Rules & Regulations for Paramotoring in India
Regulatory Overview (as of September 2025)
Although the National Air Sport Guidelines (NASG) were released by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) in 2023, paragliding and paramotoring (PG & PPG) remain unregulated in India. No organization is currently authorized by the DGCA or MoCA to issue official licenses for these sports.
According to NASG:
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The Air Sports Federation of India (ASFI) and the Aero Club of India (ACI) are designated as the apex bodies for overseeing air sports.
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In 2025, ACI appointed individual commissioners for each air sport (ref: https://aeroclubofindia.com/about/organogram/ )
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For Microlight and Paramotor, the Microlight and Paramotoring Commission of India (MPCI) www.mpci.in was established in January 2025.
In April 2025, MPCI submitted a formal set of proposed regulations to DGCA, which include a technical manual, various guidelines and skill level rating of hobby pilots. These are currently under review.
How Are Paragliding & Paramotoring Organized in India at present?
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The Paragliding Association of India (PAI) was formed in 2010 by the community and is a nationally recognized body. Website: www.pgaoi.org
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The Microlight and Paramotoring Commission (MPCI) was formed in 2025 under Aero Club of India as per the NASP issued by Ministry of Civil Aviation
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State-level associations also exist, often supported by state tourism departments.
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Training is offered by independent schools, clubs, and associations who follow safety procedures and curricula inspired by global organizations such as FAI, BHPA, USPPA and APPI.
PAI & MPCI has:
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Published a Technical Manual for PG & PPG.
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Published guidelines and processes
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Developed experience-based skill rating systems.
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Affiliated schools that pass safety and syllabus audits.
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Endorsed membership cards with QR codes for checking authenticity, which are accepted in many countries as proof of competency.
Licensing in India & Flying Abroad
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In India, no government-issued license is currently required to fly a paramotor or paraglider.
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Pilots are encouraged to:
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Maintain a flight logbook as proof of experience.
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Follow local state safety guidelines, many of which have been developed to reduce accidents.
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For international travel:
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Many countries recognize PAI skill ratings on membership cards, especially when endorsed by affiliated training schools.
Understanding Aero Sports in India
Aero sports like paragliding and paramotoring:
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Require dedication, discipline, and financial planning
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Have a high dropout rate: Only about 5% of those who complete a basic course continue to the next level
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Demand time management alongside professional, family, and social commitments
Not sure if you’re ready for a full course?
Try a joyride with a certified pilot—a safe and exciting way to experience the sport before committing.
Choosing the Right Flying School
Here are tips to help you find a reputable school:
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Visit multiple school websites to compare offerings and learn terminology
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Review their syllabus, instructor-to-student ratio, and experience level
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Check for affiliation with national associations like PAI
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Look for reviews and testimonials from past students
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Ask if you can observe a live training session
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Avoid high-pressure marketing—don’t rush into enrolment
A well-informed choice ensures both safety and value.
How Are Flying Permissions Obtained in India?
Training schools must:
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Apply for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for the proposed flying site from local and district authorities
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Submit NOC's to the Airport Authority of India (AAI) for site approval and to obtain a NOTAM
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Follow standard airspace usage procedures in coordination with local ATC (Air Traffic Control)
Authorized clubs and schools:
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Control flying activity at their approved sites
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Enforce operational standards through memberships and internal guidelines
Need Help or Have Questions?
We’re always happy to assist with reliable information, guidance, and connections within the community.
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