:
Paramotor skills are perishable. This is a ‘use it or lose it’ sport. The skills you learn in training are the foundation for your piloting career; however, you will continue to build on this foundation for the remainder of your time in the sport.
We highlight this point because it does not make sense to train now and buy equipment months or years down the road. If you are unable/unprepared to invest in equipment during or shortly after training, then you should reconsider when to attend a training. Please do not leverage credit or spend your last money on this sport.
Our business model is based on teaching people to fly AND purchasing gear through us. It allows us to keep the training costs reasonable and affords you the opportunity to return to future trainings for continued skill development.
EQUIPMENT:
During training, you will have full access to You Can Fly PPG motors and wings so that you can try various gear before investing. We will help you determine what gear is most appropriate for your size, skill level, and intended use.
We strongly encourage you NOT to purchase equipment prior to training. Your training allows you to try various gear and understand what equipment will work for you after training. If you purchase gear before training, we cannot guarantee it is the right fit/quality you will need.
We are affiliated with Parajet, Fly Products, Scout, Bruce Goldsmith Design (BGD wings), Ozone, and MicroAvionics. We are happy to answer any questions you have to ensure the gear you invest in will support your flying endeavors.
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Training FAQs
- What is the training investment?
Training can often be accomplished in approximately 10 days, however, we offer a 14-day training course, which allows for a buffer in the event of inclement weather. The 14-day training includes ground school modules, simulator training, and flight training. The cost is $2,500. A $500 deposit holds your space for training and is fully refundable up to 14 days prior to the start of training. The balance due of $2,000 is due on day 1 of training and is non-refundable.
- Why is your training longer than most and more cost-effective?
We are aware that the weather in New England can be unpredictable, so we build in extra days for the training cycle to account for inclement weather. We are able to keep our flight training at a reasonable rate because our model is based on teaching students to fly and then having them purchase gear through us.
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- What if I damage gear in training?
You are responsible for any gear damaged during training. While it is rare, damage can include but is not limited to frame damage, propellor damage, and glider line damage. We do all we can to mitigate risk and damage; however, it does happen on occasion.
- Where do you train?
We currently have relationships with: Simsbury Airport, Simsbury, CT; Fitchburg Municipal Airport, Fitchburg, MA; Harriman & West Airport, North Adams, MA; and Myricks Airfield, Berkley, MA. We are open to train throughout the New England Region and are happy to discuss any training areas that are convenient to you. We require a minimum of 4 students at each training, so we will set locations for training dates as interest dictates.
- How much money should I prepare to invest in this sport?
You should be prepared to invest approximately $15,000 in this sport. The training cost is $2,500, a new motor ranges from $8,000-$10,000, a new wing is approximately $3,600, and accessories such as aviation radios, helmets, communications, and gloves range from $500, $1,000. Used gear may be found; however, new gear is encouraged for reliability and safety.
- What if I can’t make all 14 days of the training?
We recommend that you clear your schedule for as many days as possible in one training cycle. Repetition is required for skill progression. However, if you are unable to make a few days in the cycle, we will work with you to ensure you cover all the ground school modules. As a You Can Fly PPG alumni, you will also be welcome to shadow any future training (on your own gear).
- What can I expect during training?
Since the majority of paramotor flight takes place two hours after sunrise and two hours before sunset, our training days typically start at sunrise and end at sunset with mid-day breaks. You can expect to work/train hard during the training windows, while getting plenty of rest on breaks and inclement weather days.
- Do I need to be in shape to attend this training?
We recommend you have a level of physical fitness that allows you to run 50 feet with your arms overhead, while carrying approximately 60 pounds on your back. Excellent ground handlers make excellent pilots, so you can expect to spend a lot of the training running across the field (without a motor) as you learn to kite the glider.
- What can I expect after training?
After training, you will be added to the You Can Fly PPG alumni group. Inside this group, you’ll be able to network with other pilots in your area, as well as receive support as you continue to fly after training. In addition to a group chat, you are also welcome to shadow any future training (provided you have purchased your own gear), allowing you to refine your skills and increase your confidence.
- How do I know what gear to buy?
Since you’ll be able to fly on school gear, you’ll have some experience under your belt before purchasing. Nearing the end of training, we’ll discuss options and brands. We’ll help you make the right decision.
- What brands do you have a dealer agreement with?
We are affiliated with Parajet, Fly Products, Scout, Bruce Goldsmith Design (BGD wings), Ozone, and MicroAvionics. We are happy to answer any questions you have to ensure the gear you invest in will support your flying endeavors.
- What costs are associated with the sport after training?
After training, you’ll want to invest in a good helmet with radio communications. Optional accessories include gloves for cold weather flying, a windsock, a ground-handling harness, a ground-handling glider, and motor maintenance equipment. We provide a comprehensive list of supplies during training so you can invest in the appropriate gear.
I'M READY TO DO IT! NOW WHAT?
Awesome! We’re happy to get things rolling for you. Please complete the questionnaire by clicking the button below with your information. We will be in touch shortly thereafter to discuss your training needs, answer any questions, and determine which date/location will be most appropriate for you.
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When you are ready to commit to a training date/location, there is a $500 deposit to secure your spot. The deposit is fully refundable until 7 days prior to the start of your training. The remaining balance is due on day 1 of training.