"I have had the wonderful experience
of advancing my flight skills through Eric Dufour.
He has the ability to watch a pilot fly, and within minutes
determine what skills need to be improved upon.
Having visited him a couple of times he has a knack for the
sport of powered paragliding and instructing people.
Having met pilots throughout the country that have been
trained by Eric, I am impressed at their skill level and
confidence they posses as ppg pilots.
We all have something to learn from him, beginner through
advanced, and I cannot say enough about his skill and
ability to demonstrate the ppg, when Eric puts on a
paramotor, Zen is the only word to describe Eric with a
paramotor, be it a trike or foot launch unit.
To any and all perspective ppg pilots and students wanting
to further advance their skill level, I highly recommend
Eric Dufour."
"I was learning flying locally and did 3 successful
flights in couple of years.
It was very
frustrating that every morning in the weekend wakeup
early and go to flying and come back with broken
prop or heart.
Finally I
went to right place (Paratour) and did perfect training.
I
was there for 10 days and I did 65 flights.
If you want to learn HOW TO FLY, please do a favor to
yourself. I highly recommend training from
PARATOUR. I mean it.It will be favor to you.
If you want to learn
flying with fun go to Eric."
"I had a rough start with PPG. I originally chose a
local instructor because he was close by which was
more convenient. I ordered gear and when it arrived
he was not sure how to assemble the unit, this was a
sign of difficulties to come.
My solo flight took place at a crowded airport with
sky divers dropping in and jump planes taking off.
After some difficulty, and an ankle injury that
still pains me today, I launched. The radio didn't
work correctly and I couldn't hear his instructions,
the motor torqued on my back horribly and put me
into a hard right turn over an active runway. I was
scared witless and didn't control the turn until
after I had crossed the runway once, and then again
on the way back just missing the jump plane.
The rest of the flight went ok, but after it was
over I was convinced I had made a bad mistake in
taking up PPG. I bid farewell to my local
instructor and went home depressed.
Later I relayed my experiences to Bob Peters and he
convinced me to come with him to New Mexico and
train with Eric Dufour. He chastised me for not
going to Eric in the first place and ensured me that
Eric would take care of everything. He could not
have been more right!
Eric inspected my motor setup and immediately found the
problem that was causing the extreme torque. Eric then took my gear out and flew it just to make sure it
worked correctly. Seeing my gear flown masterfully really
helped me have confidence in the equipment.
Eric was able
to read me like a book and knew just what to do to build up
my confidence and get me flying. Eric has an
amazing ability to impart his calm confident manner to his
students. When your working with Eric you just
know that he has everything under control.
His
training was always clear, concise and delivered in a
confident manner. Training is a skill all its own and Eric
has mastered it. In no time Eric had me
launching and landing successfully and I was having fun
doing it.
I now have 450 successful flights over the last 4
years and have traveled all over the country to fly. This
is a magnificent sport which I would have surely quit if it
wasn't for Eric. Eric gave me the gift of flight and for
this I will always be grateful. Don't take shortcuts like I
did. Go straight to Eric and get started on a sound
footing.
One last thing; I switched gear after my first year and
bought an Escape wing and SD Nomad from Eric. I'm still
flying this gear today, three years and 200 flight hours
later and loving it. My Black Devil motor still runs like a
champ. I have flown many other units and wings since then
and I still love my SD and Escape wing."
Alex Donaghy, December 2009
Colorado Springs, Colorado
719-391-2996 alexdonaghy@gmail.com
"My training and first 25 flights as a PPG pilot
were under the instruction of Eric Dufour.
Eric is a naturally gifted teacher and PPG pilot.
During my training Eric was patient, professional
and reassuring.
He instilled me with confidence that I could safely
fly a PPG and made my foray into PPG an enjoyable
one.
I returned home with solid skills to continue flying
and improving upon.
Three years and over 300 flights later I am still
flying my SD Nomad and loving every flight."
Mathew Wich, December
2009
Colorado Springs, Colorado
"I'm a Canadian PPG Instructor and I run aPowered Paragliding School in New Brunswick,
Canada, during the summer training period.
I've known Eric & Elisabeth for several years,
but I've had the pleasure of residing next door to
them in Christmas, Florida, for the last 2 years.
Eric's flying skills and
knowledge of teaching PPG is second to none.I've had the opportunity to see Eric train
students on many of occasions and his dedication and
experience of almost 20 years teaching PPG shows in
his graduating students.
Students can expect to fly solo
around 30 flight's.Most PPG Schools in the USA will not even
come close to this level of time to get their
student's to a safe level of flying.In fact, there are instructor's that allow
their student's depart with less than 10 flight's!!
Paratour also provides:
- Sales of outstanding PPG equipment;
- Service and repair;
- Readily stocked PPG part's;
- Glider inspection and repair.
There is no other PPG School in North America that
provides the same amount of Full serviceto the sport.
In conclusion, students training with Paratour can
expect nothing but 100% dedication from Eric to get
you to a level of flying experience that you can fly
with confidence and reassurance that you have the
knowledge and skill to fly safely.
If you do your homework and compare what
other PPG Schools provide, you'll easily choose
Paratourto
fulfill your PPG dreams."
That is the easy way to explain my gratitude to you
both, but now you have to tolerate the long version.
Back
in April of this year I was so fortunate to meet
Eric Dufour from Paratour out at the St. Johns river
in Florida. I realized the first time that I met him
that he would be the man that would help me to
fulfill my dream of flying. There's no possible way
at that time I could realize how important to my
life you both would become.
First not only by teaching me to fly safely but also
introducing me to a great group of people with the
same passion of flying.
Eric I learned in my last days of training was very
ill but still very dedicated in making sure that I
was trained properly and safely before releasing me
to fly with the local group. It was at that time
that I realized that not only had I made the right
connection in the ppg community but I had also made
a very good friend.
