Getting a paragliding licence in Slovenia

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Most of my passengers ask me about the process of getting into paragliding and how to obtain a paragliding licence. It’s always a great feeling when someone who flew with me decides to pursue their licence and starts flying solo – it’s something special to witness. For those of you still considering it, here’s how the process works in Slovenia:
Getting a paragliding licence in Slovenia involves structured training, consistent flying, and solid decision-making. Here’s a breakdown of how to go from your first takeoff to holding your licence.

Choosing a school

Your choice of school plays a major role in shaping your skills and habits as a pilot. Look for instructors with strong flying experience who teach both theory and practice in balance. It helps to train at locations suitable for both beginners and more advanced flying, ideally with modern equipment and small group sizes.

There are many paragliding schools located throughout Slovenia. Use Google, or even better, if you know some pilots, ask them about their experiences.

Beginners course

The beginners course introduces you to flying basics: ground control, launching, and your first solo flights. It typically includes at least 25 low-altitude flights and 5 higher-altitude flights, each with a minimum of 300 m of vertical gain.

You’ll spend a lot of time on ground handling – learning how to control the wing in various wind conditions – as well as studying the basics of weather, flying techniques, and equipment use. There’s no formal exam. When your instructor feels you’re safe and consistent, you can move on.

Advanced course – flying independently

In the advanced course, you work toward flying on your own. This part of the training includes at least 50 higher-altitude flights and introduces more technical aspects of paragliding.

You’ll learn how to stay in the air longer by using thermals and ridge lift, how to plan routes, and how to respond to unexpected situations. Emergency maneuvers like collapses and spirals are covered, and you’ll sharpen your ability to read conditions and make sound decisions in flight.

When your instructor is confident in your ability to fly safely and make good calls, they’ll sign off your training. That’s when you’re ready to apply for your licence.

Getting your licence

The application process is mostly paperwork. You submit your training log and instructor’s confirmation. Once approved, you get your paragliding licence and are cleared for solo flights in designated areas.

It’s important to understand the licence is just a document. Skill and judgment come from flying regularly and reflecting on your experience. The learning never stops.

How long does it take

Paragliding is very dependent on weather, especially in the early stages. Beginners need the safest and most stable conditions, which means flying opportunities can be limited. While completing 50 flights may not sound like much, the reality is more complex.

You need to coordinate good weather with your personal schedule, your instructor’s availability, and sometimes group logistics. It’s not uncommon for progress to pause for weeks due to unsuitable conditions.

Most students take between 1 to 2 years to go from their first lesson to obtaining a licence. Those with more flexible time and consistent conditions may finish faster, but for many, it’s a steady long-term process.

Costs

The total cost varies, but here’s a general idea:

• The beginner course costs around €350.
• The advanced course is roughly €550.
• A full set of gear (wing, harness, reserve, helmet) costs between €3,000–€5,000 if new. Used gear is cheaper but must be checked carefully before purchase.
• Other expenses include transport, club memberships, and optional insurance.

Most students rent gear during training and buy their own setup once they’re licensed or when they start with altitude flying.

Stay sharp – safety and progress

Getting your licence is a milestone, not the finish line. Paragliding requires continuous learning.

Always inspect your gear before flying, and take time to understand the day’s weather. Plan your flights with clear goals and escape routes. Emergencies can and do happen, so regular practice of maneuvers like collapses and reserve deployments is key.

An SIV (Simulation d’Incident en Vol) course is one of the best ways to boost your skills in a controlled environment. Every pilot should do one at least once – and ideally, repeat it regularly.

Final thoughts

Earning your paragliding licence opens the door to a lifetime of flight, but it’s only the beginning. Real skill comes with time, patience, and a commitment to continuous learning.

If you’re curious about paragliding but unsure whether it’s for you, my advice is simple: try the beginners course. In the worst case, you’ll invest a bit of money in a unique experience. In the best case, you’ll discover a lifelong hobby – or even a new way of life.