Got Questions?

Tandem flights are operated by an APPI-certified team with more than 10 years of local Kamshet flying experience. Equipment is checked before use, and pilots assess the wind and weather before every launch. If conditions are outside operational limits, the flight is delayed or rescheduled.

The standard weight limit for a passenger typically ranges between 25kg and 95kg to maintain optimal wing aerodynamics and safety margins. If a passenger weighs between 95kg and 105kg, we can occasionally accommodate the flight but only during specific high-wind conditions and with a larger 'high-load' wing. It is crucial to disclose your weight accurately during the booking process so our technical team can prepare the appropriate glider and harness size for your body type. Safety remains our priority, so we never exceed the manufacturer's specified weight limit for any flight.

No prior experience or technical knowledge is required for a Tandem Flight in Kamshet! You will be securely strapped into a secondary harness located in front of a professional instructor who handles all the navigation, thermal soaring, and landing procedures. Your only responsibility is to participate in a 5-minute pre-flight briefing and run a few enthusiastic steps during the takeoff phase to help the wing catch the wind. Once in the air, you can simply sit back, relax, and capture the stunning aerial views of Pawna Lake and the surrounding mountains.

We highly recommend wearing comfortable, full-length sports trousers and a t-shirt to protect yourself from the sun and the harness straps. Most importantly, you must wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear like sneakers, running shoes, or trekking boots to ensure a safe takeoff and landing on hilly terrain. Avoid wearing flip-flops, sandals, or loose jewellery as they can easily fall off mid-air or cause trips during the run-up. Sunglasses are also a great idea to protect your eyes from the wind and glare while soaring at high altitudes.

The 'best' time depends entirely on the type of experience you are seeking. Morning slots (8:00 AM to 11:00 AM) are typically calmer and smoother, making them ideal for first-timers or those prone to motion sickness. Afternoon slots (2:00 PM to 4:00 PM) offer stronger thermals, which allow for higher altitudes and a more 'active' flying experience for thrill-seekers. Sunset flights are arguably the most beautiful, providing a golden-hour perspective of the Sahyadri ranges, though these slots are limited and depend heavily on the evening wind speed staying within safe limits.

Kamshet is conveniently located about 45km from Pune and 110km from Mumbai, making it an easy day trip. If you are driving from Mumbai, take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, exit at Lonavala, and continue on the old highway toward Kamshet. For those using public transport, taking a local train from Pune to Kamshet station is the most efficient method. Once you arrive at our basecamp, our rugged 4x4 vehicles will transport you from the meeting point up the steep mountain trails to the actual takeoff sites like Tower Hill or Shelar Site.

We offer professional GoPro 4K video recording as an add-on service, where the pilot uses a specialized selfie stick to capture high-definition footage of your reaction and the landscape. If you wish to use your own mobile phone, it must be secured with a neck lanyard or a chest mount to prevent it from falling; handheld usage without a tether is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. After the flight, our team will assist you in transferring the high-quality video files directly to your phone via an SD card reader so you can share your adventure immediately. Please ensure your device has at least 2GB of free space before the flight.

While paragliding is a relatively low-impact activity, it is not recommended for individuals with severe heart conditions, chronic back pain, or advanced epilepsy. Pregnant women are also advised against flying due to the physical nature of the takeoff run and the potential for a bumpy landing. If you have any minor physical limitations or a fear of heights, please inform your pilot beforehand so they can tailor the flight maneuvers to your comfort level. Generally, if you can run for 10 meters and jump off a small step, you are physically fit enough to enjoy a tandem paragliding experience.

Becoming a certified pilot requires completing a series of progressive courses, starting with the P1 (Basic) and P2 (Novice) programs. Kamshet is home to the best paragliding schools in India, offering 3-4 day residential courses where you learn ground handling, flight theory, and solo flying under radio supervision. After completing approximately 15-20 solo flights and passing a written exam, you receive a pilot rating recognized by the Paragliding Association of India. This certification allows you to fly solo at various sites across the country and eventually progress to advanced cross-country or thermal flying.

To secure your spot, you can book directly through our official website booking portal or connect with our flight coordinators via WhatsApp at +91 7666453090. We strongly recommend booking at least 3-5 days in advance, especially for weekend slots, as Kamshet is a high-demand destination. Upon booking, you will receive a confirmation voucher along with the exact GPS coordinates for our basecamp and a list of pre-flight preparations to ensure a smooth experience.