I have had the good fortune to be around as Eric has
trained many more fulfill that same dream of flying
and see the high level of making sure that safety is
the first thing on Paratour's mind.
Picture taken right after
Steve 1st solo flight.
It's not about sales it's about making sure that a
new pilot has been given the best training by what I
feel is the best instructor for this sport.
Elisabeth, you have always been there with
reinforcing conversation of safety and inspiration
as I have made my way through this long learning
process of flying safely.
You both have taken your time and passion to inspire
my wife into at least taking the first steps in
becoming a pilot and in doing so, have made my
family stronger in bringing us close together.
After my 50th solo on September 14, 2009 I was
handed a glass of wine by Elizabeth and she said "
and here is to your 100 flights" on September 15,
2009 Eric successfully completed ground training and
safely soloed my wife which filled my heart with
happiness.
On November 21, 2009 I was fortunate to have had
completed my 100th flight on my 47th birthday. Also
on this day was fortunate to be a part of the
celebration of your families successful completion
of the visa process to become citizens of the United
States. Even though this was your celebration of
bringing friends together to share this monumental
event in your life you still found time to make it
one of the best birthday celebrations that I've ever
had. (thanks for the gloves)
So with this I bring it back to the simple statement
"Thank You!
With all the love and respect for you and your
family.
"Paratour repair services really
helped me to get back into the skies.
I fly an
Ozone Indy with a Fresh Breeze Monster Hirth; and
when both were damaged, Elisabeth repaired my wing
and Eric got my engine back, so I was back up and
flying.
Not everyone in this country lives
near a flying school or dealer; but you can
UPS your equipment to Paratour, and their repair
services will be done in time to continue the flying
season!"
This picture is of me at sunrise over
Concord, Massachusetts!
"There are many great flyers in
Powered Paragliding.Quite a few excellent instructors as well.But none whose direction, suggestions,
corrections, and sincerity that I trust as fully as
Eric.
His skill and dedication to our sport is a constant
inspiration.
When I went to fly on Pitcairn
Island in 2006, I'd been flying PPG for less than
one year.
It was after instruction by Eric
in some safety maneuvers that I had the confidence
to fly on a tiny, remote island with no support,
hospital, or scheduled travel.
And since there had not been
anyone flying on Pitcairn before me, It was nothing
but complete unknowns.Once Eric assured me he felt I'd be safe, I
knew I would be fine-
and I was."
I am a 51 year old emergency physician, in "As
long as I can remember I have had vivid nighttime dreams of flying…I
don’t mean flying in a cockpit or machine but really flying…sometimes
like superman, sometimes more like swimming into the air.
Although I have been in small planes, sailplanes, helicopters, balloons
and even been skydiving, none
of these provided the sensation I most longed for…flying without the
constraints of a cockpit or big machine.Then I discovered powered paragliding.
In good
physical health with a wife and family and certainly not interested in
extreme risk or injury, but sincerely wanted to achieve this dream of
flying.
I simply hoped I hadn’t waited too long in my life to do so. In talking
with others, it was very clear that good instruction was going to be the
key not only to success in achieving my flying dream but in doing so as
safely as possible.
I was fortunate enough to have be directed to Paratour… so after a
few phone calls, I found myself on the way to his school for instruction
at Paratour.
My instructor isn’t only
and expert pilot and competitive champion, but he is without doubt one
of THE BEST instructors… just ask anyone in the sport.
A sound program of ground handling and
kiting skills progresses
thru simulator training,
tow training and culminates in that first flight.
Eric is a superb teacher, in part because he is able to
read a student and discern their best style of learning and then
adapt his methods. Initial foot launch training is strenuous but
fun, and the training site is incredibly beautiful with the
adventure of a boat ride each morning to the flying site
Eric is patient but
appropriately demanding, and always, always interested in safetyfirst.
On
Oct. 17th 2007, the morning of my third day of
training Ifledged with
my first foot launch flight…. and since that timeI havelogged almost 80
flights. The training I received gave me the needed skills and
confidence,but an
equally importantawareness of my limitations, a healthy respect for
weather and site
conditions with anemphasis onthe
importance of attention to equipment preflight, maintenance and
motor starting safety.
I owe my success to the excellent instruction
received
at Paratour and look
forward to many more years of flying
fun. I hope to return
for more training in advanced
techniquesin the
near future.
If you have dreamed of flying as I have,
and wish to enter this sport…getting
the best instruction
possible is imperative to your success and safety.
I encourage you to learn
from the best and remember if you don’t do it this year, you
will be another year older when you do get around to it.
"Leonardo da Vinci once said: "For once you have tasted flight, you
will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for
there you have been, and there you will always long to return".
My instructor at Paratour personifies this
timeless quote. If you are looking for a passionate, dedicated, and
meticulous instructor who will push you to be the absolute best you can
be, look no further than Paratour.
From the first time handling the kite, on to
towing, static and dynamic simulators, I just can't see how there could
be a better progression anywhere.
He'll lead you confidently every step of the way - progress seems
exponential.
30+ flights later, I can still here his voice on
all phases of flight (actually, you end up hearing him even on
the ground, far away from the airfield). I have been involved with air sports all my life - skydiving,
flying airplanes/helicopters, kitesurfing, and now on to
paramotoring. I have had many excellent instructors in this
journey. However, in the
way that my instructor has allowed to keem my dream moving
forward, he definitely has set himself apart from all the rest.
I will always be grateful for the additional wings that he's
given me, and I can only look forward to keep training and learn
more from him, and someday become as good as him. This will be a
daunting task to say the least. He's the best.
Thank you Paratour for a world class operation and
experience!
"I would not have achieved my goal of
flying a paraglider without the training and coaching of Paratour and his
support staff.
I tried two other instructors/schools and all I learned was how not to
teach people to paraglide.
