Background: Why new regulations are necessary
Powered paragliders and their trike variants are among the lightest motorised aircraft available. They are becoming increasingly popular - both with beginners and experienced air sports enthusiasts who are looking for a flying experience with minimal technology. At the same time, the increasing use of modern materials, hybrid drives and new designs means that existing standards need to be adapted.
The previously valid requirements dated back to 2005. The version that has now been published not only takes into account new Technological developmentsbut also Harmonisation under European law (e.g. through Regulation (EU) 2018/1139) and gives manufacturers, testing institutions and pilots more clarity in the assessment and authorisation of their devices.
Structure of the new airworthiness requirements
The new regulations are divided into two central parts:
- Part A - General part:
Contains basic provisions, definitions of terms, design specifications and requirements for operating instructions. - Part B - Special Part:
Detailed technical verifications for components such as supporting structures, harnesses, engines, rescue systems, hybrid drives and safety equipment. Also includes conformity and compatibility certificates.
A List of changes documents specifically what has changed compared to the previous version - for example, the blanket allowance of 15 kg for rescue systems for single-seaters.
Overview of key technical requirements
1. definition and categorisation
A clear distinction is made between three types:
- Category 2.1: Paraglider with motor (combined operation)
- Freely selectable surface load
- In addition to the classic paraglider test, a supplementary test of the propulsion system is carried out
- Combination of drive / glider / harness must be verified
- Category 2.2: Paramotor glider (pure motorised operation)
- Surface load > 4.5 kg/m²
- No non-motorised operation permitted
- Complete type testing required for all components
- Category 2.3: Paramotor trike (with landing gear)
- Surface load > 6 kg/m²
- Only authorised in conjunction with a trike
- Different requirements depending on the authorisation requirement (LuftVZO §1 Para. 1 No. 7 vs. §1 Para. 4)
2. proof of combination
A central element is the Checking the airworthiness of the combination from:
- Supporting structure (paraglider or wing)
- Drive unit
- Harness (with attachment points)
Parameters such as flight behaviour, centre of gravity, mass distribution, harness spacing and emergency behaviour must be documented. Manufacturers can either carry out a full type test or certify airworthiness by Compatible individual tests and manufacturer's declarations.
3. drive unit and rescue system
Special requirements apply:
- Strength and vibration behaviour of the drive unit
- Installation and verification of a suitable rescue systemwhich is not only available, but also effective - even with asymmetrical load distribution or trikes
- Hybrid drives receive their own audit trails and conformity guidelines
4. safety requirements
In addition to technical suitability, the Operating instructions, Checklists, Warning markings, Emergency shutdown devices and the Access to security-relevant information a central role.
European categorisation and information obligations
The publication is in accordance with Directive (EU) 2015/1535, which regulates the information procedure for new technical regulations within the EU and ensures that there are no barriers to trade. The requirements have been embedded in German aviation law, but their core elements are also comprehensible for other EASA member states.
What does this mean for manufacturers and pilots?
For manufacturers:
- New type approvals must be based on the updated requirements
- Systems that are already certified are not affected by the change. not automatically affectedhowever, a reassessment may be necessary in the event of changes
- Combinations of existing components must be supplemented by verifications
For pilots:
- When purchasing or converting a paramotor glider, greater attention must be paid to the conformity of the individual components to respect
- The new requirements increase the Flight safetybut also the documentation obligation
- Training providers should adapt their documentation and clarify new categories and definitions
Conclusion
With the new airworthiness requirements for paramotor gliders and trikes, the German Federal Aviation Authority is bringing the regulatory basis for these air sports devices up to date. The requirements promote safety, create transparency for manufacturers and offer pilots a solid technical framework - without overly restricting the flexibility of these simple but fascinating aircraft.
Source references:
NFL (the link requires a subscription to Eisenschmidt)