Are you new to paragliding and wondering what the difference is between the ACVL P1 and P2 certification? This guide explains the two levels, their requirements, and why Summit Paragliding teaches them together in an optimized combined curriculum.
Quick answer: HPAC P1 vs P2
TheP1(Beginner Pilot) certifies you to fly in simple and controlled conditions at designated sites, accompanied by an instructor. TheP2(Novice Pilot) goes further: soaring flight, use of basic thermals, and more varied weather conditions. Both are taught together at Summit Paragliding, allowing pilots to fly independently once the training is completed.
What is P1?
The P1 certificate is the first level of official certification in Canada. To obtain it, you must demonstrate:
- Mastery of wing inflation on the ground (forward and reverse launch)
- Ability to perform controlled takeoffs from a training slope
- Basic in-flight control: gentle turns left and right
- Landings in a targeted area
- Basic theoretical knowledge: weather, equipment, regulations
The P1 allows you to fly at designated sites suitable for beginners, in light and predictable wind conditions. Flights must be conducted in the presence of an instructor.
What is P2?
P2 builds directly on the skills of P1 and adds:
- Soaring flight (using lift winds to stay in the air)
- Use of basic thermals to gain altitude
- Deeper understanding of meteorology and aerology
- Management of unusual situations (light turbulence, minimal closures)
- Flights at more varied sites with more dynamic weather conditions
P2 opens the doors to most paragliding sites in Canada and allows you to progress to P3.
Why does Summit Paragliding teach P1 and P2 together?
At Summit Paragliding, we have designed a combined P1/P2 curriculum that optimizes your progression. Here’s why it’s the best choice:
- Natural progression: the P1 and P2 skills logically complement each other. Stopping at P1 creates an artificial pause in your learning. Ultimately, apprentices want to achieve autonomy.
- Time and money savings: a combined curriculum avoids the need to return for a second distinct training.
- Better retention: learning both levels at once, while all sensations are fresh, accelerates mastery.
- Personalized follow-up: Pat Jackson adapts each student's progress on a day-to-day basis according to conditions and abilities.
How long does it take to get P1/P2?
The duration varies according to several factors: the weather at Mount Yamaska, your physical ability, and your personal progress. But above all, presence at the flight site to advance. On average:
- Quick (good conditions + natural ability):10 days present.
- Typical:15-25 days present
- Difficult weather conditions or slower progression:30 days +
Summit Paragliding operates through completely open training sessions during the best time of the year, allowing the schedule to be adapted to your availability while considering favorable weather windows.
And after P1/P2 — what’s next?
Once you have obtained your P1/P2, the natural progression is:
- P3 (Intermediate): after about 40 hours of post-P2 flight. Mastery of thermal flight, cross-country flying, advanced conditions.
- SIV Course(strongly recommended during P3): incident simulation in flight on Lake Annecy in France with Summit Paragliding.
- P4 (Advanced): advanced level, high-performance wings, advanced maneuvers, SIV.
- Instructor: for those who want to share their passion.