Paratour maintains a well structured training
approach tailored to the individual student. An excellent training
facility, as well as a written syllabus keeps the student progressing at
a comfortable, safe and fun pace.
Picture to come
If your ready to realize your dream, give Paratour a week
and they will change your life.
Any prospective student is free to
contact me at my email."
"If you are thinking about learning to fly a
powered paraglider or parachute, PLEASE do yourself a favor and go to
learn with Eric Dufour or Michelle Daniele.
I just finished my foot-launch PPG training course with them and can't
say enough good things about my experience.
I went to train with them after training
locally the previous year, and suffering with numerous broken cages and
props. I was so frustrated I was ready to give up. I had only 2 flights
and hundreds of dollars in broken equipment.
All of this changed when I got to see Eric and Michelle.
Both work so hard to give you the most out of your time there.
One of them was always with me, giving me guidance and acting as
my chase crew. They maximize your learning by concentrating on
the important things. After landing, I would usually take a few
breaths while Eric or Michelle saved me time, money, and heartache.
The last point I want to address
is the high quality of their equipment. I arrived with my
own equipment (motor and paraglider). After one flight
with the SD RDM 100 and EZ-glider wing (I believe this is pretty
much the same as the Escape wing they sell now), I was shocked
to feel how much easier it was to launch. The weight
distribution of the motor was perfect, and the wing is so
willing to stay up in the air while launching. So, I
decided to purchase them on the spot and sell my old equipment.
Again, I would have saved money if I just went to them first.
They also have a full motor and glider shop on site, so if you
have any equipment malfunctions, they can usually be sorted out
the same day so you can continue your training.
I can keep going, but I will sum
up with the bottom line: If you want to learn to fly a
powered paraglider (or powered parachute), make the investment
in going to the best. PLEASE take my advice and go to see
them – there is simply no substitute for doing things right the
first time around.
PS – you are welcome to email me
any questions/comments." Paresh
Karandikar, August
2006
Herndon,
Virginia pkarandi@yahoo.com
"A
chance remark at work regarding Powered Paragliding led
me to Eric Dufour.
I ordered an SD RDM 100/Swing 140, helmet, and watch,
and drove from New Brunswick to Montreal for training in
June 2004.
A one-line comment on that experience would be: “If you
are ready, willing, and able to work with Eric, he will
reciprocate.”
I should know: I didn’t make the “PPG Academy’s Dean’s
List “. Au contraire, I was advised to come back for a
refresher course, and I did, in October. Am I glad?
Yes!
Why believe me? I knew nothing about PPG, but I do have
experience in sport parachuting.
Rightly or wrongly, certain aspects can be related;
e.g.: you could “drop in” (no pun intended) to a “Drop
Zone” where a quick appraisal of the staff and
facilities make it obvious that it’s not worth the
effort of even getting your gear out of the trunk.
Also, this is a “referral”: I’m a “happy
camper”; otherwise I wouldn’t be writing.
Picture by
JohanneSavignac
In my opinion, the training was conducted in a professional
manner: It was like a voluntary army “boot camp”; there
were exhortations to “Run! Run! Run!”, but it wasn’t debasing.
The “Simulator” introduces a student to the effects of thrust
and torque, and knowing where and how to use the “kill switch”
on the throttle control. (If this seems “Mickey Mouse”, do
a little research into what the Apollo astronauts underwent:
It’s called “Operant Conditioning”.) “Ground Control” showed
that the inflated glider was not an unruly horse to be
controlled through brute force – balance, anticipation, and the
subtle use of reins are the key. Tows demonstrated how to
layout the glider, grasp the steering handles, inflate the
glider: Lunge-run-control-check inflation-maintain
heading, and wait for the sweet relief of the towing cable’s
tension to finally prove that this is really worth the effort.
Tow-and-Release added an interesting psychological dimension:
there’s an inborn reluctance to “cut the ties that bind” you
above the ground, whether the “tie” provides suspension or
tension. With a squeeze of the lever, the cable with its
orange flagging tape attached drifts earthward several hundred
below, and you’re back to being a glider pilot setting up a
landing circuit.
The motor – what can I say? There’s only 10 hours on mine
and I haven’t attempted to emulate Charles Lindbergh yet.
The only “incident” occurred during my refresher course:
an instructor was using my gear to demonstrate techniques when
the motor began to lose power, as if it suddenly developed
asthma. A quick check determined that the carburetor
filter was clogged with what appeared to be pollen. Spray
it off, and we’re back in business.
What were my highlights? Two:
I inadvertently hit the kill switch on a touch-and-go attempt.
Not a problem. An instructor was running, backward, in
front of me, pulling on the starting cord, and “urging” both
yours truly and the motor to get going. We both did.
On the last evening I was tired, sore, and grateful that I had
accomplished as much as I had. A very “people oriented”
instructor made a very low-key suggestion that I join him and
another student for what turned out to be an hour long
cross-country. That experience was what you might see in a
slick advertisement, except this one was real. Sunset,
October 7, 2005, and here I am following two fellow fliers,
balmy weather, sleeves rolled up, bobbing around in three
dimensions, watching “little people” doing whatever in their
backyards, heading into the setting sun over Ile Perrot.
This isn’t the stuff of dreams. Contact Eric Dufour and
you’ll be shown that it can be reality."
Glen Boyd, April 2005
Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
Glen.Boyd@gnb.ca
"When I came to
Eric in 2003, it was out of frustration. I had been
training with another instructor because he was the closest.
Months later, I was still practicing ground handling and had
not flown. While ground
handling is great fun and necessary, it is not what I wanted
to do forever. It was like wanting to play baseball
and doing nothing but batting practice.
I had explained my frustration to Eric and he had said that
he would get me flying.
We started the day with some ground handling, I immediately
saw the difference between Eric and my other instructor.
He is more like a sports couch than a flight instructor;
which is exactly what is needed here. I was learning
about ten times faster than I had with my first instructor.