Tandem flights are operated by an APPI-certified team with more than 10 years of local Kamshet flying experience. Equipment is checked before use, and pilots assess the wind and weather before every launch. If conditions are outside operational limits, the flight is delayed or rescheduled.

The standard weight limit for a passenger typically ranges between 25kg and 95kg to maintain optimal wing aerodynamics and safety margins. If a passenger weighs between 95kg and 105kg, we can occasionally accommodate the flight but only during specific high-wind conditions and with a larger 'high-load' wing. It is crucial to disclose your weight accurately during the booking process so our technical team can prepare the appropriate glider and harness size for your body type. Safety remains our priority, so we never exceed the manufacturer's specified weight limit for any flight.

No prior experience or technical knowledge is required for a Tandem Flight in Kamshet! You will be securely strapped into a secondary harness located in front of a professional instructor who handles all the navigation, thermal soaring, and landing procedures. Your only responsibility is to participate in a 5-minute pre-flight briefing and run a few enthusiastic steps during the takeoff phase to help the wing catch the wind. Once in the air, you can simply sit back, relax, and capture the stunning aerial views of Pawna Lake and the surrounding mountains.

We highly recommend wearing comfortable, full-length sports trousers and a t-shirt to protect yourself from the sun and the harness straps. Most importantly, you must wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear like sneakers, running shoes, or trekking boots to ensure a safe takeoff and landing on hilly terrain. Avoid wearing flip-flops, sandals, or loose jewellery as they can easily fall off mid-air or cause trips during the run-up. Sunglasses are also a great idea to protect your eyes from the wind and glare while soaring at high altitudes.

The 'best' time depends entirely on the type of experience you are seeking. Morning slots (8:00 AM to 11:00 AM) are typically calmer and smoother, making them ideal for first-timers or those prone to motion sickness. Afternoon slots (2:00 PM to 4:00 PM) offer stronger thermals, which allow for higher altitudes and a more 'active' flying experience for thrill-seekers. Sunset flights are arguably the most beautiful, providing a golden-hour perspective of the Sahyadri ranges, though these slots are limited and depend heavily on the evening wind speed staying within safe limits.

Kamshet is conveniently located about 45km from Pune and 110km from Mumbai, making it an easy day trip. If you are driving from Mumbai, take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, exit at Lonavala, and continue on the old highway toward Kamshet. For those using public transport, taking a local train from Pune to Kamshet station is the most efficient method. Once you arrive at our basecamp, our rugged 4x4 vehicles will transport you from the meeting point up the steep mountain trails to the actual takeoff sites like Tower Hill or Shelar Site.

We offer professional GoPro 4K video recording as an add-on service, where the pilot uses a specialized selfie stick to capture high-definition footage of your reaction and the landscape. If you wish to use your own mobile phone, it must be secured with a neck lanyard or a chest mount to prevent it from falling; handheld usage without a tether is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. After the flight, our team will assist you in transferring the high-quality video files directly to your phone via an SD card reader so you can share your adventure immediately. Please ensure your device has at least 2GB of free space before the flight.

While paragliding is a relatively low-impact activity, it is not recommended for individuals with severe heart conditions, chronic back pain, or advanced epilepsy. Pregnant women are also advised against flying due to the physical nature of the takeoff run and the potential for a bumpy landing. If you have any minor physical limitations or a fear of heights, please inform your pilot beforehand so they can tailor the flight maneuvers to your comfort level. Generally, if you can run for 10 meters and jump off a small step, you are physically fit enough to enjoy a tandem paragliding experience.

Becoming a certified pilot requires completing a series of progressive courses, starting with the P1 (Basic) and P2 (Novice) programs. Kamshet is home to the best paragliding schools in India, offering 3-4 day residential courses where you learn ground handling, flight theory, and solo flying under radio supervision. After completing approximately 15-20 solo flights and passing a written exam, you receive a pilot rating recognized by the Paragliding Association of India. This certification allows you to fly solo at various sites across the country and eventually progress to advanced cross-country or thermal flying.

