A paragliding licence (or paragliding license) is your first official step towards flying solo. In Turkey, paragliding certification follows the THK (Turkish Aeronautical Association) syllabus, with levels P2, P3, P4 and P5. Here is how to get a paragliding licence in Turkey, step by step, from a school that has been training pilots since 2005.
1. Check the Requirements
- At least 16 years old (under 18s need notarised parental consent)
- Between 1.50 and 2.00 m tall and between 45 and 120 kg
- No medical condition that prevents flying
- Reasonable fitness for an outdoor sport
You do not need to be an athlete. If you can run a few steps holding a wing, you can learn.
2. Prepare Your Documents
- ID card or passport
- A medical note confirming you are fit to paraglide
- Flight accident insurance
- Passport photos
- Depending on your situation, the THK may also ask for a criminal record certificate (18+), blood group document and education certificate. We tell you exactly what applies to you before the course.
3. Take the P2 Beginner Paragliding Course
The P2 course lasts at least 7 flying days, depending on group size and weather. Theory covers equipment, aerodynamics, meteorology, wing control, air law and emergency procedures. Ground handling teaches you to prepare, inflate and control the wing overhead and to run a clean launch. We provide the wing, harness, reserve, helmet and radio.
4. Pass the Exam and Fly
After theory and ground work there is a written exam with a 75 percent pass mark. Then you make 7-10 instructed flights from 60-350 m training hills, in wind up to 20 km/h, guided by radio.
5. Receive Your THK Paragliding Certificate
Students who complete the flights to the instructor's satisfaction receive the THK paragliding certificate and pilot licence at P2 beginner pilot level.
6. Progress to P3, P4 and P5
- P3 intermediate: at least 30 flying days, 50 flights and 12 hours airtime (minimum 5 h soaring, 2 h thermal), basic emergency drills.
- P4 pilot: 30 days, at least 30 flights and 10 hours thermal flying, GPS logged, on your own equipment.
- P5 advanced pilot: 20 days, after 10 h of logged flying post P4 and age 18+, at least 90 km cross country distance in 2-4 flights.
The most important extra training on the way is an SIV course.
Common Mistakes New Pilots Make
- Cutting ground handling short. Your flying is only as good as your wing control on the ground.
- Buying a wing above your level. Your first wing should be EN-A or a low EN-B.
- Ignoring meteorology. Reading wind, thermals and clouds matters as much as flying skill.
See all course levels, requirements and our instructors on the paragliding course page. Want to feel it first? Start with a tandem paragliding flight in Oludeniz.
Paragliding Course FAQ
How do I get a paragliding licence in Turkey?
Join a beginner (P2) course that follows the THK syllabus. After theory, ground handling and a written exam with a 75 percent pass mark, you make 7-10 instructed flights from 60-350 m training hills. Students who pass receive the THK paragliding certificate and pilot licence. The next levels are P3, P4 and P5.
How long does it take to learn paragliding?
The P2 beginner course takes at least 7 flying days depending on group size and weather. The P3 course, where you learn soaring and thermalling, takes at least 30 flying days. Becoming a confident independent pilot usually takes a season of regular flying.
Is there an age or weight limit for paragliding lessons?
For the P2 course you must be at least 16, between 1.50 and 2.00 m tall and between 45 and 120 kg. Under 18s need notarised parental consent. The P5 advanced course requires age 18 or over.
Do I need my own paragliding equipment?
No. On P2 and P3 courses we provide the wing, harness, reserve parachute, helmet and radio. On P4, P5 and SIV courses pilots fly their own equipment, and our instructor can advise you on choosing a suitable wing.
Are the courses taught in English?
Yes, we teach in English and Turkish. Foreign pilots who already hold a licence can join our SIV course or guided Babadag adaptation flights with their logbook and licence.