Within two hours on the FIRST DAY he had others and myself
in the air on tow.
After several more tows and simulator training we broke for lunch.
After lunch we did several more tows and more simulator training.
As the sun was setting and the winds became "perfect" the "crew"
strapped me in to a motor, put a helmet on me, and rigged and
checked radios. Eric said once again as he had said all day,
don’t think, just listen and do.
I was given clearance to
start the launch when I was ready. As soon as I started
forward, Eric's hand and voice instructions started, "step right,
half throttle, run, full throttle, RUN, RUN…" Seconds later I
was flying like I had never flown before (I have 1200 hours in
general aviation airplanes).
I returned the next month and
stay most of a week, to become confident and safe. I have been
flying a year now and it would not have happened with out Eric and
crew.
Am I saying you will solo the first day if you train
with Eric? No, I am saying that you will solo as fast as YOU
are capable of in a safe and friendly environment."
An open
letter to all interested in flying a Powerparaglider.
"When I decided to learn to fly a PPG, I was
70 years old. I just bought one and signed up for
lessons.
My initial experience with Eric
Dufour was a bit intimidating. He looked me
straight in the eye and asked how old I was. The
next question was if I thought I could do this.
He then proceeded to tell me he was going to push me
to learn. I rather expected someone a little less
blunt. At that point I almost wondered if I had
made a mistake.
Well, he did push me. Never beyond what I was capable of and if
I indicated to him I was a bit tired, he bluntly said “Rest for
a few minutes”. He also informed me to do as much as I could
and at any time if I was uncomfortable in any way to let him
know. And he did work me hard that first day. In the evening
during the debriefing he let me know I was doing okay. (Just
okay?) I had memories of being back in Marine Corps boot camp.
Next day more of the same and he never let me (or anyone else I
have discovered) slack off or if we made any mistakes, he was
quick to let us know and also let us know how to do it
correctly. What a perfectionist.
That second day at noon he asked me if I wanted to solo that
afternoon. Me solo, but, I was sure if he said I was ready,
then it must be so. I did and had the pleasure of soloing side
by side with Matt Hoffman (BMX Champion). He seemed as thrilled
as I.
If I made Eric Dufour out to be an ogre, he most
certainly is not. What he is IS dedicated, precise, very alert
to all that is going on with all students at all times and very
concerned that all learn skills and above all safety.
I have the fortune of living within a decent distance of where
Eric teaches and therefore am able to fly there often. I have
become friends with Eric and his wife Elisabeth and have had
some personal conversations with them both. Eric truly is
dedicated to each student and teaches with a passion. If I do
something wrong even today (and it might be a half mile from
him) he will see it and correct me. Eric is without a doubt
the premier Instructor in this business and when you learn from
him... You WILL LEARN from him.
By the way, he really is a fun persons, but when he instructs,
he is all business and gives you everything he can. He will
teach you how to fly and how to fly well.
Sincerely,"
Don Andrews (6/26/1934), February 2005
Florida Phone (352) 817-5377 captdon.1@earthlink.net
"To
fly is the dream of many, but the cost and safety is
why we don’t see more people enjoying the dream to
fly.
The PPG gave both my brother and
myself the ability to see this dream come true.
With its ability to take-off in short distance and
land almost anywhere, the PPG has proven us how safe
and versatile it can be.
When we first
research the PPG on the internet, we had no idea
where to go for a course in PPG.
After some thoughts and word of mouth from a few PPG
pilots in our area, we decided to be trained by Eric
Dufour and we were please to hear and see that we
had made a good decision, not only for getting
excellent training, but most importantly in safe
hands
.
We knew very
little about PPG, we saw
the first real one
flying the morning of
our course, having Eric
Dufour for instructor
made us feel more at
ease and confident
during the training.
For me,
combining photography
and flying gave me a new
opportunity to capture
my own postcards, for
myself and others to
see. Fly low or high
and slow, no vibration,
the use of both hands
freely and almost 180%
ground visibility makes
the PPG the ultimate
aircraft for aerial
photography. Fly around
your favorite fishing
lake, hunting grounds,
or even search and
rescue; the
possibilities are
restricted to your
imagination.
The PPG is not only for
the strong and
physically fit person,
for those who are not
fortunate of having
strong bodies may enjoy
the same thrill by
adding a trike to their
machine and not need any
physical stress to fly.
For my brother
Donald, he just likes
low flying, and he’s in
the air every chance he
gets. The ability for
the PPG to be ready for
flight in a few minutes
and to fit in a car or
boat, because of it’s
weight and size, make’s
it the best little
aircraft ever made.
We recommend for anyone
wanting to investigate
this lovely new and safe
sport to seek the
assistance of Eric
Dufour in getting
themselves in the
air".
Maurice and Donald
Robichaud, February
2005 New Brunswick,
Canada
"When
I decided I wanted to get into the sport of Powered
Paragliding, I purchased many videos about the sport
and watched them over and over.
As an
experienced Hang Glider pilot and Ultra Light Pilot,
I knew I wanted to get professional instruction in
this area of aviation.
One of the videos was an unedited video, filmed
at Sun & Fun in Lakeland Florida. The video showed
all the manufacturers, schools, and their products.
It also showed many powered paragliding takeoffs and
landings by the the pilots in attendance. In one
scene, a newer pilot was struggling to get into the
air much to the entertainment of the crowd. No
one seemed to really want to help this guy. A pilot
who had just recently landed, walked out to the
field and offered his assistance. The pilot
offering assistance was Eric Dufour. This was not
his student and he had no reason to do so other than
the fact that he wanted to help. I had known Eric
was a very skilled pilot and instructor, and this
totally made up my mind as to where I would go for
training.
I spent 3 days
with Eric, and I was in the air the very first day. I purchased
my wing from Eric and have had many many hours of enjoyment
since.
