🪂APPI Legislation Summary (Airspace, Rules, Priorities, Licensing)

A concise, web‑ready explanation for trainees and instructors

1. Airspace Structure (ICAO Standards)

Airspace is divided into 3‑dimensional segments with different rules. Always check national rules and local site rules, as they can override international standards. [7-

Uncontrolled Airspace (Classes F–G)

• F: Advisory service only; IFR separation “as practical.”

• G: No ATC separation. VFR permitted; basic information provided if requested.
   

Controlled Airspace (Classes A–E)

🪂2. Controlled Airspace Details

Controlled airspace is used around airports and busy flight routes.
Includes:

• CTR (Control Traffic Region): Ground → defined altitude

• TMA/TCA (Terminal Maneuvering Area): above CTR

• Airways (AWY): structured IFR routes
   

Examples:

• Class C: Requires radio + transponder; includes upper airspace (e.g., above FL195).

• Class D: Requires radio + clearance; often between FL130–FL195 near mountains.

• Class E: VFR allowed with minimum visibility (5 km to FL100, 8 km above).
   

3. Uncontrolled Airspace (Class G)

• VFR permitted.

• Minimum visibility: 1.5 km, with continuous ground reference.

• Extends up to ~600 m AGL unless overridden by CTR/TMA.
   

4. Restricted, Prohibited, and Hazardous Areas

Airspace may have temporary or permanent limitations:

• Restricted Areas – flight allowed only under specific rules (e.g., near airports).

• Prohibited Areas – no flight allowed during designated times.

• Hazardous Areas – high traffic or dangerous activity (e.g., glider gatherings).
  Types include:

• Free flight areas with relaxed cloud–distance minima.

• “Cloud flying” zones for specially equipped gliders (not paragliders).

• Military zones.
   

5. VFR (Visual Flight Rules) for Paragliders

Paragliding always operates under VFR. Requirements:

Below 900 m / FL30

• Visibility: 1.5 km

• Permanent ground view required
   

Above 900 m

• Must remain 1.5 km horizontally and 300 m vertically away from clouds

• If limiting visibility: minimum 5 km
   

In Free Flight Areas

• Cloud clearance can be reduced to:

  • 100 m horizontal

  • 50 m vertical
     

6. Priority & Right‑of‑Way Rules (Avoiding Collisions)

Rule #1: AVOID COLLISION — safety over legal priority.
 

General Free-Flight Priority Rules

• Crossing paths → Pilot on the right has priority.

• Head‑on → Both pilots turn right.

• Ridge Soaring → Pilot with the ridge on their right has priority.

• Overtaking → Allowed on either side with safe clearance.

• Converging paths → Right-hand pilot has priority.

• Thermalling →

  • All pilots circle in the same direction as the highest pilot.

  • Faster‑climbing pilots must widen their turn and overtake from outside.

• Landing → Lower pilot has priority.
   

Aircraft Category Priority

The least maneuverable aircraft always has priority.
Paragliders, hang gliders, and sailplanes are grouped similarly; within the group, more powerful aircraft give way.
Always give way to an aircraft in distress.
 

7. Licensing Requirements

Rules vary by country. Always check with a local school.

• Some countries require pilot license and/or insurance to fly legally.

• In some regions APPI is recognized as an official system.

• If not, APPI certification does not automatically grant flying rights.

• Home - Fivl  For Visiting Pilot in Italy - Contact +973 32233327

• Fédération Belge de Paramoteur BPMF | FBPM  For Visiting Pilot in Belgium - Contact +973 32233327
   

8. APPI Examinations & Certifications

Theory Exam

• Supervised by APPI instructor

• 800+ questions across: Aerodynamics, Weather, Legislation, Equipment, Technique, Tandem
  Practical Exam

• Performed under APPI instructor after passing theory.
  Equivalence

Experienced pilots/instructors may obtain APPI certification by equivalence if their federation is recognized.
Insurance

APPI strongly recommends pilots to hold paragliding insurance.
In the EU, third‑party liability insurance is mandatory for schools and tandem pilots.