SAFA Skysailor Magazine

19 September | October 2024 SKY SAILOR By drawing parallels to these successful ap- plications of VR simulation in other domains, we can see the potential benefits and advantages of incorporating paragliding VR simulation into initial training programs and skills progression with new paragliding pilots. The immersive nature of VR technology, coupled with its ability to simulate realistic environments and experiences, makes it an invaluable tool for enhancing learning, skill development and improving the overall safety of paragliding. Limitations No economy of truth can hide the fact that the simulator does not cover the most critical phases of flight, take-offs and landings. Take-offs in the simulator are automatic, with no pesky riser control to deal with or all the other subtleties which attend this challenging exercise. A simulator cannot replace the need for pilots to practise ground handling and take offs. However, the simulator can help pilots practise landing approaches to improve accuracy and to become more comfortable and confident when landing in new locations. Conclusion Paragliding VR simulation offers a unique opportunity to reduce entry barriers to par- “I have taken students to the CanGlide simulator during their Licence Courses, and it was great. The simulator is a great tool to introduce pilots to new sites and exercise skills such as ridge soaring, thermalling, and landing approaches. It opens up more training opportunities for when the weather is unsuitable to fly, and the students can experience new sites and a diverse range of wind conditions before they fly them in real life.” – Rafael Esquillaro, CFI SkySurf Paragliding A pilot-following view of a forming cloud street looking west from Collector launch towards Murrumbateman, NSW agliding and to experience the thrill of flying without the risks and costs associated with the real sport. By leveraging the benefits of VR technology, individuals can immerse them- selves in a realistic paragliding experience, develop essential skills, and explore new horizons in a safe and controlled environment. For already-qualified pilots it is important to identify and leverage off the simulator’s capabilities. This can be as simple as experi- encing a new site before you actually travel there, honing spot-landing skills, or refining ridge soaring and thermalling skills with an experienced pilot alongside offering guidance and teaching tips. New pilots can experience and practise how to deal with stressful and emergency situations to help them better manage such situations in real life and so reduce the risk of accidents and injuries – a particularly import- ant benefit since we all want to avoid accidents and injuries and to make our sport safer. Drawing inspiration from successful appli- cations of VR simulation in other domains, we envision a future where paragliding VR becomes a regular part of initial training and the coaching of new pilots to assist them develop accurate landing, ridge soaring, thermalling and other skills. Why not come down and try it sometime? We are confident you’ll not be disappointed.