Paragliding in Briançon — Tandem Flights Over the Valley
Tandem paragliding flights from Briançon and the surrounding peaks offer spectacular views over the Écrins, the Durance valley, and the Serre Chevalier ski area. No experience is required; you fly with a certified instructor. Flights cost €90–€130 depending on duration and altitude. Take-off is typically from above Chantemerle or from specific launch sites on the Briançon peaks, with landing in the valley below.
On the day
- Short briefing by your pilot before take-off (10–15 minutes)
- Take-off run of 5–10 metres on a grassy or snowy launch site
- Flight duration ranges from 15 minutes (mini flight) to 45+ minutes (thermal soaring)
- Landing in the valley floor near your take-off transport point
- No experience required; suitable from age 6–8 upwards
- Maximum weight typically 100–110kg; check with your operator
Prices and Operators
- Short flight (15–20 minutes) from €90–€100
- Standard flight (30–40 minutes) from €110–€130
- Acrobatic option available with some operators for an additional fee
- Book through the Briançon tourist office or directly with operators
- Serre Chevalier Parapente and local independent pilots operate in the valley
Best Conditions
- Summer (June–September) gives the best thermal conditions for long flights
- Winter tandem flights are available in good weather and spectacular over snow
- Flights are cancelled in strong winds or storms; pilots make the call on the day
- Morning flights have smoother air and less turbulence
- Afternoon flights offer more thermal activity and longer soaring
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does paragliding cost in Briançon?
A 15–20 minute flight costs €90–€100. Longer thermal soaring flights of 30–45 minutes cost €110–€130. Acrobatic options are available from some operators at an additional fee.
Is paragliding safe in Briançon?
Tandem flights with certified instructors are a low-risk activity with a long track record in Briançon. Pilots hold French civil aviation certification. Flights are called off in bad weather — the main practical risk is getting cancelled, and most operators will rebook at no charge.
Where to book
- Briançon Parapente — Emotion'Air The main FFVL-certified tandem flight school in Briançon, open year-round
- FFVL certified paragliding schools French paragliding federation list of certified schools — verify your operator's credentials here
- Serre Chevalier paragliding information Resort guide to paragliding in the valley — launch sites, operators, and what to expect on a tandem flight