steve342

Currently looking for a suitable local site to fly from in the Basingstoke area. Local council unfortunately rules out Crabtree plantation and Basingstoke Common due to local resident complaints about noise, etc (seems more to do with model aircraft than PMs, but understandable). So now approaching local landowners/farmers, the usual question is 'what is paramotoring exactly?'. You can see their eyes glaze over when you try to explain simply what it is, how much space is required, how noisy is it, will it turn into a PM rave, etc..... So a suggestion for the PM website (for full members only?) is a link (or downloadable to smartphone/tablet) to a cool 3-4 min video which you can point prospective site owners at to quickly explain and dispel any fears. I know there is a lot of YouTube stuff out there, but I think a PMClub-made video would carry more credibility and weight. Doesn't need to be flashy, just well made and include a quick guide to the paramotor kit, take-off and landing demo, typical space required (grassy or set-aside field, well clear of wires, trees, animals, crops, a place to park the car, etc), facts about our insurance scheme, how well trained, nice & responsible folk we are, ........ I think this would help line up a few sites, then it's up to use these sites responsibly & safely.

I can vouch for the Polini, saw it fly it today, next best thing to a Eurofighter on reheat (without the noise). BTW, where was everyone today?? First decent day it seems in 2 months and only two of us students turned up!! Cold but lovely smooth flying weather

If that's the Basingstoke Common at Basingstoke (and not another one), I live pretty close and I thought it was out of bounds to PMs according to previous posts? Just finishing training at Membury but work and weather also stopping me from searching for PM buddies and fields near Basingstoke, must make it a New Year's resolution Steve

Hi Mark Close to finishing my training at Membury, I live near Odiham so looking for local sites & pilots too. Steve

Hi Very interested in taking up paramotoring, Membury looks the likely training location for me within OK travelling distance (for training). Just doing my research beforehand on local flying sites and local pilot community close to me once trained, I'm 7 miles East of Basingstoke just off the M3. I understand Basing Common in Basingstoke is a good site? Would appreciate some info on this site - permissions, restrictions, hazards, etc. Also info on other sites within 10-15 miles drive of Basingstoke. Have previous flying experience with Microlights in my area so familiar with airspace restrictions etc, just want to enjoy regular fun flying when time/weather allows with more airtime than roadtime. Cheers. Steve.