"The pilot is not an experienced tandem pilot"

If you wish to become a two-seater pilot, you must pass a theory test and a practical exam. Candidates must prove themselves in the following fields: aeronautics, meteorology, legislation and regulation, materials science and flying practice. In addition, they must have at least 30 flights at high altitude to be admitted. Three reviewers observe each step of the practical demonstrations.

The examiners ensure that the pilot performs the 5-point check: Before starting, he must check if safety is guaranteed. Are the helmet and harness sitting? Are all backups closed? For this, loops and lines are checked. How is the umbrella? Has the wind turned? Is the planned departure space free? Only when all these points have been answered in the affirmative will the starting race begin. Then, several maneuvers must be made.

If the driver passes the exam and acquires the license in tandem, no further tests will follow. Annual exams do not exist. But: "We regularly visit companies," said Christian Boppart, director of the association.