Eric will push you as hard as you allow him
to because he wants you to make the most out of your experience.
His training is thorough, professional, and he will capitalize
on all your strengths.
When someone asks me about
getting into the sport of Powered Paragliding, I do not even
have to think about where I will refer them. If my son or
daughter ever gets the desire to fly PPG, I would take them
to Eric." Mike MacPherson, February 2005
14, Whitetail Way Pequea, Pennsylvania 17565, US
mmacpherson@comcast.net
"I wanted to drop
you a note to
let you know how
my flying is
going and how
much I
appreciate the
training you
provided. The
techniques you
use to build a
student up to
solo
flight.
After
all the ground
handling,
simulator, and
towing
practice, by the
time I was ready
to solo I felt
pretty
comfortable that
I had the skills
to pull it off. Once I did get
in the air,
your continual
radio contact
and directions
made
it surprisingly
easy.
As I continued
to practice, I
noticed that you do
an amazing job of
knowing what your
students are
doing in the air,
even while working
with other students
on the ground.
I always felt like you were watching out for me and making
sure I did not screw up! Now that I am around some
other pilots with other training I can really appreciate
the solid foundation you provided in both launch
technique and safe flying.
I also wanted to tell
you how happy I am with my equipment. Everyone I have
met seems to agree that the Sting is the best wing for a
beginner. I am amazed to find myself pulling
off successful forward launches, when some other pilots
are having trouble getting off the ground. I have no
doubt that the Sting was the perfect wing for me to get
into this sport with.
The SD RDM engine you provided is
performing very well also. I have ample power to climb
and I have had no starting problems. Many veteran
pilots I have met have commented on the apparent quality
and sturdiness of the design. I also love how easy it is
to remove the cage. I have a topper on my truck and
I just remove the top half and slide the unit in to keep
it out of the weather. Recently there has been allot of
talk about problems with carabineers and its great
that with my SD and its backup system I don't have to
worry about that.
I have been flying every chance I get since I finished
training and have been getting together with a group of
guys in this area. In the process, I have seen one
pilot have his wing get wrapped up in the prop and one
destroy a prop and cage. Too bad these guys did not have
your equipment and training!
I am very happy to report
that all my flights have been successful and without
mishap (so far!) even though many of them have been in
less than ideal conditions. I can only attribute
my success to the quality instruction and the excellent
equipment you provide. Thanks again for helping me make
this happen, and keep on doing what you do so other
pilots can safely enjoy this sport as much as I am!
"It's hard to believe I've been flying now for a
year and a half (since September 2003).
Were it not for Paratour, it wouldn't have
happened.
Initially I emailed Eric Dufour and as he said
at the time, "If you have the desire to fly, I will train
you."
One has to
appreciate an Instructor that talks straight without being
vague or half hearted. That's Eric's
style.
When you're
tired and ready to give up and take a break, fall out or
fail, he coaxes one more try out of you. Mainly you
feel all the better for having done so and continued...
My words after my first solo flight "Se magnifique !!!",
with a huge smile.
Add to that the other half of Paratour, Eric's wife
Elisabeth, (skilled PPG pilot, Wing Maintenance
Technician, video editor, and business genius, as well
as a very stylish lady) and you have a one stop answer
to your PPG flying needs.
Did I mention Eric's line of SD Paramotors? Eric has a
motor range for the lightest to the heaviest pilot.
I fly an SD mini monster and haven't had so much as a
hint of a problem with it. The mini-monster
because I'm one of the heavier fliers at 260 lbs,
Paratour because I took good advice and liked what I saw
when I followed up on it.
You will too if you do the same. Don't hesitate to
email if you have questions.
"My thanks to Eric, Max, Patrick, Sebastian,
Elisabeth and Christiane who all helped me learn to
fly at Paramotion, Montreal last June.
We were hampered by high winds many of the days and
I certainly did not get enough flights in to feel
comfortable yet, but I flew and was able to do some
more flights in Connecticut last year.
I also thank
the CT PPGers for their help on many of my flights. Due to
family issues, I was not able to get as many flights in last
year as I had hoped, so I am definitely going to come back
to either Paramotion or Fly By Ranch for a refresher course
in 2005.
Special thanks to Eric for
his patience - I was a slow learner. Being a former GA
pilot and sky diver does not automatically make you a
proficient powered paraglider! I think your training must
be one of the best available in the world. I'm sure glad
that I stayed the extra day and was able to get 3 better
launches accomplished".
"Learning how to fly a Powered
Paraglider is a fun and exciting sport, but the training
process should be safely planned by a professional
instructor. In a sport that requires careful
attention and precise habits, I believe that shortcut
compromises should be avoided.
My training with Eric Dufour provided an excellent
experience. It was very enjoyable, safe,
and it moved me in a step-by-step approach of learning
at my own pace.
The techniques on how to kite and
control the glider, fly close to the ground with a tow line
for practice landings, sit in the harness of the hanging
motor simulator, and then put this all together to fly, are
all methodical and proven practices.
I have learned skills that help me be a safe
and consistent pilot, and I am very satisfied with my
training decision to go with Eric.
In getting my equipment, the motor and glider were
properly fit for my size, weight, and needs; and I
became familiar with my own equipment as I trained. The
motor and glider wing are made with quality
and reliability. I really like my equipment!
Eric is a hard-working innovator of this sport and has
helped Powered Paragliding advance to new levels of
professionalism. I have been watching and wanting to do
this for many, many years and I knew that I could not go
wrong training with Paratour.
"This is a thank you going all the way back to last year, for the
great hospitality, fabulous training, wonderful equipment and after
sales support.
My only regret is that the weather
here in Connecticut hasn't been very pleasant on the weekends I had
a chance to fly.
