Do you launch hang gliders and paragliders by jumping off a Cliff?
No. Hang gliders and paragliders are launched into wind by running foward until the lift created by the airflow over the wing or canopy is sufficient to support the combined weight of the glider and pilot. This type of take-off is known as a hill launch. Its also possible to tow launch a hang glider or paraglider using a long line and a static winch. The glider is simply towed into the air as the winch revolves, and takes in the line. At an appropriate point the pilot then releases the tow line, and flys off. Hang gliders can also be towed into the air by slow flying ultralight powered aircraft. Because of the higher launch speed of this technique the hang glider pilot usually has to take-off in a prone position using a wheeled dolly. As lift is generated the pilot and hang glider rise upwards, leaving the dolly behind. Using this technique it is possible to climb to several thousand feet above take-off before releasing the tow line.
