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A Good Word

Sept 19, 2003

Our sport lends itself to both good and bad when it comes to the public eye. Don Jordan of Indiana and Mo Sheldon of Arizona have  recently garnered some good press in their respective areas. Don recently landed on the front page his local paper, the Herald Journal of Monticello.

Mo wound up being featured in the Arizona Republic, expounding on the virtues and fun to be had with our freedom flyers as well how the sport has grown in spite of its still-small size.

Besides the front page, Don is on the paper's web site too which can be seen by clicking here. To see the article with Mo (while the newspaper maintains it) please visit their web site here.

Safety Video Update

Sept 11, 2003

Its a monumental undertaking and has involved a number of people already including William Shatner. A major milestone was reached today with completion of the narration by professional voice-over actor, Andy McAvin (pictured right). Andy, also importer of the popular MacPara line of PPG wings, has been a PPG pilot and instructor for over 4 years.

Running time of the un-edited narration is just over an hour so the video will likely be about 1:05 long. Editing will be taking place over the next two months along with some shooting. Phil Russman, producer of the Paratoys video, is serving as an adviser and it is hoped the production will be out by late fall of this year.

Also, many thanks to the Parastars for their recent generous contribution to help fund this project. They made their donation in memory of Dave Robichaux.

World PPG Competition

Sep 4, 2003

The Paramotor World Championship was held recently in England. 

Spanish pilot Ramon Morillas won the overall competition with an an EPSILON 4 and PAP motor. He also won Two years ago with a SIGMA 4.

Results from competition are available at www.wmc2003.org.

Unusual PPG Rescue

Sep 4, 2003

According to a report in the Sacramento "Bee", member Greg Petersen effected a rescue of an Alzheimers patient who had lost his way. Greg found him by flying his PPG over the area where he was last reported. Greg directed the police to where the 80 year old man was lying in a clump of bushes.

The patient had gone missing on Sunday and Greg took to the air early Monday morning. Greg is an instructor in the Sacramento area and very active with the local group of pilots.

World PPG Competition

Aug 31, 2003
Ray McMahon

The third FAI World PPG Championship is history. It was held at Long Marston Airfield near Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire. Pilots are mostly from various countries in Europe but others are represented from far afield as well.

52 people from 9 countries were represented. Unfortunately none are from the USA.

Results from competition have come in and the top 10 are as follows:

1st. place.

USHGA & Uniting

Aug 27, 2003

Anyone who is a USHGA member should make sure to participate in the upcoming vote which would allow members to receive member benefits while flying their paraglider powered. 

The September Hang Gliding and Paragliding magazine contains the proxy card...please make sure to have your voice heard. You can also personally attend the special meeting on Saturday, October 4, 2003, in the Ramada Inn at Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, at 8:30 a.m.

PPG Radio Update

Aug 21, 2003

Michael Purdy, Casey Cadwell & Jeff Goin (Casey & Jeff pictured right) have teamed up to host the Powered Paraglider Radio Show.

The show offers discussion on various topics affecting paramotor pilots across the country including guests who are involved with the sport. You can listen every Monday evening live at 5pm Pacific (7pm central) by clicking on www.WorldTalkRadio.com.

In order to improve the show and insure it's continuance, advertisers are being sought. If you would like to share your product or service with an audience of over 10,000 listeners, please contact mPurdy@WorldTalkRadio.com.

Gift to USPPA

July 27, 2003

The country's largest organized paramotor-only club, Parastars, has donated $500 towards the USPPA's safety initiatives. Jeff Thompson, President, said the members approved the money during a meeting last week. It is to be used towards production of the already planned safety video and a newly planned safety brochure.

The donation was given partly in memory of the late Dave Robicaux (pictured right). It is hoped the education in these safety initiatives may help prevent future untimely deaths in our sport, few as they fortunately are.

Each production is hoped to provide an easy and informative method to show people where risks are in the sport and how to minimize them.

This donation is greatly appreciated and will help make both productions of a higher caliber and more effective. The brochure will be printed on high gloss paper using a four-color process and will be made available at fly-ins and other gatherings of PPG pilots.

The safety video features brief appearances by William Shatner and is narrated by professional actor Andy McAvin. It will have graphics, flying, examples of undesirable results, and should be an enjoyable watch with almost no "talking heads". There is a huge amount of information intended to explore the areas of PPG that have caused problems in the past. Phil Russman, the expert behind the "Paratoys" video, is serving as a technical consultant.

Many thanks to the generous folks of the Parastars and their part in bringing these projects to fruition.

Safety Video Update

July 24, 2003

Its a monumental undertaking and has involved a number of people already. An important part will be the narration which is being done by professional voice-over actor, Andy McAvin (pictured right). Andy, importer of the popular MacPara line of PPG wings, has been a PPG pilot and instructor for over 4 years.

The script should be completed by this week and will form the basis for the entire production. Phil Russman, producer of the Paratoys video, is serving as an adviser. It is hoped the production will be out by late fall of this year.