As soon as the weather warmed, I went to a UL friendly field in
Madison CT. I arrived shortly before 9
am to find a clear, beautiful
sky, a warm 4 - 5 mph breeze out
of the west and an open field.
Set up, pre-flighted and warmed
up the red SD, which purred in
anticipation. Forward launch
with the EZ Glider was a breeze,
airborne in 3 or 4 steps of full
power. Procedure turn left
to avoid the houses lining the
field and headed for the beach.
Air was like glass and did not
find a single bump all the way
up to 1500 feet. View was
wonderful, with the high ridges
just south of Hartford and New
Haven Harbor visible in the
distance. After a perfect hour,
return to the field for a easy
two-step landing.
Since then
I have put a total of 40 flights
in the log book, all safe, all
comfortable due to your
comprehensive training and
ultra-reliable SD RDM Lite.
My only
regret is that it took me 50
years to find this sport.
Again, thanks for helping to get
me safely into this.
"I
have great respect for Eric Dufour as a professional powered
paraglider instructor.
I investigated quite thoroughly the
various schools in North America that were providing PPG instruction.
Based on extensive reading on everything that I could find, I
discovered that the most qualified individual in the field is Eric
Dufour. I don't think there is another individual out there as
qualified as he.
I would like to say something about his
integrity. I scheduled a flight training week with Eric for the
week following the "Sun n' Fun Fly In" in Florida in April
2002. I met with Eric at the Fly In and we discussed my
reasons for wanting to learn to fly and own a PPG.
You’ve no doubt heard about people who have
O-D’d and thought they met God, well no
disrespect intended to “Her” divine
inspiration, but, Mr. Eric Dufour has been
an instrumental cog on my personal path to
spiritual enlightenment and manic nirvana.
Flying has changed my life and respect for
(almost) everything around me, from
consideration of close family and the
workplace, friends and journeys to
expectations and goals.
Safety in flight is what I gained from this
man, and it started with trusting the
equipment and understanding how to use it. The bookwork, simulator, ground-handling,
winch tows and running around with a motor
on my back made for good familiarity of
equipment and a solid prep for flight. It is
this teaching technique that I blame for
robbing me of that expected rush on my solo
flight. My solo flight just felt natural,
the rush and/or addiction to flight creeps
up on the well instructed pilot, I think
anyway.
Before meeting Eric, I had done some
shopping for equipment and teachers of this
sport. I thought I knew what I wanted but
took the advice of the guy I decided to
trust and sure glad I did… I watched another
guy fare differently for sticking with what
he thought he knew instead of following the
advice of a well rounded guru. Trust is the
main ingredient for the student and
purchaser of equipment and Eric Dufour knows
what you need despite the things you think
you want. After 8 days at his school in
Quebec, I headed home to fly alone, now
there are 7 other paramotors around me in 3
short years. After the sale, the service
was/is great – the cost of parts are
reasonable and they are sent without delay –
the advice continues to flow and I have only
good things to say about Mr. Dufour except
that he flies every day where I only wish I
could.
There seems to be a great gap between what
most people think about the dangers of this
sport and what I know as calculated risk.
Knowledge and understanding the limits of
our equipment are not all confined to the
classroom though, I have continued learning
and reading regularly because my instructor
does not fit in my tool box – too bad.
Understanding of the weather cannot be
taught except for the basics in a classroom,
this takes years unless you have absolutely
nothing else to do. So, if you’re like me,
you may only get 138 flights in a 3 year
stretch, but those flights are in benign
conditions and super enjoyable. People
wonder why and how anyone could climb so
high to shut their motor off and glide
without fear of dying – I tell them to get a
good instructor and the latest equipment and
join us on this wonderful journey above
ground level."
"I
have great respect for Eric Dufour as a professional powered
paraglider instructor. I investigated quite thoroughly the
various schools in North America that were providing PPG instruction.
Based on extensive reading on everything that I could find, I
discovered that the most qualified individual in the field is Eric
Dufour. I don't think there is another individual out there as
qualified as he.
I would like to say something about his
integrity. I scheduled a flight training week with Eric for the
week following the "Sun'Fun Fly In" in Florida in April
2002. I met with Eric at the Fly In and we discussed my
reasons for wanting to learn to fly and own a PPG.
Based on the information that I shared with Eric,
he frankly explained to me that PPG is not the ideal way for me
to go and that powered parachutes would be a better choice.
I was so impressed and thankful for his honesty. Not only
did Eric direct me elsewhere, but he even took some of his valuable
time to accompany me to evaluate the quality of a particular powered
parachute brand that I was interested in. Here is a man that
put his own interest aside to help another person.
This speaks volumes to me regarding his integrity. I now
fly a powered parachute and am enjoying it very much. I
anticipate a day in the future when I will want to learn to fly a
PPG, and when that day comes, I will be calling Eric Dufour.
Thank you Eric, and may God Bless You! "
"Paramotoring was not part of any of my dreams . . in
fact flying was not something that attracted me
really. After having met Elisabeth and Eric Dufour, I
started to watch and observe those "crazy
flyers" every weekend.
Eric Dufour being an excellent instructor, and having
the knack to see hidden talents in others, PROGRESSIVELY
trained me to the point of soloing (and believe me
patience he needed with me).
Needless to say that I
cannot stop flying since 1995. His patience, his
talent have made me an instructor since.
Thanks to Paratour in initiating me (and seeing
what I could not see at the time) to this extraordinary
sport and hoping for many more years of fun"!
"As
a well experienced PG pilot but neophyte PPG pilot,
I had to come to the "Mecca" of powered
paragliding to see for myself.........ie St-Jean-Chrysostome.
Both
Eric & Elisabeth were very welcoming upon my
initial arrival. Eric checked out my
paraglider and it seemed ok......but after
installing the new short risers on my Pro- design
Effect.......we were ready" to rock & roll" Trim
tabs do make a difference.
Eric
is not only a technically excellent flyer, but he
seems to add an artistic component as well.
