the complete tandem paragliding guide

Last updated: 18/08/2026

Tandem paragliding is one of the best ways to experience Chamonix and the Mont Blanc massif from above. Flying with a professional tandem pilot, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Chamonix Valley, glaciers and surrounding Alpine peaks without needing any previous paragliding experience.

AirChamonix offers several tandem experiences, from scenic Discovery flights to Freestyle, XXL and high-altitude flights from the Aiguille du Midi.

 

What is tandem paragliding in Chamonix?

Tandem paragliding is a flight for two people under the same paraglider: a professional pilot and a passenger. The pilot controls the wing, while the passenger sits comfortably in a harness and follows simple instructions for take-off and landing.

No previous paragliding experience is required.

AirChamonix is led by professional tandem pilot Richard Taylor, who has been flying tandem since 2014.

 

Where do tandem flights take off?

Tandem flights can take off from different sites in the Chamonix Valley, depending on the flight booked and the weather and wind conditions on the day.

For standard flights, passengers generally meet their pilot at the bottom of the lift serving the take-off site. Your booking confirmation provides the exact meeting instructions and a Google Maps link.

 

Chamonix Main take off points are:

Planpraz (Brevent ski area) 1000m above chamonix town this is the main take off in Summer and Winter

Plan de l'aiguille (mid station of the aiguille du midi) 1300m above chamonix town this is the take off we use most in the Spring and Autumn

Flegère Sitting 950m above the village of les Praz we only use this take off in the morning during the All Saints hollidays (late October - Early November)

 

The Aiguille du Midi flight is different, taking off at approximately 3,800 metres in the Mont Blanc massif.

The pilot chooses the most appropriate flying site according to the conditions.

 

What does a Chamonix paragliding flight cost?

AirChamonix currently offers flights from 135€ for kids to 379€ for the High Altitude Aiguille du midi flight. The most typical flight is our discovery flights at 149€

• Kids15–20 min €135
• Discovery15–20 min €149
• Freestyle15–20 min€179
• XXL45–60 min €289
• Aiguille du Midi40–60 min€379

Prices may change, so check the current booking page when making your reservation.

For flights requiring a lift, the lift ticket is not included in the flight price.

 

How long is a tandem flight?

Air Chamonix will indicate an approximate flight time and a total activity time. Flight time depends on the experience you choose, the weather conditions and your flight preferences:

Discovery:  Flight time 15–20 minutes Total time 60 minutes

Kids: Flight time 15–20 minutes Total time 60 minutes

Freestyle: aFlight time 15–20 minutes Total time 60 minutes

XXL: Flight time 45–60 minutes Total time 120 minutes

Aiguille du Midi: Flight time 40-60 minutes Total time 180 minutes

 

The total activity takes longer because it includes meeting the pilot, preparing the equipment, reaching take-off and returning after landing.

Actual flight times can vary according to the weather and flying conditions.

 

What is the best time of day to fly?

There is no single best time for every passenger.

For a calmer, smoother experience, morning flights can be a good choice. AirChamonix particularly recommends an early flight for passengers concerned about motion sickness, as thermal activity can increase as the day warms up.

If you are interested in longer or more dynamic flying, later conditions can sometimes be more suitable.

Your pilot will choose the appropriate time and flying site according to the conditions and lift openings.

 

Can beginners paraglide in Chamonix?

Yes. Tandem paragliding is suitable for complete beginners.

You do not need a licence or previous experience. Your pilot controls the paraglider and gives you simple instructions for take-off and landing.

For a first flight, the Discovery Flight is a good choice if you want to concentrate on the scenery and enjoy a gentle introduction to paragliding.

Passengers should be able to run approximately 30 metres for take-off.

 

Can children paraglide?

Yes. Children can fly tandem with AirChamonix from 5 years old, subject to the appropriate physical requirements and suitable weather conditions.

The Kids Flight is designed for children aged approximately 5–12 and lasts around 15–20 minutes in the air.

Children should be comfortable following the pilot's instructions and participating willingly in the take-off.

 

Is tandem paragliding safe?

Tandem paragliding is an adventure sport and, like any mountain activity, involves inherent risks. Safety depends on professional pilot judgement, appropriate equipment, suitable weather and following instructions.

AirChamonix provides the necessary safety equipment, including helmets, and pilots assess conditions before every flight.

If conditions are unsuitable, the flight should be postponed. Safety always takes priority over completing the flight.

 

What happens if the weather is bad?

Paragliding depends on suitable wind, visibility and weather conditions. Strong wind, rain, snow or other unsuitable conditions can prevent a flight from operating.

If your flight cannot safely take place, AirChamonix will work with you to reschedule it according to its booking conditions.

For this reason, it is strongly recommended to book your flight towards the beginning of your stay in Chamonix. This gives you more flexibility if the weather requires a change of date.

If we are unable to find a suitable time to reschedule and have to cancel the flight due to adverse weather then you will receive a full refund of the flight cost.

 

What should I wear?