Also, many thanks to the Parastars for their recent generous contribution to help fund this project. They made their donation in memory of Dave Robichaux.

Airports Brochure Available

July 19, 2003

A new brochure with information on how to safely operate from general aviation airports has been created and will be made available to members. 

It is intended to educate both the paramotor pilot and airport management as to the capabilities of our amazing craft. It presents a sample airport diagram with descriptions of runway numbering, patterns, the segmented circle and how to obtain notams for the airport. 

Members may order a printed version for $5 or request a free PDF version that they can print on their own. Send an email requesting the brochure to theUSPPA@gmail.com .

Enforcement Action

July 12, 2003

A pilot has recently been touched by the long arm of the law. It involves the nebulous "congested area" portion of FAR 103. He contacted us for counsel and agreed to share his tribulation with others for their benefit. 

The story is still unfolding but starts with an early January launch from park land belonging to a local municipality, a place where he had flown from several times before including times when the police watched and said nothing about it. Following one non-descript evening of airtime the pilot was approached by police officers who wound up taking his name down and forwarding it to the FAA.

Now essentially the FAA doesn't want to bother with such things, few in the offices are out "to get" anyone, but for some reason they felt compelled to "do something". So in June, a letter of assesment was sent to the pilot with an option of paying the $1100 fine or appearing in a hearing.

The stated violation is for flying over a "congested area" comprised of the park and an adjacent road. He explained that he was plenty high when crossing the road but understands the FAR contains no altitudes, just the the admonition not to fly over congested areas. They are obviously considering it so. The regulation intentionally does not define "congested area of a
city, town, or settlement" which gives enormous room for interpretation. Additionally they stated that by doing so he violated FAR 103.9 prohibiting operation "in a manner that creates a hazard to other persons or property".

The important point is to realize that besides operating to what we think is the intent and letter of the law, we have even more to avoid. 

Recent negative publicity of our sport in Southern California and Salt Lake City has possibly left the FAA with a certain amount of pressure to "do something" and quite possibly this pilot is feeling the pressure of that. In this environment we must be especially careful. 

Exemption Update

June 19, 2003

In a conversation with Sue Gardner on June 18th, it was explained that our exemption was probably 45 days or less away from being awarded. She also clarified that all the organizations would be complying with a standards document developed by the tandem committee over the last few months. That adoption should take place within the same 45 days.

This document was a cooperative effort of the various interests and included input from USPPA, USHGA, ASC and USUA. Our new pilot proficiency program has been modified to these standards although few changes were made to the single-pilot ratings program. The tandem program was modified the most. 

The new program will be phased in within the next month as we distribute the information to our instructors and publicize it here on the web site.

Efforts continue to work on standards that, among other things, will allow recreational tandem operations so that appropriately skilled pilots can fly others without having to be instructors. Our hope is to see this this in place by summer of 2004.

Officers

June 4, 2003

We welcome Rob Reynolds to the position of Vice President which begins July 1, 2003. Rob has been heavily involved with behind-the-scenes development of the web site and brings an enormous amount of PPG experience to our efforts. 

Many thanks to Life Member Greg Anderson whose has served as VP since the beginning. His willingness to step up and participate is greatly appreciated.

Don Jordan will continue in his role as treasurer and we appreciate his continued involvement. 

Monthly Magazine for Members

May 28, 2003

For the first time in the history of our sport there will be a monthly magazine devoted significantly to Powered Paragliding. Every new and current USPPA member will start receiving the PPC/PPG Ultraflight magazine starting in August 2003.

In an expansion of the existing agreement with Ultraflight, PPG content will be further expanded and the August issue will be nearly 50% of the coverage. Equipment reviews, expanded incident reports, featured pilots and more will be regular features of this monthly coverage.

Vendors are being encouraged to support this new endeavor as we hope to make a dream come true and give our sport a significant and quality monthly publication. 

The yearly will go up by only $9 to cover the additional cost which is $34 per year. As part of the agreement, the USPPA will increase its editorial contribution with quality content of interest to powered paraglider pilots.

Paradrome Competition

May 28, 2003

All three days produced some of the highest winds of any prior event and only eight pilots braved the howl. Even if the required 10 showed up the winds would have precluded a running of the competition.

The next one is scheduled for the PoweredParaglider.com event in Gross Ile, MI. For more information please visit the competition events page.

Parastars 2003 Thrust Test

May 2, 2003

The results are in! The table of thrust results has been completed and is available here for viewing. Complete coverage of the Parastars event along with many pictures by a variety of photographers will be in the July issue of UltraFlight magazine.

First Sanctioned National PPG Comp

May 2, 2003

The first of hopefully several yearly national PPG competitions was held during the Parastars 2003 convention. Full details will be in the July issue of Ultraflight Magazine but the current national standings and other competition related material can be viewed on the new Competition section.

