Paragliding in Armenia
Paragliding in Armenia has developed in the past few years. Armenia has favorable conditions both for independent and tandem flights. Armenia is very nice destination for para-tourism because there are 300 sunny days in a year and planning paragliding holidays in Armenia have perfect chances to have good flyable weather.[1] Even there is a hostel with name Glide in Yerevan, owner is Paraglider and it is a good home for foreign paragliders.[2] Due to the height of the Armenian highland( which is also known as the central part of the Caucasus Mountains), the country has various micro climates which creates’ perfect circumstances for paragliding. The first paragliding flights were held by the members of “Small Aviation Club of Armenia” in 1996. Later, in 2008 was founded The Armenian Paragliding Sport Federation, which members organize paragliding teaching courses nowadays.[3] In Armenia flying season is quite long (the flights are mostly held from may until November). Tandem and free flights are mostly held on the territory of Atis, Aparan and nearby Lake Sevan. Depending on the weather conditions the duration of the flight can last from 7 minutes to 15-20, which mostly build upon the passenger’s desire.