Dress for the conditions at take-off and in the air. Paragliding can feel cooler than the valley because of the airflow.

Summer

Long trousers

Trainers or lightweight hiking shoes

A fleece or sweatshirt

A windproof jacket

Sunglasses

 

Winter

Dress as you would for skiing, with:

Warm clothing

Gloves

Appropriate winter or après-ski boots

Sunglasses or ski goggles

Do not wear ski boots.

AirChamonix provides the necessary safety equipment, including a helmet. Avoid bringing a rucksack on the flight.

 

How much do I need to weigh?

AirChamonix asks passengers weighing more than 90 kg / 200 lb / 14.5 stone to contact the team before booking.

The appropriate equipment and pilot need to be selected according to the passenger and the conditions. If you are close to the limit, contact AirChamonix before booking rather than assuming the flight will be possible.

 

Can I paraglide if I'm afraid of heights?

Yes. Many people who are nervous about heights find tandem paragliding more comfortable than expected.

You are seated securely in a harness rather than standing on a high ledge. Once airborne, the experience can feel very different from being at the edge of a cliff or tall building.

Tell your pilot if you are nervous. They can explain the process and help you feel comfortable.

If you are particularly apprehensive, a calm Discovery flight is a good place to start.

 

Can I take photos and videos?

Photography and video can be part of the experience, AirChamonix offers a video/photo option for 30€ where we use a GoPro action camera with a selfie stick to film you and take phots of you during the flight which is then uploaded to your mobile phone after landing. You are welcome to use your own camera but it must be be secured, and you should never allow a camera or phone to interfere with your ability to follow the pilot's instructions. Please ask your pilot before take-off.

 

Which flight should I choose?

 

Whichever flight you choose, tandem paragliding offers a unique way to experience Chamonix and the Mont Blanc landscape from above. and if when speaking with your pilot we find you haven't selected the right flight we will always tailor the flight to you.

 

Discovery – ideal for a first flight

The best choice for passengers who want a scenic introduction to tandem paragliding. but we can throw in a little adrenaline at the end if you wish.

15–20 minutes flying time

Suitable for beginners

Scenic experience

From €149

 

Freestyle – best for adrenaline

The Freestyle Flight is designed for passengers who want a more dynamic experience, with manoeuvres such as wingovers, spirals and dives when conditions and the passenger's preference allow.

15–20 minutes flying time

More dynamic flying

From €179

It is not the best choice if you are prone to motion sickness or prefer a very gentle flight.

 

XXL – best for maximum flying time

The XXL Flight gives you considerably more time in the air.

45–60 minutes flying time

More time to explore the Chamonix landscape

Opportunities for thermal and dynamic flying depending on conditions

From €289

 

Aiguille du Midi – the ultimate Alpine experience

The Aiguille du Midi Flight combines high-mountain scenery with tandem paragliding.

Take-off at approximately 3,842 metres

40–60 minutes flying time

Around three hours for the complete activity

From €379

 

The lift ticket is not included in the flight price.

 

Paragliding from the Aiguille du Midi

The Aiguille du Midi rises to approximately 3,842 metres above sea level in the Mont Blanc massif.

An Aiguille du Midi tandem flight is a particularly spectacular experience, beginning high above the Chamonix Valley and providing views of glaciers, peaks and the surrounding high mountains.

Because the take-off is at high altitude and conditions can be more demanding, the flight requires suitable weather and it is common to have to reschedule the flight on multiple ocasions to find a suitable weather window.  The take off is on a glacier at high altitude and the condition of this must also be taken in to account, ultimately it is the pilot and mountain guide who make the final decision about whether the flight can operate safely.

 

How do I get to the meeting point?

 

The exact meeting point depends on your flight and the take-off site. Your booking confirmation contains an attchemrnt (tickets.pdf) the relevant meeting instructions and Google Maps location.

Always check your confirmation before travelling to the flight or contact us to be sure, we typically send a reminder of the meeting point and flights instructions the day before your flight.

If you are at all unsure of where to meet please do not hesitate to contact us.

 

It is also very important that we can contact you on the day of your flight via telephone or WhatsApp.

 

How far in advance should I book?

Booking early is recommended (3 to 5 days in advance) especially during busy summer and winter periods.

More importantly, try to schedule your flight near the beginning of your stay. Mountain weather can change quickly, and having several days available gives you greater flexibility if your flight needs to be rescheduled.

 

Gift Vouchers

For gift vouchers, AirChamonix asks customers to make contact at least 72 hours before the flight to arrange an appointment.

 

Which Chamonix tandem flight is right for me?

 

If you are not sure which experience to choose, this is a simple guide:

 

First time or scenic experience?
Choose Discovery.

Want more adrenaline?
Choose Freestyle.

Want to spend as long as possible in the air?
Choose XXL.

Want an exceptional high-altitude Alpine experience?
Choose Aiguille du Midi.

Flying with a child?
Choose the Kids Flight.

 

Whichever flight you choose, tandem paragliding offers a unique way to experience Chamonix and the Mont Blanc landscape from above.