USPPA moves closer to
USHGA?

Mar 3, 2003

The USHGA, if its members approve, will be embracing these limited forms of powered flying, including powered paragliding. Of course they can do this entirely on their own but have given us the opportunity to participate in the process in ways that make the combination of efforts a greater whole.

Over the last few months we've had several meetings with Sue Gardner of the FAA (a process which will continue). Jayne Depanfilis, USHGA's Executive Director, along with several elected pilot volunteers who have been our greatest proponents. In all my dealings they came across as sincere individuals wanting the best for the sport. The realize the sports' similarities and are looking to the future.

Friday March 7th is a meeting of the USHGA board and they have invited us to make a brief presentation on how our organizations can work with them towards the common goal of enhancing the paragliding through inclusion of power. We feel that there is significant benefit to such combined efforts.

We have only informally talked about the mechanics and depth of any cooperative effort. Whatever happens, our efforts at education and promotion will continue and we will work with USHGA in ways that benefit our collective whole.
If there are aspects of what we do that would benefit by moving them into USHGA we must do so…our focus has to be on what is best for the sport.

My experience with these folks has been strongly that they are pilots first. They are not controllers, there is no financial gain, and the people of my encounter exude sincerity in goal. They have expressed desire to harness our greatest asset, the dedicated people who have given time and energy to further powered paragliding in the US.

To many powered pilots the biggest benefit is insurance. If we are indeed accepted as we fly, powered from takeoff to landing, it will allow us to drink of site preservation's Holy Grail: 3rd party liability insurance.

Just as significantly they have shown a willingness to recognize our instructors and pilots, possibly with a "motor only" type of rating. This would be a great way to provide the existing motor-only schools the ability to give ratings with broader recognition. Our hope is that while these would be motor only ratings, they would be able to have that limitation removed by going to a USHGA instructor not having the limitation. Ideally, our instructors would be offered the opportunity to join USHGA and gain the new rating "motor only" rating based on their qualification as a USPPA instructor. Our rated pilots could be given the same opportunity to move over and have a "motor-only" rating. None of this has been decided and much work would pass before being finalized but it has been discussed informally.

We are looking through a door of opportunity; our desire to open it wide and see our sport step up to the next level.

Changing: FAR 103 & PPG

Jan 31, 2003

A comprehensive report will appear in the USPPA publication "Powered Paragliding" and a broader treatment in the USPPA section of Ultraflight Magazine's April issue.

Changes are coming and this early vantage point suggests they will be positive.

In a two-day meeting held January 29 and 30 at Fantasy of Flight near Lakeland, FL significant enhancements were discussed relating to FAR 103. The Working Group, led by the FAA's Sue Gardner and attended by the USPPA, USHGA, USUA, ASC and NAPPF discussed the future of tandem operations (NAPPF is the North American Powered Parachuting Federation which, until recently, was a wing of ASC and is now on its own).

Only the lightest segment covered by FAR 103...hang gliding & paragliding, powered and unpowered will be talked about since tandem operations in the other segments fall under the Sport Pilot initiative.

The FAA's intention is to have this group work together to decide, within reasonably wide boundaries, how these tandem operations can be conducted with appropriate safety. They envision a three phase process leading to a revised FAR 103.

USHGA has the most experience with this segment and their program garners significant respect for it's success in managing their exemption within it's intended boundaries.

Neither the FAA nor any industry group has any desire to change single place operations at all.

Significantly for PPG, all the organizations present agreed on a set of standards for tandem instructors. For the USPPA, Sue Gardner indicated she would "push through" our exemption request, allowing our already experienced tandem instructors to operate solely under the USPPA program. As with the other organizations, some changes will be needed to accommodate the agreed standards. We hope to have this in place by Mid-march and will keep our members informed.

Phase one is essentially complete and was the agreement on standards for PPG tandem instructors and the inclusion of the USPPA in the existing exemption. This should be completed by mid-March of this year.

Phase two will be developing an exemption that includes standards for tandem hang gliding and paragliding, powered and unpowered, including carts. It is envisioned this process will be complete by the end of November 2003. This combined exemption is essentially planned as a three year test to see how the operations work.

Phase three will be codifying that exemption into FAR 103 and is hoped will be completed within three years of implementing the combined exemption. 

Other import opportunities exist...the retention of carts and, more significantly, qualified pilots able to fly recreational tandems (no pay). As a result, it is likely the USPPA program will be brought even more in line with that of USHGA's which DOES allow recreational tandems. Note this NOT presently allowed except through USHGA.

There is much to be done and conferences will be taking place in the next few months to work out details. USHGA's Bill Bryden and USPPA's Jeff Goin volunteered to draft an initial grid of qualifications and requirements that will be discussed and modified as the broad group deems appropriate.

It is an exciting development that was not anticipated but is oh so welcome. The attitude of the FAA is refreshing and hopefully this spirit of cooperation and enhancement continues...we will all benefit.