Unfortunately, paragliding operations in Kamshet are completely suspended during the monsoon months from July to late September. The heavy rainfall and high-velocity winds associated with the Sahyadri monsoons make it impossible to launch or land safely. We resume our flying season in early October once the rains subside and the landscape is at its most vibrant green. If you are planning a trip, we recommend checking our website in late September for the exact season opening dates and early-bird booking discounts.

A Classic Joyride is designed for those who want a calm, serene experience focused on scenic photography and gentle soaring over the valleys. In contrast, an Acro Tandem is a high-adrenaline flight where the pilot performs advanced maneuvers like wing-overs, steep spirals, and SATs that generate high G-forces. While both flights last roughly the same amount of time, the Acro Tandem provides an intense roller-coaster-like sensation in the sky. If you are unsure, you can always start with a joyride and ask your pilot to perform a 'mini-acro' maneuver if you feel comfortable mid-flight.

No, all essential safety equipment including a certified paragliding helmet, specialized tandem harness, and emergency reserve parachute is provided by us as part of your package. Our helmets are sanitized after every use and are available in various sizes to ensure a snug and comfortable fit for all passengers. Before takeoff, your pilot will personally check all your buckles and straps to ensure you are securely fastened into the harness. You only need to bring your personal belongings and a sense of adventure; we take care of the technical safety details.

Yes, we specialize in corporate outings and large group adventures, providing a unique team-building experience in the Kamshet hills. For groups larger than 10 people, we arrange for multiple pilots and gliders to minimize waiting times and ensure everyone gets to fly during the optimal wind window. We also offer customized branding options and can arrange for a dedicated photographer to document your team's aerial journey. Please reach out to our corporate events desk at least two weeks in advance to discuss specialized group pricing and logistics.

We maintain a secure cloakroom at our basecamp where you can safely store your bags, laptops, and other valuables before heading up to the takeoff site. We recommend only carrying essential items like your phone, wallet, and camera to the hilltop to keep your movements agile during the launch phase. Our ground staff monitors the storage area throughout the day, ensuring your belongings are protected while you are soaring in the skies. You can collect your items immediately upon returning from the landing zone at the end of your session.

Most takeoff sites in Kamshet, such as Tower Hill, are situated at an elevation of approximately 800 to 900 meters above Mean Sea Level (MSL). Once we launch, depending on the thermal activity of the day, we can climb an additional 300 to 500 meters above the ridge line. This gives you a total altitude that allows for a panoramic view of the entire Western Ghats, including distant forts and the expansive Pawna Lake. Your pilot will use a variometer to track our altitude and find the best 'lift' to keep the flight exhilarating and high.

While most people do not experience motion sickness during a standard joyride, those who are particularly sensitive to car or sea sickness may occasionally feel slightly nauseous. To prevent this, we suggest avoiding a heavy meal right before your flight and staying well-hydrated throughout the day. If you start to feel unwell mid-air, simply inform your pilot, and they will immediately transition to a smoother flight path and initiate a gentle landing. Many of our guests find that focusing on the horizon and taking deep breaths effectively mitigates any temporary dizzy spells.

If our safety officers determine that the wind velocity exceeds safe operational limits (typically above 25 km/h), we will temporarily halt all flights. In such cases, you will be given the option to wait for a safer wind window later in the day or reschedule your flight to a future date at no extra cost. If rescheduling is not possible for you, we provide a full refund of your booking amount as per our 'Safety First' policy. We prioritize your well-being over everything else and will never compromise safety for the sake of a flight.

The takeoff sites themselves are located in rugged, remote mountain areas where commercial facilities are limited to small local tea stalls. However, the town of Kamshet and the surrounding Pawna Lake area host several excellent cafes and dhaba-style restaurants serving authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. We recommend having a light breakfast in town before heading to the site and planning a celebratory meal at one of the lakeside resorts after your flight. Our basecamp staff can provide you with a curated list of local dining favorites based on your preferences.

Paragliding is a wind-dependent sport, so while your actual flight is scheduled, there may be a waiting period of 30 to 60 minutes for the 'perfect' launch window. We use this time to conduct your safety briefing, set up the equipment, and observe the wind cycles to ensure your takeoff is smooth and effortless. We recommend bringing a hat, sunblock, and a book or some music to keep yourself entertained while you enjoy the hilltop views. Our pilots work efficiently to get everyone in the air as soon as the conditions are safely aligned.