His swoops and steep turns are a joy to watch and an
inspiration to all who aspire towards advanced flying goals.
Eric uses instructional metaphors
that stay with you long after you have departed. For example, I was
reminded that I needed to "make the motor my friend"....this
because we, PG pilots, are simply not used to having 55 lbs of
excitement on our backs & a throttle in the hand..... so,
understandably, this can generate some apprehensions.
As a PG pilot, I quickly learned that
what was acceptable ground handling for ridge soaring (always reverse
launches) was insufficient for motorized flat surface launches
(often forward launches). So the operative word
was..."practice, practice, practice".
When it comes to PPG, you can never
do enough ground handling. It is easy at times to get away with
sloppy launches when free flying, but it can be outright dangerous to
get into bad habits leading to sloppy launches when motoring. This
is where having an accomplished instructor who is able to give you
instant feedback via 2-way radio, can boost the 'ol learning
curve....... and Eric sure fits the bill in that regard!
Clearly, there are adjustments that
have to be made in switching to PPG from PG. Some are subtle and some are glaring. For example, forward
launches are no longer done by dropping your arms straight back in a delta formation and
dropping the upper body in a "charging bull" formation.
In PPG, this procedure would lead to a major launch malfunction.
In summary, I would strongly
encourage all my PG compadres out there who are contemplating powered paragliding, to get some serious quality
instruction from an instructor who appreciates the hurdles and challenges we, PG pilots,
face as we make the transition to another flying style/mode. If
you live in a flat terrain area, PPG can be just the ticket you need to
go thermal hopping to cloud base.
"I trained at Paratour's
school in Quebec in 1999, and have been hooked on PPG ever
since.
I find
Eric Dufour to be straight forward, hard working and honest.
If
ever I have a question regarding PPG he is there to help.
I have
called him on several occasions from my flying field and in
most cases the problem is resolved.
Eric takes his passion seriously
and teaches with safety being #1.
Paratour is a small family run
business. Both Eric and his wonderful wife Elisabeth, make an
excellent team.
Eric started me out on a Apco Prima 30 and now, with the proper
training and advise I got from Paratour, I fly a small Silex. A
fast and exciting wing.
Eric will stand behind his
word, he will offer continuing support.
Eric and Elisabeth are really
nice and sincere people, and will always make you feel welcome."
Phil
Clark, November 2001,
Pilot since September 1999 Barrie, Ontario, Canada propwash@rogers.com Web site:
www.PoweredParagliding.ca
"On April 6, 2000, I
purchased an SD 48 from Eric Dufour in Canada. I now have over
80 flights on the SD 48. Those 80 flights occurred in Florida,
Louisiana, Canada, Mississippi, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and
Montana! They ranged in altitude from to sea level to over well
over 6000 feet.
Every claim, promise, etc. that Eric Dufour made has been
fulfilled. It has met all of my expectations, all.
Eric's SD 48 (48" prop) is essentially a Fresh Breeze 48 with a
Solo 210, tuned exhaust, Bing carb, intake silencer, modified
cylinder for easy starting, etc. Eric then adds his own
sturdy frame and cage, floating j-bars, throttle and redrive -
Not so "essentially a Fresh Breeze" maybe.
Why did I choose the SD 48?
ERIC DUFOUR - It does not get much better than Eric Dufour,
Paratour CEO (Elisabeth) and company. Eric is a
conservative, honest man, with an excellent reputation.
THRUST - I wanted a lot of thrust, good climb rate. The SD has
the most thrust of any of the popular US paramotors except for
the heavier tandem units. Same as the Fresh Breeze 48.
QUIET - VERY quiet. I have
had many comments on how quiet the SD 48 is. I only know of one
other paramotor so quiet, but the thrust is noticeably less. I like flying low and not bothering people on the ground.
It
is important for me to not be restricted from beaches, public
parks, etc.
COMFORT - It is very comfortable
on my shoulders with the adjustable shoulder straps and in flight
with the floating j-bars. There is very little or no vibration.
I never notice the floating j-bars in flight.
STURDY - It is Very Sturdy.
RELIABILITY - I can't really
compare paramotors. There is a lot of hype out there. With this
feature I just decided to go with Eric Dufour's reputation and
years of experience. He tells the truth, too conservative maybe.
This was is latest version of what he thought was the best. To
date, my SD 48 has exceeded my expectations. I really like flying
it.
NO ELECTRIC START - I like
not having an electric start - no starter, batteries or wiring
to fail, no batteries to charge, no potential fire hazard. The
SD 48 is very easy to start on my shoulders and to restart in
flight. If Eric offered me a free starter with free installation,
I would say no. If he offered the same with NO weight or batteries
to charge, I would have to think about it, maybe not, it is so
easy to start.
BING CARB - It is very adjustable,
but you don't adjust it for every flight. Only a substantial
change in altitude or temperature requires any adjustment. Then
only about 2 to 4 minutes are required.
TORQUE - I have not experienced
any noticeable torque during launch or flight with the floating
j-bars.
QUICK, EASY ASSEMBLY - I was
impressed with the cage assembly. It is hard to describe, but
you have to squeeze the cage just right, then a perfect, sturdy,
vibration free fit. Eric uses 0-rings with each attachment. There
are simply 11 velcro's and 6 prop bolts, 3 to 4 minutes. With
my new MiniVan, only 4 or 5 velcro's with the top 2 sections
of the cage, less than a minute.
LARGE FUEL TANK - 11 liters
plus.
FUEL CONSUMPTION - About 3
liters per hour, but "your mileage may vary".
THROTTLE - Very comfortable
with a foam handle. It is adjustable in 2 ways, and mine is now
super.
WEIGHT - Fine since my first
paramotor was noticeably heavier. The reduced weight has been
welcome. But if the SD weighed more, it would be worth it for
all the advantages cited here.