ASTM Meeting

Jan 9, 2003

A meeting of the FAA, USPPA and other ultralight organizations has been scheduled for Jan 28th near Lakeland FL. The intent of the meeting will be to establish standards that will be used for granting tandem exemptions to part 103.

It is also possible these standards could be used if the FAA decides to incorporate any parts of PPG operations into sport pilot. There will be three USPPA representatives attending: Jeff Goin, Chris Bowles (Training Committee Chairman) and Terry Alford (Training Committee Member). 

FAA Meeting

Oct 20, 2002

On Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning we participated in a joint meeting with the USHGA and the FAA's Sue Gardener regarding our respective issues. She recognized the significant work accomplished so far in developing programs for paragliding and what we've done for powered paragliding.

After the joint sessions we met separately to cover areas unique to our concerns. 

For Tandem operations only, operating under an exemption, there is a desire on the part of the FAA to develop an industry performance standard for paragliding and hang gliding both powered and unpowered. Any exemption request would be weighed against that standard.

It is likely a meeting of those organizations involved with paragliding, hang gliding and powered paragliding will take place sometime in January. We will be part of that process and feel it has potential to improve the training environment in our sport.

USPPA Presentation at USHGA

Oct 18, 2002

On Thursday and Friday morning I (Jeff Goin) attended and gave a brief presentation regarding powered paragliders to a special committee then to the full USHGA board of directors. My impression is that the folks involved are sincerely looking at ways to help the future growth of the sport, including PPG pilots in a sustainable fashion.

It is looking entirely possible that insurance will be available to PPG pilots in a similar fashion to what is now available for free fliers. There is much work to be done and the process will not likely move significantly forward until March of Next year.

They recognize the accomplishment of our training program and instructors and are favorable to the issue of including them in any program they may come up with. Alan Chuculate, who is on our training committee, will be participating in their safety and training committee which would be tasked with developing a PPG program (powered harness as they are calling it).

They have offered to stay in close contact with our organization so as to work together on those areas of mutual concern. While our organization is small it has been growing steadily (now 170+ full members) and we have strong representation in the instructor ranks.

More information will, of course, be forthcoming in the next several months as it becomes available.

New USPPA Address

Oct 11, 2002

In an effort to better ensure continuity through officer changes and handle mail forwarding we have changed our address. The new address is listed on the front page of the web site...it is:

USPPA, Inc
931 West 75th Street
Suite 137-150
Naperville, IL 60565 

The change will take several months to propagate through all the printed materials and we site references. 

PPG @ OSH

July 28, 2002

Our sport was well represented this year at the world's largest airshow in Oshkosh, WI.

Many flights were made with a variety of equipment on most flyable days. Pictured is John Magdic awaiting the go signal while Jeff Baumgartener sets up. Our membership was also well represented...all but one of the pilots who flew were USPPA members. 

Grant Smith displayed the Vortex motor and Arnin from Israel flew the new Reflex. There will be coverage including air-to-air shots of that wing.

Jeff Goin gave a presentation in the Ultralight Tent on Powered Paragliding and four vastly different motor designs were displayed. 

Safe Pilot Awards

July 26, 2002

After discussion of a proposed safe pilot program, recognizing pilots who complete some number of safe flights, John Phillips has agreed to develop the full program. Initially it will include the 500 and 1000 flight levels and completion of a safety seminar or equivalent.

Our hope is to recognize those pilots who succeed at safely operating their craft and also improve education to make the endeavor even safer. The program will include attendance or viewing materials of a safety seminar to be developed.

Airplane Lands at Parastars

June 20, 2002

When the engine fails in an airplane it's a far bigger deal than on a PPG. This pilot was quite fortunate that his time came where it did. He wound up "dropping in" on the Parastars DC field for his emergency landing.

See the whole story, courtesy of George Hawkins, by clicking here or on the picture.

Petition Filed

June 13, 2002

The USPPA petition for exemption has been filed and recorded on the DOT document management system. It is document 12476 and can be viewed by entering that number into the "Simple Search" at http://dms.dot.gov. The content is provided in Word document and PDF formats.

The petition is very similar to that of the USHGA. It seeks to allow tandem PPG flying for those operating under our pilot proficiency program. 

This was developed to provide a means for powered paraglider pilots to continue tandem instruction under our USHGA-like program that was developed for motor pilots. The existing exemptions expire and this capability would otherwise be lost.

FAA Meeting

June 08, 2002

The FAA is going over comments now for the Sport Pilot NPRM and plans on acting within 45 - 60 days. USPPA has tentatively set up a meeting with Sue Gardner during Airventure (July 23-29) to discuss our potential role in the future of powered paragliding tandem training. 

Our program was modified slightly (primarily in nomenclature) after comment from USHGA's Bill Bryden to better work with their's. 

Forum Update

May 09, 2002

The forum should be updated within the next week to reflect the members listed e-mail address. There will be over 30 added to the list that have joined but are not yet on the list.