Yes, you can absolutely wear your prescription glasses or contact lenses while paragliding without any issues. In fact, wearing them is encouraged so you can fully appreciate the stunning clarity of the Sahyadri landscapes from above. We recommend using a sports strap for your glasses to ensure they stay secure during the takeoff run and mid-air maneuvers. If you wear lenses, your sunglasses will act as a wind shield, preventing your eyes from drying out during the flight. Your vision is key to the experience, so don't leave your glasses behind!

Absolutely! In a tandem harness, you and the pilot are positioned very close to each other, allowing for easy conversation throughout the flight. Your pilot will often act as an aerial guide, pointing out local landmarks like Lohagad Fort, Visapur Fort, and the Indrayani River. You can also ask the pilot questions about how the paraglider works or request them to tilt the wing for better photo angles. The communication between passenger and pilot is part of what makes a tandem flight such a personalized and memorable adventure.

Immediately after you land and return to our basecamp, our media team will help you transfer the GoPro footage to your smartphone. We use high-speed SD card readers that connect directly to most Android and iPhone devices for a seamless and instant transfer. Please ensure that you have at least 2GB to 4GB of storage space available on your phone to accommodate the high-definition 4K files. If for any reason the transfer cannot be completed on-site, we can upload the files to a secure cloud link and email it to you within 24 hours.

A reserve parachute is a secondary safety canopy packed into a specialized compartment within the tandem harness, designed for extreme emergency situations. While it is almost never needed, it acts as a 'backup' wing that can be manually deployed by the pilot if the main paraglider becomes uncontrollable. Our reserve parachutes are inspected and repacked every 6 months by certified professionals to ensure they are in perfect working order. Knowing that this multi-layered safety system is in place allows our passengers to fly with total peace of mind.

Yes, we provide a convenient shuttle service from Kamshet Railway Station to our basecamp for all our booked guests. Once you arrive at the station, simply give our coordinator a call, and our vehicle will be there to pick you up within 10-15 minutes. This service ensures that you don't have to worry about navigating local transport or finding the basecamp on your own. After your flying session and media transfer are complete, we will also drop you back at the station in time for your return train to Pune or Mumbai.

We welcome young adventurers as young as 6 years old, provided they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can sign the consent form. For children, we use specialized 'small-size' harnesses that ensure they are snugly and safely fitted into the tandem system. Children often make the best passengers as they are naturally fearless and absolutely love the unique perspective of the world from above. As long as the child is excited to fly and can follow simple instructions during the takeoff, they are ready for their first Kamshet adventure.

Paragliding is strictly a dry-weather sport because moisture can change the weight and aerodynamic properties of the fabric wing. If it rains during your scheduled slot, we will immediately pause operations and wait for the weather to clear and the equipment to dry completely. In the event of persistent rain, we will offer you a full reschedule or a complete refund of your booking amount. Fortunately, during the Kamshet flying season (Oct-June), rain is quite rare, allowing us to maintain a very high success rate for our scheduled flights.

While each tandem paraglider only carries one passenger and one pilot, we can launch multiple gliders in quick succession so you can fly alongside your friends. If the wind conditions allow, your pilots can even maneuver the wings to fly close to each other, allowing you to wave and take photos of each other mid-air. This 'formation flying' is a fantastic way to share the experience with a partner or friend while still having your own dedicated pilot for safety. Just let our ground coordinator know that you'd like to fly together when you arrive at the takeoff site.

Purchasing a full set of new paragliding equipment, which includes a certified wing, a harness, a reserve parachute, and a helmet, typically costs between ₹2,50,000 and ₹4,00,000. Many beginner pilots opt to buy high-quality used gear for their first year, which can reduce the initial investment significantly. It is vital to only buy equipment that has been inspected by a certified instructor to ensure its airworthiness. Our school also provides guidance on gear selection and can help you source equipment from reputable international brands that suit your specific flying style and weight.

Interestingly, many of our passengers who have a fear of heights (acrophobia) find paragliding to be a very comfortable and non-threatening experience. Unlike standing on the edge of a tall building, paragliding doesn't trigger the same 'drop' sensation because you are securely seated in a comfortable harness from the moment you leave the ground. The transition into the air is very gradual and smooth, and once you are soaring, the world below looks like a beautiful map rather than a terrifying drop. Our pilots are very experienced in helping nervous flyers feel at ease and will keep the flight very stable.

