Home / Blog / Paragliding safety · Updated August 2026

Is Paragliding in Medellín Safe? Myths vs Reality

It's the question almost everyone asks before their first paragliding flight: "Is it safe?" The fear of flying is natural and completely understandable. You're about to launch off a mountain at 2,600 meters, held up only by fabric and lines. It sounds terrifying, but the reality is very different from what we imagine. In this article we debunk the most common myths about the safety of tandem paragliding and give you the tools to make an informed decision.

Myth 1: "Paragliding is a very dangerous extreme sport"

The reality: Tandem paragliding (flying with a professional pilot) is one of the safest forms of free flight. International statistics show that the rate of serious incidents on tandem flights with certified pilots is extremely low, comparable to everyday activities like driving a car.

It's important to distinguish between solo paragliding (where the pilot flies without a passenger and may perform risky maneuvers) and tourist tandem paragliding. In tandem, the pilot flies conservatively, prioritizing the safety and comfort of the passenger. The wings used for tandem are larger, more stable and designed to handle variable conditions.

The International Aeronautical Federation and national free-flight associations strictly regulate the standards for training, equipment and operation of tandem flights. Every tandem pilot must complete thousands of flight hours and pass rigorous exams before being allowed to carry passengers.

Myth 2: "You need a lot of physical strength to fly"

The reality: The only physical effort you need to make is running downhill during takeoff, and only for a few meters. Once in the air, the harness supports your entire weight comfortably (like a reclining chair) and the pilot handles all the equipment.

People of all ages and fitness levels can go tandem paragliding. We've flown with passengers from 5 to 80 years old, people with reduced mobility, and people who had never done any adventure sport. The maximum passenger weight is generally 100-110 kg, depending on the pilot's equipment.

All you need is to be able to run a few steps downhill at takeoff. If you can walk normally, you can go paragliding.

Myth 3: "I'm going to get dizzy or throw up"

The reality: Motion sickness in paragliding is much less common than people think. Unlike a roller coaster or a boat, a paraglider moves smoothly and gradually. There are no sudden drops, sharp turns or abrupt accelerations (unless you ask for them).

Paragliding feels more like floating than an extreme adrenaline experience. Most passengers describe the sensation as "surprisingly calm" and "much smoother than expected." The movement is similar to a large, slow swing.

However, some people may feel slightly dizzy, especially if they:

• Are very sensitive to motion
• Ate too much before the flight
• Are dehydrated
• Are hungover
• Asked for acrobatic maneuvers

Tip: If you feel any discomfort during the flight, tell your pilot immediately. They can adjust the flying style (fewer turns, more straight) so you feel better. At Alas Madrid Colombia, passenger comfort is always the priority.

Myth 4: "The height is really scary"

The reality: This is one of the most common surprises among first-time passengers. Most people with vertigo or a fear of heights report that, once in the air, they don't feel the usual vertigo. Why? Because vertigo occurs when there's a nearby reference point (like the edge of a balcony or a cliff). In paragliding, being completely suspended in the air with no nearby edge or structure, the brain processes the experience differently.

It's similar to looking out an airplane window: the distance to the ground is enormous, but it doesn't produce the same vertigo as leaning over a fifth-floor balcony. Many of our passengers who are afraid of heights are amazed at how comfortable and relaxed they feel during the flight.

The realities of paragliding safety

Beyond debunking myths, it's important to know the real factors that make tandem paragliding a safe activity:

Redundant safety equipment

• Main wing: Designed and homologated for tandem flight, with a load capacity far above the combined weight of pilot + passenger.
• Emergency parachute: Every tandem harness carries a reserve parachute that the pilot can deploy in case of any abnormal situation with the main wing. It's an independent system and is inspected regularly.
• Protective harnesses: Modern harnesses include back protection (airbag or foam) that cushions any impact during landing.
• Certified helmets: Both pilot and passenger wear helmets certified for air sports.

Pilot training and certification

A tandem pilot is not just anyone who knows how to fly a paraglider. To obtain the tandem license, a pilot must:

• Have hundreds of solo flight hours
• Complete a specific tandem flight course
• Pass theoretical and practical exams
• Keep their certifications up to date with regular flights
• Know emergency procedures and practice them regularly

At Alas Madrid Colombia, our pilots have over 10 years of experience and thousands of tandem flights completed without incidents. The pilot's experience is the single most important safety factor of all.

Weather conditions

One of the most important safety protocols is assessing the weather. A responsible operator will never fly when conditions aren't safe, even if that means canceling or rescheduling your flight. Factors like strong winds, thunderstorms, rain or low clouds are reason enough not to fly.

If an operator tells you that "you can always fly" or insists on taking off despite questionable conditions, that's a major red flag.

How to choose a safe paragliding operator

Not all operators are the same. Here's a checklist to review before booking:

1. Certifications: Ask to see the pilot's certifications. A professional pilot will show them proudly.
2. Experience: Ask how many years they've been flying and how many tandem flights they've done.
3. Equipment condition: The gear should look in good condition and be from recognized brands. If the equipment looks worn or improvised, look for another operator.
4. Safety briefing: A serious operator will always give you detailed instructions before the flight. If they strap you into the harness without explaining anything, be wary.
5. Insurance: Verify that they have liability insurance.
6. Reviews: Check reviews on Google, TripAdvisor or social media. Look for patterns, not just individual opinions.
7. Communication: A professional operator replies quickly, is transparent about prices and doesn't pressure you to book immediately.

What NOT to do before and during your flight

• Don't drink alcohol: Not even in excess the night before. Alcohol affects your balance, coordination and judgment.
• Don't take sedatives: Check with your doctor if you're taking any medication that could affect your balance or reactions.
• Don't use drugs: It can be grounds for the pilot to refuse the flight.
• Don't insist on flying in bad weather: If the pilot says you can't fly, respect it. Your safety is worth more than a flight.
• Don't let go of the harness straps: During the flight, always keep your hands where the pilot tells you.
• Don't make sudden movements: Especially during takeoff and landing. Follow your pilot's instructions to the letter.

Medical conditions: who can fly?

Most people can go tandem paragliding without any problem. However, check with your doctor and the operator if you have:

• Serious heart problems
• Uncontrolled epilepsy
• Recent back, neck or leg injuries
• Pregnancy (flying is not recommended)
• Recent surgery
• Severe respiratory problems

When in doubt, always consult a medical professional before booking your flight.