South African Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association (SAHPA)

Contact Details

012 668 3186
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South African Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SAHPA): Regulating Free-Flight Sports in South Africa

The South African Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SAHPA) is the official regulatory body for all non-powered free-flight activities in South Africa, including paragliding, hang gliding, powered paragliding (PPG), powered hang gliding (PHG), and para-trike flying. Operating under the authority of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), SAHPA ensures that these exhilarating aerial sports are practiced safely, responsibly, and in compliance with national aviation regulations.

SAHPA oversees the licensing, training, and certification of pilots and instructors, maintaining high standards through accredited flight schools and strict safety protocols. It plays a key role in inspecting launch and landing sites, monitoring airspace usage, and guiding new developments in the sport across the country.

Through affiliation with SACAA, SAHPA also contributes to the drafting of regulatory frameworks, ensuring that South Africa’s free-flight community is aligned with global best practices. Pilots licensed through SAHPA receive credentials that are internationally recognized, opening the skies for travel and cross-border flying opportunities.

Beyond regulation, SAHPA fosters a vibrant flying community by supporting competitions, record attempts, and recreational events, while promoting environmental stewardship and site preservation. It actively encourages pilot development through mentorship programs, safety seminars, and continuous skills training.

SAHPA's mission is not only to keep South African skies safe for all air users, but also to grow awareness and participation in hang gliding and paragliding—sports that offer unmatched freedom and breathtaking perspectives of the country's diverse landscapes.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to start your flying journey or an experienced pilot seeking a well-regulated community, SAHPA provides the structure, support, and safety you need.

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Contact Details

012 668 3186
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
South African Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SAHPA): Regulating Free-Flight Sports in South Africa

The South African Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SAHPA) is the official regulatory body for all non-powered free-flight activities in South Africa, including paragliding, hang gliding, powered paragliding (PPG), powered hang gliding (PHG), and para-trike flying. Operating under the authority of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), SAHPA ensures that these exhilarating aerial sports are practiced safely, responsibly, and in compliance with national aviation regulations.

SAHPA oversees the licensing, training, and certification of pilots and instructors, maintaining high standards through accredited flight schools and strict safety protocols. It plays a key role in inspecting launch and landing sites, monitoring airspace usage, and guiding new developments in the sport across the country.

Through affiliation with SACAA, SAHPA also contributes to the drafting of regulatory frameworks, ensuring that South Africa’s free-flight community is aligned with global best practices. Pilots licensed through SAHPA receive credentials that are internationally recognized, opening the skies for travel and cross-border flying opportunities.

Beyond regulation, SAHPA fosters a vibrant flying community by supporting competitions, record attempts, and recreational events, while promoting environmental stewardship and site preservation. It actively encourages pilot development through mentorship programs, safety seminars, and continuous skills training.

SAHPA's mission is not only to keep South African skies safe for all air users, but also to grow awareness and participation in hang gliding and paragliding—sports that offer unmatched freedom and breathtaking perspectives of the country's diverse landscapes.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to start your flying journey or an experienced pilot seeking a well-regulated community, SAHPA provides the structure, support, and safety you need.