Hang Gliding

How difficult is Hang Gliding?

Hang gliding is a manageable and enjoyable sport for all ages, especially when guided by expertly trained instructors who ensure a safe experience. Both takeoff and landing are gentle, designed to make beginners feel comfortable. With a low risk rating and stringent safety protocols, hang gliding offers a thrilling yet secure adventure. Learn more. 

Can you Hang Glide with no experience?

Yes, you can absolutely hang glide with no experience! Kitty Hawk Kites offers beginner classes with experienced and highly trained instructors to guide you every step of the way. It’s a safe and exhilarating adventure, perfect for first-timers.

Hang Gliding vs Paragliding

Hang gliding features a lightweight, non-motorized glider with a rigid frame, launched from hills, cliffs, or dunes offering faster speeds and longer flights. Paragliding uses a parachute-like canopy and harness, allowing easy launches by running off slopes and utilizing thermal currents. Both provide thrilling aerial adventures and is ideal for enthusiasts seeking portability and ease of launch.

Accessibility Statement:

We are committed to making our activities as accessible as possible. While some activities may have limitations, we’re happy to work with you to explore accommodations. For assistance or questions, please contact us at (252) 441-4124.

Hang gliding is a manageable and enjoyable sport for all ages, especially when guided by expertly trained instructors who ensure a safe experience. Both takeoff and landing are gentle, designed to make beginners feel comfortable. With a low risk rating and stringent safety protocols, hang gliding offers a thrilling yet secure adventure. Learn more. 

The weather in the Outer Banks is both our friend and our foe. More often than not the weather provides fantastic flying conditions but, in the chance it doesn’t, we have you covered! Our team of instructors watch the weather very closely to ensure safety out on the dunes and in the air. Our team will always contact you if changes need to be made to your reservation. For more detail please refer to our weather related cancellation policy

Yes—when done with care, hang gliding is a safe and rewarding adventure. Like any outdoor activity, there are risks involved, but these are significantly minimized through modern equipment, professional instruction, and smart decision-making.

At Kitty Hawk Kites, we specialize in dune hang gliding at Jockey’s Ridge—one of the safest and most forgiving training environments in the world. The soft sand, steady winds, and gentle slopes of the Outer Banks provide the perfect setting for beginners to learn with confidence and ease.

Our instructors are certified, highly trained, and experienced in guiding students every step of the way, from ground handling to first solo flights. For those looking to take their skills to the next level at higher altitudes, we recommend continuing your training with experienced pilots and certified flight schools that follow the rigorous safety standards established by the United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (USHPA).

With the right guidance, the right conditions, and a commitment to safety, hang gliding is not only safe—it’s one of the most exhilarating ways to experience flight.

One of the best places to go hang gliding is in the Outer Banks, thanks to the soft sands and steady winds at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, which make it an ideal spot for beginners. For those seeking higher altitude flights, the Kitty Hawk Kites Hang Gliding Flight Park in Currituck offers tandem experiences up to 2,000 feet or a mile high flight.

If you’re flying on the sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge, plan for warm and sunny conditions. We recommend light, breathable clothing like a T-shirt and athletic shorts. Closed-toe shoes or sand socks are ideal to protect your feet from the hot sand and help with footing during takeoff and landing. Don’t forget to bring water and stay hydrated—it’s easy to work up a sweat while you’re out having fun on the dunes!

For tandem hang gliding, where you’ll be flying at higher altitudes, the temperature and wind chill can feel much cooler. We suggest wearing comfortable layers—a sweatshirt or light jacket works great. Be sure to tuck in any loose strings or clothing items, and keep jewelry to a minimum. Footwear is optional, but many flyers go barefoot or wear secure shoes they don’t mind kicking off before takeoff.

Whether you’re gliding over the dunes or soaring sky-high, dressing smart will help you feel confident and comfortable from takeoff to touchdown!