We recommend having a light, healthy meal about 1-2 hours before your flight to ensure you have enough energy without feeling overly full. Avoid heavy, greasy foods or excessive dairy, as the motion of the flight and the excitement can sometimes cause slight stomach discomfort. Staying hydrated is also very important, especially during the warmer months in Kamshet, so carry a bottle of water with you to the site. If you have a particularly sensitive stomach, a simple ginger candy or light snack can help keep you feeling perfectly fine throughout your aerial journey.

Tower Hill is located approximately 20 minutes from the Kamshet railway station and is one of the most famous paragliding sites in Western India. It is a large, plateau-like ridge that offers excellent conditions for both 'West' and 'East' wind directions, making it a very reliable site for tandem flights. The hilltop is accessible via a rugged trail that we navigate using our specialized 4x4 vehicles, saving you a long hike. From the top, you get an unobstructed view of the surrounding Sahyadri peaks, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, and the lush valleys below.

Our pilots and ground staff use a combination of digital anemometers (wind meters) and physical 'windsocks' to monitor wind speed and direction in real-time. We also observe the behavior of other gliders and look for natural signs like the movement of trees and birds to understand the air quality. If the wind becomes 'gusty' or exceeds our safety threshold of 25 km/h, we immediately suspend operations until the air stabilizes. This constant monitoring is a key part of our safety protocol, ensuring that we only launch when the conditions are perfect for a safe and enjoyable flight.

If we are forced to cancel your flight due to unsafe weather conditions, such as high winds or rain, we offer a 100% full refund of your booking amount. Alternatively, you can choose to keep your booking as a 'credit' and reschedule for any other day within the current flying season at no additional charge. We believe that you shouldn't have to pay for circumstances beyond your control, and our transparent refund policy reflects our commitment to customer satisfaction. Refund processing usually takes 5-7 business days to reflect back in your original payment method.

A standard tandem flight in Kamshet usually lasts between 15 and 20 minutes, which is the perfect duration to enjoy the views without feeling fatigued. If the thermal conditions are exceptionally good, your pilot may be able to extend the flight slightly to explore more of the ridge line. The total time you should set aside for the experience is about 2 to 3 hours, which includes the drive to the site, the safety briefing, and the post-flight media transfer. Every minute in the air is packed with adrenaline and beauty, making it feel like a lifetime of memories.

We believe that the joy of flight should be accessible to everyone, and we have successfully flown many passengers with varying degrees of physical disabilities. Our team can adapt the takeoff and landing procedures, often using extra ground staff to assist with the launch run if needed. However, since every case is unique, we request that you contact us in advance to discuss your specific needs and ensure we have the right team in place. As long as you can follow basic instructions and have a spirit of adventure, we will do our absolute best to get you into the Kamshet skies safely.

Paragliding in India is governed by the seasonal monsoon cycle and the thermal activity generated by the sun. From October to June, the atmosphere is relatively stable, and the sun provides enough heat to create 'thermals'—rising bubbles of warm air that gliders use to stay aloft. During the monsoon, the air is too turbulent, and the moisture makes the paragliding wings heavy and unsafe to fly. Kamshet’s unique geography provides a perfect micro-climate during the winter and summer months, making it the most reliable paragliding hub in the country.

In most of our premium tandem packages, the GoPro video and photography service is already included as a complimentary benefit. For our basic 'joyride' packages, it is available as an optional add-on that can be purchased at the time of booking or even at the site before you take off. This service includes a high-definition video of your entire flight and a series of wide-angle photos captured from a unique aerial perspective. It is the best way to preserve your memories and share your Kamshet paragliding adventure with friends and family on social media.

The moment of takeoff is often described as a magical transition where you go from running on the ground to suddenly being weightless in the air. As the wing catches the wind, you will feel a gentle upward pull on your harness, and after just a few steps, your feet will no longer touch the grass. There is no 'stomach-drop' sensation like you get on a roller coaster; instead, it feels like you are being lifted by a giant, invisible hand. Within seconds, the ground fades away, and you are peacefully gliding, replaced by a sense of calm and wonder at the expansive horizon.