If you have been removed by mistake, please let us know by writing theUSPPA@gmail.com . It is important that your correct email address be on file since that will be the only one on the forum.

Adventure Importer Change

May 08, 2002

Adventure Products is no longer using Powered Paragliding Sports (www.2get1.com), owned by Bill Walsh, as an importer for it's motors or accessories. Mr. Walsh said he will be selling his entire inventory of Adventure parts and will become a distributor for other products.

Mr. Dufour of Adventure said the decision was not intended to harm anyone and that they will continue to do business in the USA through Mojos Gear, Inc. (www.mojosgear.com)

New Supporter

May 07, 2002

Our sport has gained an important supporter: Kermit Weeks,  Fantasy of Flight owner and enthusiastic Aviation promoter. 

Under the tutelage of Francesco DeSantis and with help from  Jeff Thompson, Bill Hocker and Terry Alford, he has learned to kite and now flown off tow. 

Pictured above is Francesco DeSantis giving a tandem lesson while Bill Hocker enjoys the views behind. Photo by Jeff Thompson. The entire series of photos is available at http://www.parastars.com/Kermit.htm

Comment Period Closes

May 07, 2002

The comment period for the Sport Pilot NPRM has ended. The USPPA has completed a proposal for gaining an exemption to part 103 as outlined by the FAA in an April meeting. 

Work is also being done to include certain PPG tandem trikes under the exemption. John Kenealy, an experienced PPG instructor who does a lot of training with PPG trikes is providing valuable assistance in this arena.

Website Returns

May 05, 2002

The web site www.PoweredParaglider.com is back from a slow halt over the past year. Ron Estrada, the New owner, said he is determined to make the site more powerful than ever.

Thanks to the work of Eric Campbell and his predecessor, this site has been the #1 most visited site devoted entirely to our sport. Ron says "There is a significant amount of information available. I have been going through the site in the past few months and finding something new all the time. I plan on continuing the legacy Eric started and then to make this site better than ever."

He added "The site should be at 100% in the next few weeks and you will slowly notice subtle changes and a more user friendly site."

The store should be operational in the next few day's and will be offering many item like before along with new ones. He has asked for comments and stated that "the site is for everyone involved in this great sport so lets make it what you want!!"

New Members & Instructors

Apr 22, 2002

We welcome 15 new members, 3 new instructors and two more on the way. Congratulations! 

Please be patient as there is much to be done. The information must go into a database before going on the web so we can have address labels made out for the publication.

Instructor Administrators

Apr 22, 2002

The officers have approved a number of changes to the by-laws. These are intended to help our growing organization operate in a more streamlined manner and better accomplish it's goals.

The biggest enhancement is the addition of Instructor Administrators. This job was previously only up to the training committee but it was felt that the growth dictated spreading this out among individuals willing and able to bring new instructors into the program. Details will be on the web site soon.

Under a by-law that allows granting ratings to training committee members until May of 2003, the two new training committee members, Terry Alford and Eric Dufour have been granted Instructor and Instructor Administrator Status. As with the other members of the committee, they are both dedicated to the cause of excellence in instruction.

The process by which instructors are signed off was also amended as necessary to accommodate these changes as was the process by which they could be grandfathered. This was codified to prevent possible abuses of the system and to further limit the likelihood of a "good-old boy" network forming.

Lastly the percent of the membership that can remove an officer was changed to reflect a more reasonable number (simple majority). This was the suggestion of the politically savvy Jerry Daniele. The intent remains that an officer can be removed, mid-term, by a simple majority of the membership. This discourages an officer from making wildly unpopular changes to policies.

We feel it is incumbent on us to ensure the underpinnings of the organization are secure and provide for a fair and effective future.

Training Committee

Apr 16, 2002

Welcome Terry Alford and Eric Dufour to the training committee chaired by Chris Bowles. During our meeting of Friday, April 12, they were appointed by Chris. In order to accommodate the increased number, the officers approved a change to the by-laws allowing more than three committee members. It was felt that given our need for input from the broadest base possible, this would be a good move. 

Eric's experience as a tandem pilot and instructor will be welcome as will Terry's experience as both a pilot and past FAA designated examiner.

Most important is that this committee is made up of those wanting to insure excellence in training. 

Having these folks will help with the important task of gaining an exemption that will allow tandem training flights under the program.

Sport Pilot

Apr 12, 2002

We've met with the FAA and it was very positive. Sue Gardner heads up the ultralight portion of the Sport Pilot project and is familiar with the industry, knows the rules and was quite receptive to our proposals. There is more work to be done and certainly the final disposition of any attempt at gaining a new tandem exemption is months away. Even at that there would be a three-year phase-in period.

In no way will this affect single-pilot operations and we have NO desire to do so. We do feel it is important to have well trained tandem pilots in a program that protects both the public and the student pilot.

