Gauteng School-Apex Grasslands

Gauteng School-Apex Grasslands

Riaan Struwig, a Grade A Chief Flight Instructor at Apex Adventures, brings over 15 years of experience as an aviator and instructor. He is proud to be the first Grade A PPG/PPT/PPC instructor in South Africa to hold National Protea colors in the sport. Having trained more than 200 students, Riaan leverages his extensive knowledge and global experience to ensure a safe and enjoyable training environment.

At Apex Gauteng, located in Centurion just off the R55 in Sunderland Ridge, southwest of Zwartkop Raceway, students have the opportunity to experience the freedom of flight and truly “surf the sky.” Our location is perfect for those looking to balance work and recreation.

Apex Gauteng operates from Wednesday to Sunday, offering training sessions primarily in the afternoons during the week and in both mornings and afternoons on weekends. Our team consists of two full-time instructors and two assistant instructors, ensuring that each student receives the best possible attention and training to get them in the air.

Apex Adventures is the largest Designated Training Organization (DTO) in South Africa for all SAHPA disciplines, including paragliding, powered paragliding, powered trike, and powered parachute.

Apex Gauteng provides several options to get started:

On School Equipment: (Click on red Option Hyperlink)

• Option 1: Intro Training Course – R14,400 (on school equipment, upgradeable to full course)
• Option 1/2: Upgrade to Full Course from Intro – R17,600 (all on school equipment)
• Option 3: Full Course from Start to Finish, Save 10% – R28,800 (all on school equipment)

On Own Equipment (must be airworthy): (Click on red Option Hyperlink)

• Option 4: Full Course on Powered Paraglider Trike – R24,000 (own equipment)
• Option 5: Intro Training Course – R11,400 (on own wing, upgradeable to full course)
• Option 5/6: Upgrade to Full Course from Intro – R12,600 (own equipment)
• Option 7: Full Course from Start to Finish, Save 10% – R21,600 (own equipment)

Are you ready to embark on an exciting adventure in the skies? If so, powered paragliding, also known as paramotoring or PPG, might be just the activity for you!

Imagine strapping on a motor to your back and taking off into the open sky using a paraglider. That’s precisely what paramotoring is all about! Unlike traditional paragliding, powered paragliding doesn’t require any assistance or a hilltop to launch from. You can take off from level ground in still air, all on your own.

However, before you can take to the skies, it’s essential to note that in many countries, including South Africa, powered paragliding is regulated and requires a license. Safety is paramount, and flying low and slow comes with its unique risks. Still, the freedom, minimal equipment and maintenance costs, and portability make this form of flying incredibly appealing.

As a powered paraglider, you can fly at speeds between 25 and 80 km/h and reach altitudes of up to 18,000+ ft (7400 m). However, most flying is done under 500 ft (150 m) AGL (above ground level). Since the paramotor has a slow forward speed and a soft wing, it’s not safe in high winds, turbulence, or intense thermal activity. Therefore, it’s crucial to check weather conditions before takeoff.

To launch, the pilot supports the paramotor’s weight, typically between 18 and 40 kg, during takeoff. After a brief run of about 10 feet or 3 meters, the wing lifts the motor and the pilot off the ground. Once in the air, the pilot sits suspended beneath the inflated paraglider wing like a pendulum, with control available using brake toggles for roll and a hand-held throttle for pitch.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines the thrill of flying with the freedom of open skies, then paramotoring might be just the activity for you. So why wait? Take the first step and get started on your powered paragliding adventure today!