Sam Holmes Sailing · video

What this video covers

Sam Holmes travels to Annecy, France, for a paragliding and speed flying trip in the Alps.Watch Frequent rain and shifting winds complicate flight planning, often forcing hikes to launch sites or reliance on gondolas to reach higher elevations.0:19 During one attempt near Mont Blanc, steep terrain and technical conditions prevent a high-altitude launch, leading to a descent to a lower, more accessible site.13:57 Flights involve both standard paragliders, which offer better glide ratios and reserve parachutes, and hybrid speed wings, which provide more maneuverability but require steeper slopes for takeoff.11:37 Landing zones in the region frequently feature hazards such as power lines and rotor turbulence caused by pine trees.21:48 The experience highlights the challenges of returning to the sport after a period of inactivity, specifically regarding comfort in turbulence and thermal flying.6:00

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