USHGA has also indicated willingness to assist in areas of mutual benefit. They have already been very helpful and have the experience of going through the process in the past.

Sun-N-Fun

Apr 7, 2002

Second only to Oshkosh, this gathering of airman and their wares is enormous...we are a small part of the equally small, but growing, movement towards ultralights. It amusing and fascinating to see the myriad methods man moves airborne.

The ultralight section, using about 2% of the available space, has quite a collection within it's own ranks. Most prevelant are the hang-glider trikes, followed by the 3 axis control machines, powered parachutes and a smattering of Powered Paragliders.

Aerolight showed the biggest presence with quite a bevy of available products including Trikes.

USPPA Publication

Mar 30, 2002

We have gained a size and budget that allows for the production of a small monthly publication. The intent of this newsletter-style affair will be to provide material of interest to the PPG community. Advertising will be eventually be accepted but not until we increase the number of pages which will start out at four.

There will be regular columns, fly-in reports and other items of interest. Regular columnists include Larry Pindar in "Safety Sage", Alex Varv writes "Motor Matters", Nick Scholtes will share "Tips and Techniques" and others will contribute on a variety of subjects pertinent to the PPG pilot. Other sections include a "Message to the Members" and "Industry Highlights".

Rob Reynolds is the Editor and Jeff Goin will serve as the assistant editor. Dues will be increased to $25 per year to offset the cost of it's production which is possible thanks to all the volunteer help.

We now move beyond the internet and look forward to better serving the community. It is hoped to eventually have a full-color magazine quality publication in the future but this gray-scale version (black & white) offers an affordable beginning. 

To see a sample of the front page click on the image above. For membership subscription click here. The final product will be slightly different (and may be more than 4 pages) but this is the concept we're working with. Please pick up a copy at Sun-N-Fun or the Parastars convention.

Forum Returns

Mar 17, 2002

The USPPA forum is back open. This was possible after finding volunteers to serve as moderators. The job of these individuals is to make sure that the rules are followed.

The forum is open to members of the organization and is intended only to discuss USPPA matters.

Sport Pilot Update

Mar 12, 2002

The FAA has now indicated a desire to work with the USPPA to allow tandem flying when Sport Pilot becomes effective. The effort will be in conjunction with USHGA who's well-established program was the basis of our own simplified version. 

We will be in a meeting during Sun-N-Fun to further find out what needs to be done in the pursuit of the goal. Once Sport Pilot is approved, the current exemptions go away and tandem foot-launched flight would not be allowed. We are working to ensure there IS a way to continue doing tandem flying.

Our current proposed tandem program is available here.

Radio Show Time

Mar 6, 2002

The www.wsRadio.ws PPG radio show is a 2-hour internet streaming talk show dedicated to our sport. It now will include a 20 minute segment by Jeff Goin regarding various topics including what's happening at the USPPA. 

The show, hosted by Michael Purdy and Casey Cadwell, runs from 5pm to 7pm Pacific time and this segment starts at 6:40pm. It is in a call in format so other participation is welcome. 

Tandem Proposal

Mar 6, 2002

After discussions with the officers and training committee, the final draft of an FAA proposal to allow tandem instruction has been made. It will be sent to the FAA both in electronic and paper form within the next week.

It is hoped to establish a dialogue with the FAA in regards to the regulatory process that is Sport Pilot. Our small branch of ultralight flying is excluded from this regulation which would, in 36 months, eliminate tandem flying.

Our program is based on a simplified version of the USHGA tandem program and can be viewed here. 

Forum Change

Feb 26, 2002

In an effort to improve the quality of our communications to and from members it has been decided to change the way the Forum works. It will now become a tool for announcements about our activities and a "letters to the Editor" outlet. 

This brings us to the same level as most organizations which publish magazines and prevents the medium from deteriorating into a pit of personal attacks that is no longer read by the majority.

Letters will follow our editorial guidelines and will be published at least once a month. Specific guidelines will be added which will mirror the moderation rules.

Training Committee Resignation

Feb 25, 2002

Francesco DeSantis has resigned his position on the training committee. "Check" was instrumental in setting up several of the guidelines and programs and provided counsel on the modified tandem program.

His valuable contribution to the start-up of our organization is appreciated and will be missed.

New Web Site

Feb 24, 2002

A new web site has been created by several California pilots, including Michael Purdy, to provide services to the PPG community. It portends many benefits since no intervention from the webmaster is required for updates. Among other things, this will make a great place for used gear. 

Individuals my post stories, for-sale items, photos and other items and they go on the site right away. A password is required but it is also issued right away and only requires a valid return email address. Click on the logo above to view the site.

IL Ultralight
& Lightplane Safety Seminar

Feb 23, 2002

This 22nd annual seminar, put on by the Illinois Ultralight Advisory Council, was a well attended and informative presentation of various ultralight subjects. 

