• What is your paragliding specialization and what drew you to focus on this particular aspect of the sport?
As a paragliding instructor in China, my primary focus is delivering comprehensive entry-level training programs to cultivate a thriving paragliding community. My greatest fulfillment comes from empowering beginners to develop their skills, ensuring they are not only flying safly but also embrace the sport with confidence and joy. Over the past five years, I have remained deeply committed to this profession, driven by the profound satisfaction of witnessing pilots’ progress. However, paragliding remains a niche sport in China, and many individuals have yet to experience the exhilaration of soaring through the skies. My mission, was given by myself, is to promote paragliding as an accessible and safe recreational activity in China, enabling more enthusiasts to discover its wonders.
• Which wing do you fly, and what makes it special to you? How does it enhance your flying experience?
I currently fly the Apollo 3, a high-performance yet remarkably user-friendly glider. My first experience with it was soaring above the Great Wall alongside my friend Artoosh, and I was immediately impressed by its stability, efficiency, and precise feedback. Responsive without being overly sensitive. It strikes the perfect balance between effortless handling and exhilarating performance, significantly enhancing my daily flying experience. As an instructor, I find it particularly valuable for guiding student pilots in thermals, as it requires minimal active input while delivering reliable performance. Whether for thermal flying or crosscountry adventures, the Apollo 3 proves to be an exceptionally versatile and pilot-friendly wing, making every flight both enjoyable and confident.
• Do you have any specific routines or rituals that you follow before taking off?
Before taking off, I switch to "silence mode" until I’m securely buckled in and my lines are properly prepared. No chitchatting until I’m fully ready. This helps me focus and ensure everything is in order before I take flight.
• What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned during your paragliding career?
Think before you act. It’s essential to understand my own strengths and weaknesses to determine whether I’m suited for different flying conditions. This isn’t just important for my own safety, it also matters because my actions can influence new pilots in the community. Leading by example and making responsible decisions help create a safer flying environment for everyone.
• Who or what inspires you to keep pushing boundaries in paragliding?
My biggest inspiration is my incredibly kind instructor and friend, Artoosh. After a long day of marshaling at the takeoff, instead of taking time for himself, he set aside my request for free flying and instead helped me unlock my first Helico maneuver. His dedication and selflessness motivate me to keep pushing my own limits and give back to the community in the same way.
• Where do you see your paragliding career taking you in the future, and what are your ultimate goals or aspirations within the sport?
Right now, I’m instructing beginner paragliders, and my next clear goal is to reach the highest level of instructing and becoming a Master Instructor within the APPI system. Achieving this would allow me to contribute even more to the sport, help new pilots grow, and support the development of the paragliding community on a larger scale.
• How do you perceive the risks involved in paragliding, and how do you manage them during your flights?
Paragliding comes with inherent risks, and I acknowledge that reality. However, I set clear personal boundaries regarding the level of risk I’m willing to take. Before attempting any new maneuver, I ensure I fully understand the basic theory behind it and the potential risk factors involved. My approach to risk management is simple: take things step by step. Gradual progression, careful preparation, and a thorough understanding of the sport help me stay as safe as possible.
• What inspired you to become a part of the Sky Squadron team, and how does the brand's vision align with your personal goals as a pilot?
Joining the SKY team was a natural decision for me. It’s an honor to be part of a team that includes elite pilots, instructors, and designers, as it provides me with incredible learning opportunities and expands my perspective on the sport worldwide.
Another major reason is that SKY’s product range covers all aspects of paragliding. Their well-designed gear offers reliable support for pilots of all levels, which aligns perfectly with my goal as an instructor, to support the community, help it grow, and ensure that pilots have access to the best possible equipment.
