SAFA Skysailor Magazine

18 SKY SAILOR September | October 2024 Skill development: Paragliding requires a combination of physical, mental, and technical skills to fly safely. VR simulation allows individ- uals to practice and develop these in a realistic yet controlled setting. By simulating various scenarios and challenges, pilots can improve their flying techniques, decision-making abilities, and overall proficiency. For example, pilots can experience being blown back while soaring, or how to set-up for a tight, emergen- cy landing before having to experience these stressful circumstances for real. Immersive experience: VR technology offers a highly immersive experience that closely replicates the sensations of paragliding. Pilots can experience the sense of height and speed, and all whilst enjoying panoramic views of breathtaking landscapes. This level of immersion enhances realism; however, our experience is that it is particularly beneficial for pilots who want to familiarise themselves with new sites before flying them for real. Several ACT pilots used the simulator to familiarise themselves with the French Alps before flying there in September 2024. The simulator can also be used try out potential new paragliding sites before taking the next steps to explore them further. Accessibility and cost-effectiveness: Our sport requires significant investment in equipment, training, and time. VR simulation offers a cost-effective way for potential pilots to explore the world of paragliding before they decide whether to commit to training and the purchase of expensive gear. This in turn reduces barriers to entry to the sport. VR simulation experience in other domains To further highlight the benefits of paragliding VR simulation, we can examine its successful application in other domains. For example, flight simulation has long been used in aviation training to teach pilots how to fly aircraft in a safe and controlled environment. These simulations help pilots develop critical skills, practise emergency procedures, and improve decision-making under various scenarios. In the field of sports, athletes use VR simula- tion to enhance their performance and training. For instance, professional football players can practise plays, improve their coordination and reaction times, and analyse their game play through VR simulations. This technology pro- vides valuable insights and feedback to help athletes optimise their performance on the field. Virtual Reality Paragliding Simulation Rene Sedlmaier, President of the ACTHPA and long- term paragliding pilot. Rene and a small group of local pilots visited France for two weeks flying in the Alps in early September 2024. After flying in the Alps in the simulator before the trip Rene posted: “One hour’s XC over the mountains of France where we are off to fly next month. What a great way to get ready for the trip!” A pilot-following view towards Mont Lachat de Chatillon launch, France