Frank Beagle, the familiar voice of the ultralight field at the big airshows, was the MC. Speakers were KZ Zigaitis, EAA Technical Counselor, Dennis Demeter - Ultralight writer and experimenter, Jamie Kee - Chairman of the EAA Ultralight Council and myself, Jeff Goin on Powered Paragliding. 

Every year they have someone talk about one facet of Ultralighting and this year our little sport was featured.  

Several manufactures (mostly of PPC's) and organizations had displays. EAA was the most prevelant but ASC and APPA (American Powered Parachute Association) also brought representation. 

It's certainly apparent from attending that the majority of people in recreational flying have a passion very similar to our own. Interesting presentations, relevant subjects and good people made for a very successful event.

Exemption

Feb 17, 2002

FAR part 103 does not allow 2-place flying so various organizations have sought waivers allowing it for instructional purposes. 

We are currently evaluating our Tandem requirements and will be submitting a formal proposal to the FAA soon. Our goal is to have a program that gives the prospective passenger (student) reasonable assurance of a qualified pilot. 

Further we want to create a method of "grand fathering" those pilots already flying tandem both as instructors and administrators where applicable. If granted under part 103 it will only be for the purpose of instruction. If granted as a "deviation" under the Sport Pilot rules it may take a different form.

We also want to allow for the prospective tandem instructor to legally take a qualified pilot up to learn the tandem process. This is safer to an un-knowing public. 

Our membership has been discussing the issue and an updated tandem program will be created and then the proposal sent to the FAA. 

Sport Pilot NPRM

Feb 7, 2002

The FAA has issued the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and we are looking at it to understand it's implications on our sport. This portends a dramatic effect on two-place operations which is why we want to fully understand and report our thoughts to the membership. 

While the USPPA presently does not have an exemption for two-place instruction (and the exemptions go away under the proposal) we feel there is reason to pursue gaining one so as to prevent more onerous requirements for our Tandem instructors (FAA Licensing). 

Committee Formed

Jan 9, 2002

In an effort to educate PPG 

In an effort to educate PPG schools about our mission and methods, David Cook has volunteered and been appointed as chairman of the newly formed Public Affairs committee. 

David has already contacted several schools and will continue in this capacity.

PPG Radio Show
Oct 3, 2001

PPG Radio is on the air. Michael Purdy (pictured  right) and Casey Cadwell (below) have a weekly internet radio program dedicated to Powered Paragliding.

Each week will feature a different prominent PPG pilot. Details of the week's program can be found here.

The 2-hour live program can be heard through your computer at www.wsRadio.ws 5:00 pm Pacific time (8pm Eastern). Then press the "Listen Live" button. 

This week's program will include discussion on the value and handling of a reserve parachute.

Calls are be accepted, time permitting from anyone who would like to participate. The toll-free number in North America is 888.327-0061 and international Callers may use 1.760.476-4111.

PPG and the FBI
Sept 25, 2001

After the terrorist tragedy of Sept. 11 people are concerned about many things. PPG seems to be one of them. This became apparent after the IL Fly-In. 

Apparently some folks called the police during the event and reported a "Bunch of Hang Gliders" were flying out of a farm and "they were all Arabs".

The FBI wound up calling to ask questions and they were very understanding when told of the actual details. The police car pictured above watched the activities for a while: at the time, the pilots just thought he was curious.

So, in addition to being legal, pilots should be sensitive to how the populace will view their operations.

Landing an Old Flame
August 23, 2001

According to ABC News,  French citizen Thierry Devaux was taken into custody after being rescued from an abortive attempt to land on the Statue of Liberty's arm. 

Photo courtesy of ABC News.

This is the type of behavior that will only lend credence to calls for limiting our freedoms in flight. This flagrant violation of FAR 103, where he had to fly over the crowd milling about below, has potential to negatively impact our public image.

We encourage all pilots to denounce this type of behavior and to assure folks that this is not what we're about. This individual and his thoughtless, disrespectful, dangerous and illegal stunt does not represent our sport.

New Promotional Material
August 23, 2001

Bumper stickers have

These 3-inch stickers have a significant enough flaw that they are being re-printed (at no charge) by Freely Creative, the company hired to produce them.  There are a couple differences in the final product from the approved artwork but only the grayed warrants scrapping. 

The disposition of the flawed ones is to be determined and they may go out along with a correct one. 

Web Changes Made
August 15, 2001

Rob Reynolds makes computer's do what HE wants for a living. He is using some of this expertise assisting the goals of USPPA. In addition to working on automating tasks he has now started maintaining the "Members" pages.

When this is automated, member applicants will fill out a form and then, when the member's application is processed, the information will go into the database with minimal intervention. 

While it's certainly a good problem to have, the number of applicants was getting difficult to handle in the manual manner they were being added.

OSH...Where Were We
July 31, 2001

The EAA Airshow at Oshkosh, WI is the largest gathering of light planes in the world. Many ultralights are also featured in a section dedicated to them but PPG was almost a no-show.

