Three of us – Sunil, Sukumar, and I – had many challenging yet fun-filled days preparing in India and later at the World Paramotor Championship (WPC) in France.
This was my fifth international championship representing India in the last eight years. For those who have never participated in a World Paramotor Championship, let me tell you – it is nothing short of a Herculean task to organize, prepare, and then fly on foreign soil.
The Road to France
This time, India had a promising lineup of pilots: Nitin & Sunil (PL-2), Manish (PL-1), Harsh Sachan, Siddhartha D’Silva, and myself (PF-1). Unfortunately, due to unusual visa delays and rejections by the French Embassy, only three of us managed to reach France.
Even after making it there, Sukumar and Sunil could not fly at WPC because of crippling local hurdles – despite putting in immense time, energy, and resources. Their ordeal is something I will share in detail in my competition report.
For me too, the situation was uncertain. Upon arrival, each pilot was required to have a ₹25 crore adventure sports insurance cover – something unheard of and practically impossible to obtain in India. Thanks to the timely advice of Capt. Shiv Yadav, my fellow Assistant Commissioner at MPCI, I somehow managed to clear this hurdle and participate.
ACI’s Crucial Support
The Aero Club of India (ACI) played a pivotal role in helping us navigate the challenges at FAI and FFPLUM. The dedicated efforts of Gen. Secretary Badoniji and the energetic support of Ms. Amrita were instrumental in ensuring India’s representation at WPC 2025.
Finally, I found myself as the lone pilot carrying the Indian flag in the French skies.
Flying Conditions & Competition
The early morning tasks involved near zero-wind takeoffs, while the second half of the day brought strong gusts, high winds, and thermic turbulence. I carefully chose my tasks based on my flying skills and the prevailing conditions – always keeping safety first.
It was intense, demanding both physical endurance and mental focus, but I worked hard both on the ground and in the air to complete my participation.
Team Spirit & Pride
Though Sukumar and Sunil could not fly, their spirit never wavered. They supported me wholeheartedly throughout the competition. Together, we built camaraderie with officials from FAI, CIMA, FFPLUM, and teams from over 15 nations.
As team leader, I felt proud of the resilience, unity, and sportsmanship we displayed – even under challenging circumstances.
Looking Ahead
This experience has only strengthened my resolve. I urge more Indian pilots to prepare and train with us for future intercontinental competitions. Both ACI and MPCI will soon be organizing regional and national paramotor pilot meets in India.
I invite all enthusiasts and aspiring pilots to join us in the skies – to learn, compete, and carry the tricolour to new heights.
Congratulations to Team India on their participation at WPC, France.
As per your suggestion we should conduct several regional meet at weather favourable locations to ensure maximum participation.
Great, happy to read the article narreting your experience and feeling for Indian paramotor pilots and boost up. Keep going.