Paragliding and hang-gliding pilot project takes off in Banff National Park

A pilot project taking flight in Banff National Park gives paragliders and hang gliders new freedom to spread wings over the iconic landscape.

A new pilot project is underway in Banff National Park and it’s sent the spirits of many Albertans soaring.

Paraglider and hang glider pilots now have new freedoms in the mountain park as the rules have been changed to allow launching and landing within park boundaries.

Enthusiasts say it offers a unique opportunity to see the landscape.

“To see these mountains and these spaces from the air – it’s something special,” said Will Gadd, a Canmore paraglider who’s worked for 15 years to make this dream come alive.

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Up until May, only flying over Banff National Park was allowed and launching and landing was only allowed under emergency conditions.

Gadd’s pilot project with Parks Canada will allow pilots more freedoms.

“What the Banff National Park plan gives us is a route east from Golden (B.C.). and a route north from Canmore,” said Robert Maguire, director for the Alberta Hang-gliding and Paragliding Association.

“It allows us so much more freedom where we’re allowed to fly and what we’re allowed to see.”

There are strict guidelines for the project, such as pilot are limited to non-motorized gliders and there are specific locations where they can launch and land – ski hills, the Banff townsite, campgrounds and some environmentally sensitive areas are off limits.

Gadd is hopeful the project will be a success by bringing more pilots to enjoy the region.

“Imagine looking down and the scenery on Highway 1 and it’s quiet,” he said.

“I’m really excited to share my sport with the world. I really love it and I think other people will too.”

To legally fly in Banff National Park, pilots must hold membership with the Hang-gliding and Paragliding Association of Canada, carry proof of that membership while flying and log all of their activity for Parks Canada.