Records

(photo: Vol Libre)

Not all pilots test their skills by flying against direct competition; for some the search for world records is a constant challenge.
Since the early days, cross country flying has allowed pilots to push back the limits. Current hang glider pilots have brought the straight distance record beyond the 700 km barrier, and paragliders pilots over the 400 km one.

The FAI maintains files of all aviation records and CIVL lays down the requirements for class conformity and flight verification where hang gliding and paragliding are concerned. The requirements are to be found in Section 7 of the Sporting Code.

There are many types of record within each class:
- Straight distance
- Straight distance to a declared goal
- Out-and-return distance
- Distance around a triangular course
- Speed around triangular courses of 25, 50, 100, 150, 200 and 300 km
- Speed over out-and-return courses of 100, 200 and 300 km
- Gain of height

In addition to the open record in each class, there are categories for female and multi-place crews.

Click here to access the database and consult the current and past Hang Gliding and Paragliding World Records.

Approved Instruments
Control and measurement of record flights are made with a serviceable GPS or flight recorder with minimum 2d capabilities used in conjunction with a barograph, or a 3d instrument without a barograph.
For more informations, check Section 7D (Hang gliders and paragliders – Records and badges), chapter 5.4.1
CIVL no longer requires “approved equipment” as every month or so, a new instrument model comes out from manufacturers around the world, and CIVL wishes to remain unbiased as far as choice of manufacturer is concerned.

The Records, badges and flight verification Subcommittee