APPI 3 Pilot Paragliding Course Background
APPI Education System | APPI 3 Pilot Course

APPI 3 Pilot (20 Days)

The intensive course for pilots ready to transition to independent flying, thermalling, and cross-country flight preparation.

Independent Pilot • FAI IPPI 3Thermalling • XC Preparation20-Day Immersion
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APPI 3 Pilot cross-country training

Independent Pilot

Kamshet, Maharashtra • FAI IPPI 3

Practical Skills Focus
The APPI 3 course refines high-level ground handling and precision launches. In-flight skills focus on thermalling, ridge soaring, and cross-country flight techniques. Students learn to manage complex flight conditions, turbulence, and practice emergency recovery. The emphasis is on developing the confidence to fly independently in a variety of conditions.

Duration & Flights

The total duration is 20 days of intensive, structured training (weather dependent). This comprehensive schedule includes 15–20 supervised flights, progressively increasing in height, distance, and complexity.

Core Advanced Modules

Aerodynamics & Performance

Covers advanced concepts like Lift, Drag, Polar Curves, Glide Efficiency, and Stall/Spin Awareness. Focuses on energy management, wing loading, and understanding glider dynamics for maximum performance.

Meteorology for XC Flying

Detailed instruction on Micro-meteo, Thermals, Ridge Lift, Wind Gradient, and Cloud Development. Learn to interpret changing conditions and weather patterns specifically for successful cross-country flights.

Flight Planning & XC Skills

Focuses on Route Planning, Airspace Awareness, and XC Flight Preparation. Includes practical skills like advanced turning, altitude planning, and safe emergency landing site selection.

Theory & Practical Application

Theory Sessions

  • Principles of flight, wing behavior, angle of attack, and glider dynamics.
  • Meteorology fundamentals for safe XC flying.
  • Cross-country flight planning, airspace rules, and navigation.
  • Risk Assessment, Decision-Making Frameworks, and Flight Judgment.
  • Emergency procedures and incident analysis.
  • Understanding glider performance, polar curves, and energy efficiency.
  • Flight logs, record keeping, and self-evaluation for pilot progression.

Practical Application

  • Integrating theory with 15–20 supervised solo flights.
  • Practicing cross-country techniques, ridge soaring, and thermalling.
  • Advanced ground handling and precision launches in variable conditions.
  • Managing complex flight conditions, turbulence, and variable wind.
  • Wing loading adjustments and advanced landing maneuvers.
  • Equipment checks: Harness optimization, trim adjustment, and reserve use.

Certification, Prerogatives & Rules

Certification

The successful completion of the APPI 3 course allows the pilot to apply for the APPI 3 Pilot license, which is equivalent to the FAI IPPI 3 rating (Pilot status).

Pilot Prerogatives

An APPI 3 Pilot is able to fly independently at sites they know, with the ability to manage complex conditions. Recommended for cross-country flights with assistance and mentoring.

International Recognition

In countries where the National Airsports Control (NAC) recognizes APPI, the FAI IPPI 3 stamp will automatically appear on the pilot’s APPI license, aiding international recognition.

Level Up Your Autonomy

The next step is APPI 4 Progress.

Reinforce and validate your skills across varied environments to become a truly advanced, autonomous pilot.

Go to APPI 4 Progress ▶

Frequently Asked Questions

It is an intensive 20-day program designed for pilots ready to transition from supervised flying (APPI 2) to independent flying. It focuses on thermalling, ridge soaring, cross-country preparation, and advanced decision-making.

The program includes 15–20 supervised flights, progressively increasing in height, distance, and complexity, allowing for cross-country practice and longer circuits.

The 20-day duration ensures sufficient time for advanced theory, practical exercises, multiple flights, and consolidation of complex skills (like thermalling and XC) while accommodating potential weather delays.

Advanced topics are covered, including lift, drag, polar curves, glide efficiency, stall/spin awareness, wing loading, and energy management, essential for performance flying.

You will refine precision launches in variable winds, master active canopy management, practice coordinated turns, wing loading adjustments, emergency recovery techniques, and advanced thermal entry.

Yes. The course introduces XC flight techniques, including route planning, airspace awareness, energy management, and interpreting weather patterns specifically for distance flying.

Equipment (glider, harness, reserve, helmet, radio) is typically provided. However, pilots are encouraged to transition to their own suitable gear for this advanced level of training.

The goal is for the pilot to achieve the confidence and competence to fly independently, execute longer circuits, and safely manage complex flight conditions in a variety of environments.

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