Below are some frequently asked questions on the topics of Safety, Flying, Costs and Service maintenance.
Yes
Are Aerochutes safe to fly in?
You fly down as a parachute would and flare the canopy before landing.
What happens if the engine stops?
You can still land safely.
What happens if my parachute rips?
No
Have there ever been a fatality whilst flying an Aerochute Hummerchute?
Anytime the wind is less then 15 knots. Best times are in the morning or evening.
When should I fly?
Wear warm clothes or a flying suit.
What should I wear when I fly?
Yes
Do I need a helmet?
Taking off in strong winds and tipping the Aerochute over on the ground.
What are the most common accidents that occur?
The Aerochute is a group D ultra light, registered with the Recreation Aviation Australia (RAA).
Is an Aerochute an aircraft or an ultra light?
Up to 60 km/h.
How fast do they fly?
The legal limit is 5000 ft, 1524 metres.
How high do they fly?
Up to 3 hrs flying.
How long can they fly?
White Gum Farm near York, WA
Where do you do the trial flights and training?
7 days a week depending on weather. Flying times are between sunrise - 9.00am.
When do you do the trial flights and training?
Legally 300 ft or lower with permission from the property owner.
What is the lowest altitude I can fly at?
2 persons with combined weight of 200 kg for Aerochute Dual or 240kg in the Hummerchute.
How many people can the Aerochute fly?
Recreation Aviation Australia (RAA) group D power parachute certficate.
What kind of license do I need for flying an Aerochute?
Yes. Once you have 30 hours flying experience and have passed a passenger endorsement exam.
Can I fly with a passenger?
No
Can I fly over the city?
Yes. Up to 15 knots.
Can I fly if its windy?
Outside controlled airspace and with permission from the property owner.
Where should I fly?
Not inside controlled airspace, not over a town and at least 500 metres from town boundary.
Where shouldn't I fly?
Wear warm clothes or a flying suit. No loose clothing should be worn including scarves.
What do I need to wear when I fly?
Yes
Is the Aerochute Civil Aviation Safety Australia (CASA) approved?
Yes. A National Aerochute competition held annually each Easter.
Are there any Aerochute competitions?
Yes. As it uses four attachment points which makes flight very stable.
Is the Aerochute stable and comfortable to fly?
Take-off distance is 150 metres. Generally a football sized area is ample room for safe takeoff and landings.
How much space do I need for take off?
For their enjoyment and ease of use. Safety, affordability, portability and fullfilling a life long dream to fly.
Why do people buy an Aerochute?
The price can vary with the accessories you add so please contact us for a complete price.
How much are the Aerochutes to buy?
$195 for a standard 15mins flight and $345 for a 25min deluxe flight which including lesson on how to land and take off.
How much do trial flights cost?
Please contact us for details.
How much does it cost to get a pilots license?
Yes. You get a discount off the price (not inc pilot conversions).
If I get my license and buy an Aerochute do you give a special price?
Please contact us for details.
How much are new parachutes?
Please contact us for all accessories enquiries.
What accessories do you sell? How much are they?
Open trailers are approx. $1450. Enclosed trailers up to $4500.
How much is the trailer needed to tow the Aerochute?
Yes
Can I pay my Aerochute off in regular installments?
The Aerochute is manufactured in Melbourne Australia.
Where are the Aerochute's made?
Waiting periods are 2 - 4 weeks once an order is placed.
How long do they take to make?
Yes. 12 months warranty on frame and parachute, and 6 months on the engine.
Is there a manufacturer's warranty for the Aerochute?
Please contact us to order spare parts.
Where do I purchase spare parts?
Yes. This may take longer to manufacture and has an additional cost.
Can I choose my own colors for the parachute?
Yes, but this will incur an additional costs and time.
Can I choose my own text and/or logo to be placed on the parachute?
Mz202 63Hp or Hirth 65Hp engine
What kind of engine powers the Aerochute?
On a trailer or in a Ute.
How do I transport the Aerochute?
Yes. To protect it from weather.
Does my Aerochute need to be stored under cover?
Every 25 hours for spark plugs. Every 100 hours gear oil, air filter and fuel filter and for parachute inspection.
How often do I service my Aerochute?
Yes. The basic engine service such as changing spark plug and oil can be serviced by yourself. The parachute must be serviced by Aerochute Industries or qualified rigger.
Can I service the Aerochute myself?
Powered Parachutes Australia
White Gum Farm Airpark
680 Cameron Rd
York WA 6302
info@westsideaviation.com.au
0408 923 710