Powered Parachute Links
Why a Powered Parachute Instead of a Fixed Wing Craft?
The most important reason is safety. Powered Parachutes have unparalleled
safety in the aviation industry. The reason for this is the "wing" employed by
this type of aircraft. The wing of a powered parachute is formed by the
parachute, and because of its inherent characteristics and constant airspeed
of the craft, it is virtually impossible for the pilot to roll, loop or stall as you could
in a conventional aircraft. In the unlikely event o9f a complete engine failure,
the parachute allows slow descent while maintaining all turning capability.Second, powered parachute training is easy and quick. It normally takes only
2 to 4 hours for a student to complete ground training and solo in a powered
parachute, and the training fees are surprisingly low.Third, It is fun!
How Does It Work?
First you lay the canopy out on the ground behind the craft and then buckle into
the seat. After starting the engine, the pilot gradually pulls back on the throttle.
As the craft begins to move forward, the canopy lifts off the ground and becomes
inflated as more air is forced into the cells. Once the canopy is overhead and fully
inflated, it assumes the shape of an aerodynamic wing. The pilot continues to
add throttle until lift-off is achieved. Once in the air, the pilot needs only to adjust
the throttle for increasing or decreasing altitude.There are only three controls for the machine: right and left foot bars, which will
cause the machine to turn right or left when pushed, a stick which you pull back
to go up or push forward to go down and a throttle to add or reduce power.Once airborne, you will cruise at a constant 30 mph and may fly at altitudes up to
10,550 feet. However most flying is done at low altitudes (100-300 feet) which
gives you the opportunity of aerial photography and wildlife observation.Landings are equally easy. During the approach to the landing area, the pilot lines
the craft up into the wind. Gradually decreasing the throttle allows the craft to
slowly descend, almost landing itself.Do I need a Pilot's License?
No license is necessary to operate any of the single-seat models.
A Basic Flight Instructor (BFI) rating is required to fly and to take passengers on
2-seat models. You must log a minimum of 25 hours of solo flight time, after which
your instructor can give you the required oral and written tests to gain BFI status.
Mitchell Powered Parachutes
LLC
Sandy Mitchell, mgr, AFI
208-356-5070 Cell 208-351-5070
email mitchute@ida.net