SAFA Skysailor Magazine

45 AUTUMN 2025 | March-April-May SKY SAILOR in Bright for rides up to launch, supervi- sion and community. Eighty-percent of the female questionnaire respondents said that the Eager Eaglets made it easier for female pilots to fly: Whilst it is not possible to exactly rep- licate the Eager Eaglets at different flying sites, some of the reasons why the group has been successful include: a core group of dedicated pilots who fly regularly at Mystic and are supportive of female and low-airtime pilots; a culture of supporting other pilots; predictable and somewhat consistent flying conditions; and the lift up to launch which allows pilots to connect before flying. Strategies and tools at the state and national level include: • Tiered membership fee structure to allow discounts for parents • Increase the visibility of underrepre- sented groups • Target outreach activities to recruit underrepresented groups • Increased diversity in committees at the state and national level • Define specific targets for greater inclusion in the SAFA Strategic Plan • Women’s advisory council • Supporting a more inclusive culture at paragliding schools • Inclusivity training for SOs, SSOs and instructors • Formal policy and guidelines for dealing with unsafe and inappropriate behaviour These are described in more detail in the ‘Inclusivity in Paragliding’ report which can be accessed by contacting the VHPA. Of course, clubs and organising bodies are not able to address all the barriers to women in paragliding at once (let alone the barriers to other underrepre- sented groups) but the suggestions generated from this research provide tangible steps to make this amazing adventure sport safer, more inclusive and more enjoyable. Thank you to all the participants, who provided passionate and honest insights. [Pilots are] trying to fly off a hill – they need nothing but a supportive and safe culture. Eager Eaglets helps achieve that by setting a standard. – Female pilot