USHGA Level of Tandem Instructor:  Tandem I, Tandem II and Tandem Instructor.  It is only the Tandem Instructor who can receive compensation for tandem instruction.

Let's begin by saying that just because you pay your money and participate in the clinic does not guarantee you will get the rating.  Of course we want qualified pilots flying tandem since this would seemly bring more people into our sport.  However, flying tandem is an aspect of hang gliding that we take quite seriously.   It is important to us that it is done safely and with the highest level of judgment and responsibility. 

First you must first ask yourself if you qualify for a tandem rating according to the USHGA guidelines.  Next, you must determine which rating (T1, T2 or T3/Tandem Instructor) best suits your needs

Just about every pilot has the practical skills for flying tandem.  But the biggest part of tandem flying is GOOD JUDGMENT.  So how does one teach good judgment?  Well, you can't.  However, you start off with several intensive ground classes and give the prospective tandem pilot the requisite information for making good judgments.  Building a solid foundation with a complete understanding of dual flight and a good hardy dose of respect for tandem flying will begin to form the building blocks for good judgment. 

Ground classes are a huge part of our tandem clinic and makes up about 75% of the clinic (including various written tests).

The LGO (landing gear only) rating has become the norm for tandem flying.  Though we offer the non-LGO (landing on your feet) rating and foot launch sign-offs, pilots are held to a much higher standard in order to achieve these sign-offs.