LOOKS - Nice I think, but this
is surely a personal preference.
Mostly, I have cited some facts
here, not personal opinions. I am very pleased with the SD 48.
Thank you Eric and Company."
"Being a new pilot in the
sport of recreational aviation, I had some uncertainty about
the lessons and the equipment to purchase.
My reservations were
things like; is this motor the right one for me? Is it strong
enough? Safe enough? Quiet enough? Light enough?
Are there options
to fit my needs? By the time I left St-Jean-Chrysostome (the
field of Angels), I knew everything I was concerned about was
resolved and that Paratour was the place to be doing it.
It was from talking to other
past clients of Eric’s. It was from the confirmation of
other new clients that rest assured me that I was in good hands. The equipment and the lessons that Eric delivers are progressive
and top notch.
Grant Fitz,
November 1999 Toronto, Ontario, Canada fitzgr@yahoo.com
"Since my
childhood, one of my dreams was to fly. I have
discovered paramotor with Paratour by coincidence, watching
a video with people with a paraglider and a motor on the
back that could fly. I needed to know more had to try
it.
I have started my formation with
Paratour in summer '97, completed it in '98 and decided to
buy my paramotor in July '99. It is fantastic to be
able to fly!
Paratour's
professionalism and the quality of their service made of me
a satisfied customer since 3 years. The Paratour team
with Eric Dufour will make you discover the joy of flying in
total safety.
I could
tell you that if you want to fly a paramotor, I recommend
you Paratour. I could tell you also that I talked with
many satisfied customers, but do not believe on my words
only: Come to meet the Paratour people, make your own
mind and and who knows, maybe we will meet there. You
will recognize me easily: I have a motor on my back, a
paraglider over my head and I fly!" :-)
"All my life I had a very strong
desire to fly. I even went so far as to take several
fixed and rotary wing lessons. In the fall of 1995, on
a business trip to Florida, I experienced my first encounter
with a powered paraglider. The feeling that came over
me was incredible. I wanted to know more about
learning to fly this new and exciting aerial sport. I
wanted to fly a powered paraglider. I had kept in
contact with the PPG pilot and then one day in September
1998, I made the commitment.
I asked the
pilot who was the best PPG instructor in the world and he
said without hesitation - Eric Dufour. He went to tell
me that Eric lives and instructs in Quebec, Canada.
I made the
necessary arrangements and within a matter of days I was
ground handling the "big Horse". After making a good
ground handling progress and after several towed flights - I
soloed.
After several
more radio controlled solo flights, my training was complete
and I returned home to Southern California.
I
can't say enough positive comments about Eric's skills and
professionalism for safe training. His techniques
should be considered the industry standard. Eric's
training has created a very solid foundation and his passion
for flying was contagious.
After
returning home, I called Eric and ordered a SD unit from
Canada. The SD paramotor uses a Fresh Breeze motor from
Germany and a custom Canadian built protective cage.
The SD is one of the best made paramotors in the world - bar
none. Its safe, simple in design, powerful, and
important for southern California's beaches - quiet."
"I've logged over 600
flights for a total of 330 hours in my paramotor in the past
3 years. Thanks to the Canadian Paratour team. From the first solo on,
they stand behind their product. Anyone who is serious about
getting into this sport should research what Paratour has to
offer. They will not only get you flying.... their after sales
service support will keep you flying !"
Bruce F. Erion, February 1998
Atlanta, Georgia bferion@aol.com
"My Powered Paragliding
fantasy began in March of 1993 with a short segment featured
on Inside Edition. Now 5 years later, I have 26 non-powered and
44 powered flights logged with a lot more to come.
I have searched for over four
years to find the right paraengine dealer and instructor that
was trust worthy, honest, knowledgeable and experienced. By surprise,
I found that there are some questionable companies offering expensive
equipment without the proper instruction and training.
In Quebec, Eric Dufour of PARATOUR and
his staff, assisted me with the proper training, confidence,
and knowledge to fly a powered Paraglider safely. Eric and his
staff later assisted me in determining the proper size and model
that was right for my first engine.
The Dufour's and the staff of
PARATOUR have always been a pleasure to do business with, as
well as, know as friends. As always, fly safely and " THANK YOU PARATOUR ! "
"I started my course November
8, 1997... A day in my life I will never forget. Eric Dufour
is so passionate in is teaching but at the same time he makes
you understand that flying is a serious matter and that you have
to respect all the limits. And then you have no other choice
than to respect Eric Dufour and fall deeply in love with Paramotor."
"I have known Eric Dufour
since the 1992 spring. We have flown and taught many people in
many countries. Eric Dufour is the best pilot I've had the chance
to meet and I have great respect for Eric with everything concerning
paramotor. In business, he is someone who always puts the
client first."
Francesco de Santis, February 1998 Certified instructor USHGA, ASC U-CAN-FLY-2 Owner, Tampa, Florida, USA FCHECK@aol.com
"I first met Eric in April
1995 when he very kindly came all the way out from Quebec to
British Columbia and taught me to use my paramotor which I had
just purchased.
Eric, who is French, was very articulate and careful with his
teaching and displayed an obvious mastery of the unique art of
flying the paramotor and an understanding of the flying machine
that comes only with personal experience.
He was able to
impart volumes of pearls of wisdom while the weather was bad
and demonstrate and teach with all the patience in the world
when it came to the practical part.
Although' I have been flying hangliders since 1974, ultralight flying since 1985 and paragliding
since 1991, I found Eric's attitude and knowledge
very reassuring and professional. I have been enjoying my paramotor
flying ever since.
But one of the most outstanding
things about Eric, is that he has kept in contact and kept up
encouragement long after his teaching was over!
I would highly recommend Eric to anyone who wishes to use Eric's
services."
Dr David Paisley, February 1998
British Columbia, Canada pmedical@vip.net
