APPI POWER CERTIFIED
LEARN TO FLY A PARATRIKE
Professional training from complete beginner to internationally certified APPI ParaTrike Pilot. 1000+ students trained across 3 continents.
Professional training from complete beginner to internationally certified APPI ParaTrike Pilot. 1000+ students trained across 3 continents.
FlyParatrike offers professional APPI ParaTrike training led by a Master Instructor — the highest certification level in the APPI system. With over 20 years of flying experience across three continents and more than 1,000 students trained, you're in expert hands.
All courses follow the official APPI ParaTrike Training Syllabus — a comprehensive, step-by-step programme designed to take students from their very first day to certified pilot status in a safe and professional environment.
Training takes place at our base in Murtosa, Portugal 🇵🇹 — with Bornos, Spain 🇪🇸 coming in the second half of 2026.
Your introduction to paratrike flying. From ground handling and theory through tandem lessons to your first solo flight.
Advanced theory, progressive flight programme, cross-country navigation, and your APPI Pilot certification.
Course 1 takes you from zero to your first solo flight in 6 days. Course 2 builds on that with advanced theory, navigation, and cross-country flights — earning your APPI Pilot certification.
Both courses can be taken back-to-back (12 days total) or separately to fit your schedule.
SEE FULL SYLLABUSYour training is led by Ricardo Maciel, an APPI Power Master Instructor — the highest certification level in the APPI system. With over 20 years of flying experience across three continents and more than 1,000 students trained, Ricardo is one of the most experienced paramotor and paratrike instructors in the world.
A seasoned expedition leader, he has organised and led large-scale international projects across South America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East — from the Amazon to the UAE. Certified as both Paramotor and Paratrike Master Instructor and Tandem, he brings calm, decisive leadership and a structured, safety-first approach to every course.
Only school in Portugal with an APPI Power Master Instructor — the highest certification level in the system.
1000+ students trained across 3 continents — unmatched international teaching experience.
International expedition experience from the Amazon to the UAE — real-world flying expertise.
Structured, safety-first APPI methodology — every flight planned, every step guided.
Maximum 4 students per training block — personalised attention at every stage.
Direct instruction from the most experienced ParaTrike instructor in Portugal — every session, every flight.
"I was genuinely nervous on day one — I'd never flown anything before, not even a drone. But Ricardo has this calm, reassuring way of teaching that puts you at ease immediately. By day three I was doing ground runs confidently, and when I did my first solo flight on day five, I honestly couldn't believe it was me up there. The whole course is brilliantly structured — you never feel rushed, but you're always progressing. I came home with my Open Sky certificate and a completely new passion. Already booked Course 2 for next year!"
"I'd been flying paragliders for a few years and wanted to move into powered flight. Ricardo's knowledge is extraordinary — he doesn't just teach you the mechanics, he explains the 'why' behind everything. The cross-country flights in Course 2 were the highlight for me, navigating over the Portuguese countryside at 1,500 feet. His attention to safety is second to none, but he also makes every session genuinely enjoyable. Walking away with my APPI Pilot certification felt like a real achievement. If you're serious about learning to fly a paratrike, there's nowhere better."
"At 58, I thought I might be too old to start something like this. I couldn't have been more wrong. The paratrike is surprisingly comfortable — you're seated the entire time, so it's not physically demanding at all. Ricardo was patient, professional, and adapted the teaching to my pace. The tandem flights early on gave me the confidence I needed, and Murtosa itself is a beautiful place to train — flat terrain, great weather, and stunning views from the air. My wife took photos of me flying overhead and still can't believe it. Best holiday I've ever had — and I got a qualification out of it!"
Take the first step towards the freedom of flight. Contact us today to discuss your training options.
No! Our courses are designed for complete beginners. You'll progress from ground school to your first solo flight with full instructor support.
APPI (Association of Paratrike Pilots and Instructors) is the international body responsible for licensing ParaTrike pilots, tandem pilots, and instructors worldwide. Your APPI certification is recognized globally.
All training equipment is provided — paratrike, wing, helmet, and radio. Just bring comfortable outdoor clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
We need calm to light wind conditions (under 10mph) for training flights. Our experienced instructor monitors conditions continuously and schedules flights for optimal safety.
Course 1 (Open Sky + Adventure Pilot) takes 6 days. Course 2 (Pilot Level) takes another 6 days. You can do both consecutively in 12 days.
Our primary base is in Murtosa, Portugal. We're expanding to Bornos, Spain in the second half of 2026.
Yes! After Course 1 you receive your APPI Open Sky certificate which allows you to fly in calm conditions at approved sites.
Safety is our priority. If weather conditions are unsuitable, we adjust the schedule. Ground school and theory sessions continue regardless of weather.
A typical day includes a morning session (~3 hours) and an afternoon session (~3 hours), with a midday break. On good weather days, we often train all day to maximise your flying time. The schedule is flexible — we adapt to conditions to give you the best possible experience.