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There was no foot-launched flying done there while Nick and I visited. If not for Scott Alan of Paraborne, there would have been no representation of our sport. He showed up with his wing line and Backplane motors. 

There were lots of powered parachutes and it appears the elliptical paraglider-type wings are becoming more popular. 

President Steps Down
July 29, 2001

Citing differences in desires regarding the proposed PPG4, Alan Chuculate steps down as president effective August 16th, 2001. He says he hopes that we will eventually be able to implement some form of higher rating than the basic pilot PPG3 which is the current highest accomplishment recognized besides instructor.

He will remain on the training committee and retains the Instructor Authorization to administer PPG1 through PPG3 ratings. 

Greg Anderson will take over the duties of the president.

In accordance with the by-laws the remaining executive officers will appoint a new president prior to the 16th. Any member interested in the position should make those desires known.

PPG4 Removed
July 24, 2001

After discussion by the members and officers it was determined the PPG4 rating would best be removed and revisited later. The strict maneuvers requirement caused most of the concern. 

The PPG1 through PPG3 ratings are being implemented and will be available for issue by Mid August. Several instructors have expressed interest in becoming instructors and they will be contacted when the program is available.

Future considerations for this advanced rating may be experience, types of flying completed, knowledge or skills demonstrated among others. 

First Meeting Complete
July 17, 2001

The 1st officers meeting was completed between flying sessions at Southern Skies shop in Moravian Falls NC. Chris and Tammy Bowles graciously hosted Francesco DeSantis, Jeff Goin and Alan Chuculate for three days. 

Many things were discussed both immediate and future. Of the immediate items settled on were the various aspects of the ratings program.

Updates will be placed on the appropriate sections of the web site as necessary.

Instructor Process Completed
July 17, 2001

The process of instructors getting certified under the USPPA program has been established. It allows USHGA and EAA/ASC instructors (basic or advanced) to administer the pilot proficiency program by meeting certain requirements.

To summarize, all instructor applicants send in a request to theUSPPA@gmail.com . That request is forwarded to the geographically closest training committee member who begins the process. 

All instructors must have the experience listed on the Instructor ratings section and pass the written test for PPG3 and Instructor. EAA/ASC instructors can become certified with two written recommendations (using a form) by USHGA instructors that attest to their skills and other areas that are equivalent to going through the normal USPPA instructor certification program.

More details on the process can be found

Instructor Process Weighed
June 29, 2001

Recent suggestions have been forwarded to allow for existing instructors to become certified under the USPPA system. Possibilities include using USHGA instructor references and ASC/EAA BFI status as criteria along with the requisite experience requirements.

This is an effort to insure the ratings are meaningful while at the same time allow establishing an instructor base. 

Also being considered is the use of video tape so that travel could be avoided.

The suggestions are coming from members as well as the training committee and will be weighed by the training committee and decided by July 15th.

Training Committee Complete
June 26, 2001

The training committee, headed by Chris Bowles, is now complete. Francesco DeSantis accepted the position and will help guide the establishment of policies regarding ratings and other training matters.

The committee will eventually be responsible for approving new instructor/examiners. Those individuals will then administer the ratings. 

Their goal is to maintain high standards and make the program available to as many pilots as possible. Participation from the instructor community is important and suggestions from members are welcome on the USPPA forum.

Demo Days
May 24-27, 2001

The event, sponsored by Cloud 9 Soaring Center is an opportunity for pilots to try out different wings. Conditions are fairly consistent offering a good platform from which to compare different wings.

While it is primarily a free-flying event, this year a few motors were present. Motors were essentially only used during un-soarable times....which were precious few.

Jeff Goin was there and his "coverage" of the event is available on the Demo Days Page. 

Incorporation Process Complete
Apr 11, 2001

The incorporation process is complete and the paperwork has been returned. A tax ID number has been obtained making it a bona-fide non-profit organization. There were no un-anticipated costs associated with the process.

Parastars Convention 
(Jeff Goin's  Report)
(All Picures)
Apr 11, 2001

The First Parastars convention is history and appears to have been a great success. Participants enjoyed flying, educational clinics, maneuvers demonstrations and meeting more fellow pilots than anywhere before. There were also numerous competitions and some flew small cross countries to nearby points. 

New Candidate For President
Apr 11, 2001

After meeting in Tampa, Alan Chuculate and Greg Anderson agreed to run for President, Vice President respectively. Mr. Anderson said that Alan would bring experience, connections and a personality to the presidency that will benefit the organization. He also feels they should be able to work well together. The election begins on April 15th and closes at the end of April.

DULV Report: Silex
August 17, 2001

Thanks to Fresh breeze for providing this information and Manfred for the interpretation.

The Flying at the Meeting
July 15, 2001

Of course the fun part was the flying and much was done. Chris and Tammy Bowles were gracious hosts and showed us some of the great spots to fly in their nook of North Carolina.

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