Getting a paragliding licence in France is simpler than most visiting pilots expect. In fact, no government licence is legally required to fly a paraglider in France. However, there are a few things you need to know before you launch.
Paragliders fall under ultra-light glider regulations managed by the DGAC — France’s civil aviation authority. As a result, no mandatory pilot qualification exists for solo flight. That said, France does require third-party liability insurance before you take off at any official FFVL site. This insurance is called the Responsabilité Civile Aéronautique (RCA).
In addition, there is a structured certification system managed by the FFVL (Fédération Française de Vol Libre). Think of it like the judo belt system — six colour-coded levels from white (total beginner) through to brown (competition-ready, tandem-qualified). The key milestones for visiting pilots are:
- Brevet Initial (Green level / IPPI 3) — autonomous solo flight on familiar sites in calm conditions
- Brevet de Pilote (Blue level / IPPI 4) — independent flying at new sites in varied conditions
If You Already Hold a Foreign Licence
You can fly in France without additional paperwork. However, you must carry valid third-party insurance. BHPA Club Pilot and above is accepted at French sites. Furthermore, USHPA P2 and above is also widely recognised.
Your IPPI card is worth keeping in your bag. In practice, nobody will ask for it day-to-day. However, in the event of an accident requiring an FFVL declaration, it may be requested.
Paragliding Licence France: What the French Federation System Looks Like (FFVL)
For pilots flying independently outside a school, the FFVL offers several annual licence options. If it’s your first year with the FFVL, the primo licencié rate applies automatically. As a result, it is significantly cheaper than the standard annual licence pratiquant.
If you plan to do multiple courses but won’t fly autonomously outside a school, consider the licence activité encadrée. All licences include third-party liability (RCA). Moreover, you can take them out online at federation.ffvl.fr.
Flying at Saint-Hilaire as a visitor pilot?
Visiting pilots flying with Prevol take out their insurance through the FFVL. Prevol is an FFVL-labelled school, which means FFVL insurance is mandatory for all students. First-time visitors can get help from instructors to set this up on arrival. If you’re flying independently outside a school structure, make sure your own cover includes RCA (Responsabilité Civile Aéronautique) before launching.