Hang gliders (not hand gliders!) are among the most recognized sport aircraft. Almost all are ultralights, under the Federal Aviation Regulations. A hang glider is a lightweight glider, usually built from an aluminum frame with a dacron covering. The pilot "hangs" from the main center support of the glider, and controls the up and down pitch and left or right turns by shifting his body weight fore and aft, and side to side.

Modern hang gliders are very light (under eighty pounds) yet very strong and very efficient. They can stay aloft for hours in thermal or ridge lift. Since the pilot lies prone in a comfortable harness, it is a relaxing yet exhilarating flying experience.

If you're interested in hang gliding, instruction is essential. Perhaps more than any other sport aircraft, the hang glider requires skill and finesse. One of the advantages available to potential hang glider pilots is the availability of tandem (two-place) hang gliders for instruction. Towed aloft by a winch or an ultralight, a student and instructor can fly together in special, heavy-duty gliders which have substantially reduced the learning time for hang glider pilots.

Hang gliders fold up into relatively compact packages, but plan on equipping your car with special racks to transport your wing. Although winch towing is an option in the flatlands, the best flying is in coastal or mountainous areas. For more information, contact the United States Hang Gliding Association (USHGA).