A tandem flight over Lake Wolfgang is often a real highlight for children. The takeoff from the Zwölferhorn, the view of the lake, and the feeling of gliding through the air alongside an experienced pilot are memories that will last a lifetime.
Many parents ask us before booking: At what age can children go tandem flying?
At the Salzkammergut Flight School, there is no set age limit. The deciding factor is weight: Children weighing at least 20 kg can fly with us.
Kids love the feeling of flying
We really enjoy flying with children because they usually get a lot out of the experience. Many are curious or a little excited before takeoff, but they often relax within just a few seconds of being in the air.
The flight is always tailored to the child. Some children simply want to glide quietly over Lake Wolfgang and enjoy the view. Others, when conditions allow, might want a little more movement or some small, exciting maneuvers. We only do this after discussing it with you and only if the child feels comfortable.
Why the Zwölferhorn is ideal for children’s flights
Our main flying area is the Zwölferhorn in St. Gilgen on Lake Wolfgang. This mountain offers particularly good conditions for tandem flights with children.
The flight school is located right next to the Zwölferhorn cable car. This makes the process simple and straightforward: arrive, meet your pilot, get your gear ready, and take the cable car together to the launch site.
From the top, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of Lake Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and the Salzkammergut. The combination of excellent facilities, experienced pilots, and breathtaking scenery makes the Zwölferhorn the perfect place for a child’s first tandem flight.
The best time for children: early in the morning
Calm flying conditions are especially important for children. That’s why we recommend booking early time slots at Zwölferhorn for tandem flights with children:
8:45 a.m. or 10:15 a.m.
Conditions are often calmer in the morning than later in the day. This makes the flight more pleasant, more relaxed, and easier to plan.
Of course, our pilots check the current wind and weather conditions before every flight. Safety always comes first. If conditions aren’t right, we don’t fly.
Special equipment for children
One of our major advantages is that we have special child harnesses and smaller tandem parachutes for lighter passengers.
This is important because children need equipment that fits their height and weight. Before takeoff, everything is carefully adjusted and checked. This ensures that the child is securely fastened in the harness and can relax and enjoy the flight.
This child-friendly equipment is one of the reasons why we are particularly well-suited to offering flights for children.
What Parents Should Know
Parents do not have to be present for a tandem flight. However, for minors, we require a written consent form from a parent or guardian.
Of course, parents, grandparents, or chaperones are welcome to join us. They can come along to the meeting point and, depending on the schedule, watch the takeoff or landing as well.
Many families want to fly together. This is often easily arranged with us, as we usually have 4 to 5 pilots flying at the same time. This means that children, parents, or siblings can often take off during the same time slot.
Clothing and Preparation
Children do not need to bring any special equipment from home for the tandem flight. It is important to wear comfortable, athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes.
We recommend:
- sturdy shoes or athletic shoes
- comfortable pants
- Sweater or jacket
- sunglasses, depending on the weather
Very long or loose-fitting clothing isn’t ideal because it can get in the way during takeoff, in the wind, or when handling the equipment.
Photos and videos are optional, but they make for a wonderful keepsake for the whole family, especially on flights with children.
Conclusion: Tandem paragliding with children is possible for those weighing 20 kg or more
Children weighing at least 20 kg can go tandem paragliding with us. There is no set age limit. What matters is having the right equipment, calm flying conditions, and a child who is eager to try the experience.
At the Zwölferhorn in St. Gilgen, we find the perfect conditions for this: short distances, special harnesses for children, smaller tandem paragliders, experienced pilots, and a beautiful flight over Lake Wolfgang.
