In some cases, people over 100 kg may also be able to take a tandem paragliding flight, as long as the available equipment, weather, take-off site and real conditions on the day allow it.
Tandem paragliding for people over 100 kg: what to consider
The passenger’s weight is an important factor in paragliding, but it is not assessed on its own. The pilot’s weight, the equipment range, wind strength, type of take-off site, landing area and the margin needed to perform the flight safely also matter.
That is why, if you weigh more than 100 kg, it is best to ask before booking. In many cases, a flight can be assessed, but the final decision must depend on the specific conditions of the day and the pilot’s judgement.
We share this video as a real example of a tandem flight experience in Gran Canaria:
Why weight matters during the flight
In a tandem flight, the paraglider supports the combined weight of the pilot, passenger, equipment and any additional material. Each wing has a recommended weight range, and flying within that range helps the paraglider behave correctly.
Weight also influences speed, take-off, sink rate and landing. That is why it is not enough to give one maximum number that applies every day. A passenger may be suitable to fly in some conditions and not in others.
Equipment, weather and the pilot’s decision
When assessing a flight with a person over 100 kg, the team has to consider several factors: available equipment, wind, take-off area, space to run, landing area and the weather forecast. If any of these elements do not fit, the responsible decision is to wait for another moment or look for an alternative.
The priority is not to force the flight, but to choose a situation where the experience makes sense. In paragliding, safety depends on making good decisions before take-off.
Can you fly if you weigh more than 100 kg?
Yes, in some cases it can be assessed. But it should not be understood as an automatic guarantee. If you are over 100 kg, it is important to mention it clearly before booking so the team can check whether the flight is viable according to the equipment, the available pilot and the expected conditions.
In some cases, the range may allow passengers over 100 kg; in others, it may be better to change the date, wait for more suitable conditions or not fly that day.
What information should you send before booking?
To assess the situation properly, it is useful to indicate the passenger’s approximate weight, preferred date, any relevant physical limitation and whether the passenger can run a few steps during take-off. With that information, the team can give better guidance.
It is also important to wear suitable footwear and comfortable clothing, especially because take-off may require walking or running a few metres depending on the wind and terrain.
Flying areas in Gran Canaria
The flying area depends on the weather. In Gran Canaria, different areas may be used depending on wind direction and strength, such as Los Giles, Las Coloradas, Agaete, El Puente de Silva and other points on the island.
When the passenger is heavier, the choice of take-off site can be even more important. Not all places offer the same margin, the same take-off run or the same type of landing.
Ask about your case before flying
If you weigh more than 100 kg and want to know whether you can take a tandem flight, it is best to first review the general information about the experience and ask about your specific case before booking.
You can find updated information about formats, conditions and availability on our page for tandem paragliding flights in Gran Canaria.
Frequently asked questions
Can I paraglide if I weigh more than 100 kg?
In some cases, yes, but it depends on the available equipment, the combined pilot-passenger weight, the weather, the take-off site and the pilot’s judgement. It is best to ask before booking.
Is there a fixed maximum weight for every flight?
No. It is not advisable to give one single limit that applies every day. The real maximum weight depends on the equipment, the wind, the take-off site and the specific conditions of the flight.
Do I need previous experience?
No. Tandem paragliding is designed for people with no experience. The passenger flies with a pilot and receives basic instructions before take-off.
Do I have to run to take off?
Usually yes, although it is normally just a few steps. If you have any physical limitation, it is important to mention it beforehand so the team can assess whether the flight is recommended.
What should I wear?
It is best to wear closed sports or hiking shoes, comfortable clothing, a light windbreaker and sunglasses if you normally use them.
Where does the flight take place?
The area depends on the wind and weather. In Gran Canaria, different take-off sites are assessed according to the conditions of the day.