Air sports

Air Sports

Air sports encompass a variety of aerial activities that involve the use of aircraft or other devices to engage in recreational or competitive flying. These sports are enjoyed by enthusiasts around the world and can range from the serene experience of gliding to the adrenaline-pumping thrill of skydiving.

Types of Air Sports

Air sports can be broadly categorized into several types, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal:

Paragliding

Paragliding is a recreational and competitive flying sport where the pilot sits in a harness suspended below a fabric wing. The shape of the wing is maintained by the suspension lines, the pressure of air entering vents in the front of the wing, and the aerodynamic forces of the air flowing over the outside.

Hang Gliding

Hang gliding involves flying a light, non-motorized, foot-launched heavier-than-air aircraft called a hang glider. The pilot is suspended from the glider's frame and controls the aircraft by shifting their body weight.

Skydiving

Skydiving is a sport in which participants exit an aircraft and return to earth with the aid of gravity, then slow down during the last part of the descent by using a parachute. It is often performed as a recreational activity and a competitive sport.

Ballooning

Ballooning involves flying hot air balloons, which are large balloons filled with heated air. The pilot controls the ascent and descent by adjusting the temperature of the air inside the balloon.

Gliding

Gliding is a sport where pilots fly unpowered aircraft known as gliders or sailplanes. Gliders are launched by winch or aerotow and can stay airborne for extended periods by exploiting rising air currents.

Aerobatics

Aerobatics is the practice of flying maneuvers involving aircraft attitudes that are not used in normal flight. Aerobatic flying is performed in airplanes and gliders for training, recreation, entertainment, and sport.

Safety in Air Sports

Safety is a paramount concern in air sports. Participants must adhere to strict safety guidelines and regulations to minimize risks. This includes using appropriate safety gear, undergoing proper training, and maintaining equipment.

Organizations and Competitions

Several organizations govern air sports and organize competitions worldwide. The Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) is the world governing body for air sports and aeronautical world records.

See Also

• Aviation
• Extreme sports
• Outdoor recreation

References

• Fédération Aéronautique Internationale. "About FAI." Retrieved from [1]
• British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association. "What is Hang Gliding?" Retrieved from [2]

External Links

• Fédération Aéronautique Internationale
• United States Parachute Association