FAQ's

General Questions

Why should I have my paraglider inspected?

Regular inspections help identify wear, ageing and damage that may affect the performance, handling and airworthiness of your wing. Testing provides objective data on the condition of critical components and supports informed maintenance decisions.

How often should my wing be inspected?

Inspection intervals vary by manufacturer, but most recommend an inspection every 100–200 flying hours or every 1–2 years, whichever comes first. All gliders brought to our workshop will have the specific manufacturers recomendations and tolerances followed precisely. 

How long does an inspection take?

Typical turnaround is 1 week, depending on workload and the services requested. We can arrange to move faster if required. Some services reuqire less time and can be turned around in 1 or 2 days. Call us for up to date turnaround times.

Trim Tuning & Line Questions

What is trim tuning?

Trim tuning involves measuring and assessing the length of suspension lines against manufacturer specifications to identify shrinkage, stretching and asymmetry.

Why do lines change length over time?

Suspension lines are subject to loading, environmental exposure and material ageing, all of which can cause gradual dimensional changes. These changes dont happen uniformly across the wing.

How can poor trim affect my wing?

Out-of-trim wings may experience altered launch characteristics, reduced performance, changes in handling and increased susceptibility to certain flight behaviours.

When should I do my first trim tune?

New lines undergo an initial "settling" period. Significant stretch or shrinkage often happens within the first 20 hours of flight, with stabilisation occurring around 50 hours. Usually we see this more on the B/C/Ds as they are less loaded than the 'A's and the lines further to the wing tips. A trim check during this window resets your wing to its optimal factory geometric state. Different line materials dictate the likely amount of variation, with dyneema being far more susceptible to change than aramid/kevlar - although it has superior UV and abrasion resistance. Due to the wider span, higher aspect wings often fall out of factory tolerances quicker. 

What is line strength testing?

Line strength testing uses calibrated equipment to measure the breaking strength of selected line samples, providing objective data on line condition.

Why is line strength testing destructive?

The line sample is loaded until failure to accurately determine its remaining strength. Only selected samples are tested. These are usually lines from the 'A' rows as they recieve the most load during flight. The tested lines are then changed out for new ones.

How does flying on the coast affect my wing?

Flying in humid, coastal environments accelerates line changes. Moisture can cause specific line groups—especially unloaded lines or those near the rear—to shrink more rapidly than loaded main lines.

Are their differences between parakites and paragliders?

Unlike standard paragliders, parakites feature intricate pulley ratios (such as 1/3 and 1/6 mixing system). This means smaller shifts in line length can be amplified affecting the position of your trim speed, stall point and a reduction in overall top end. Most parakite risers, as well as the pulley lines are also susceptible to variation of length. 

How do you know your parakite is out of Trim?

It feels like it is flying slower.
Higher stall point.
Less dive.
Loss of pressure definition before the stall point (easier to stall).
It hangs back at launch or doesn't launch cleanly.

Porosity & Fabric Testing

What is porosity?

Porosity measures how easily air passes through the canopy fabric. As fabric ages, porosity increases, which can affect inflation characteristics and overall performance.

What is a good porosity result?

Results vary between manufacturers and fabric types. Your report will include an assessment of the measured values and what they mean for the continued use of the wing.

Does good porosity results mean my wing is safe?

Porosity is only one indicator of canopy condition. Fabric strength, line condition and overall wing integrity are equally important factors.

What is Bettsometer testing?

Bettsometer testing evaluates the tear resistance of canopy fabric, helping identify strength loss caused by age, UV exposure and operational wear.

Will Bettsometer testing damage my wing?

The test is performed on a very small area using an accepted industry method and does not affect the normal operation of the wing. A small patch will be made to the fabric if required which should be seen as a good compromise for knowing the glider is airworthy.

Reports

What is included in the inspection report?

Reports may include visual inspection findings, porosity results, fabric strength measurements, trim assessments, line strength data and recommendations.

Will I receive a digital copy?

Yes. Reports are provided electronically for easy storage and sharing. We store all reports and can provide you with a full history should you lose your copy.

Can I use the report when selling my wing?

Absolutely. Many sellers use inspection reports to demonstrate transparency and provide confidence to prospective buyers.

Shipping

How do I send my wing to you?

Simply package the glider securely and ship it to our workshop. Detailed shipping instructions will be provided upon booking. Alternatively, you can drop it off to our service centre located in the Northern Beaches of Sydney.

Do I need to remove the harness or reserve?

We only require the paraglider, parakite or reserve parachute requiring servicing, unless additional services have been requested. For reserves, please check with us before removing your reserve from your harness. Without the correct knowledge mistakes can happen. If you're in doubt, we would prefer that we install the reserve into your harness in our workshop. 

Do you return ship Australia-wide?

Yes. We can return equipment anywhere within Australia.