Paragliding is actually a very relaxing activity for the body, as you are sitting in a reclined, cushioned harness that supports your entire weight. Aside from the short burst of energy needed for the takeoff run, the rest of the flight requires very little physical exertion from the passenger. You can sit comfortably, move your arms to take photos, and even chat with your pilot while you soar. It is far less physically demanding than activities like trekking or cycling, making it a great adventure for people of all fitness levels who want to experience the thrill of the outdoors.

You can bring your backpack to the takeoff site, but for safety reasons, you cannot wear it while you are flying. We will securely store your bags in our transport vehicle at the hilltop, and they will meet you at the landing zone after your flight is completed. If you have a small, compact camera or a phone, you can carry it in your pocket or a small waist pouch as long as it is secured with a tether. Our goal is to keep you as light and unencumbered as possible during the flight so you can focus on the experience and your safety.

Shelar Site and Tower Hill are the two primary flying locations in Kamshet, each used depending on the wind direction of the day. Tower Hill is a higher ridge used primarily for West and South-West winds, offering great height and long ridge-soaring opportunities. Shelar Site is a private hill that works best with East and North-East winds and is known for its gentle slopes and beautiful green surroundings, making it a favorite for students and beginners. We choose the site each morning from the latest weather forecast and observed wind conditions.

Every pilot in our team has a minimum of 5 to 10 years of active flying experience and holds advanced tandem certifications from recognized aviation bodies. They have performed thousands of flights in the Kamshet region and are intimately familiar with the local micro-climates and terrain. We believe that experience is the best safety tool, which is why we only employ full-time, professional pilots who treat paragliding as their primary craft. Your safety is in the hands of some of the most skilled and dedicated aviators in the Indian paragliding community.

While we always recommend booking in advance to guarantee your slot, we do occasionally accept same-day bookings if we have last-minute cancellations or extra pilot availability. If you are already in Kamshet or Lonavala and decide to fly on a whim, give us a call at +91 7666453090, and we will check the current schedule for you. Please note that weekend morning slots are almost always fully booked, so same-day availability is more likely on weekdays or in the late afternoon. It's always worth a call to see if we can get you into the sky!

Landing a paraglider is typically very soft and controlled, often feeling like stepping off a low stool. As we approach the landing zone, the pilot will 'flare' the wing, which acts like a brake to slow down our forward and downward speed significantly. Most of the time, you will simply land on your feet and walk a few steps to a stop. In very light wind conditions, the pilot may ask you to slide in on the reinforced 'bum-pad' of the harness, which is designed to absorb any impact and keep the landing perfectly comfortable and safe.

Yes, we have flown many senior citizens who are in good health and have a sense of adventure! As long as you are mobile enough to walk briskly for about 10-15 meters and have no major heart or joint issues, you can safely enjoy a tandem flight. Paragliding is much more about grace and wind-management than raw strength, making it a perfect 'bucket-list' activity for seniors. We often find that our older guests are the ones who appreciate the quiet beauty and the perspective of the landscape the most. It's never too late to fly!

Sunshine is only one part of the weather equation for paragliding; the most critical factor is the 'wind quality.' Even on a beautiful sunny day, the wind might be too strong, too gusty, or coming from the wrong direction to launch safely. We also watch out for 'overdevelopment'—large clouds that can create unpredictable suction or turbulence in the air. If our pilots see any of these invisible safety risks, they will postpone flying, even if the sky looks clear to the untrained eye. We thank you for trusting our professional judgment when it comes to your safety.

No, you do not need to be a swimmer because we do not actually fly directly 'over' the deep water in a way that would require swimming skills. Our flight paths are designed to stay within 'gliding distance' of the solid ground at all times, ensuring we can always reach a safe landing zone on the shore. While the views of the lake are a highlight of the Kamshet experience, your safety is managed through altitude and wind awareness, not your ability to swim. You can enjoy the shimmering blue water from above with total confidence and zero wetness!

Birds and paragliders actually get along very well! In Kamshet, we often share the sky with eagles and vultures who are also searching for thermals. Birds are incredibly agile and will naturally move out of the way of the paraglider long before any contact is made. In fact, pilots often follow birds because they are the best 'thermal detectors' in nature. A paraglider is a large, slow-moving object to a bird, so they view us as a non-threatening fellow glider rather than an obstacle. It is one of the few experiences where you truly feel like part of the avian world.