Joanna James
While water sports are all the rage in most holiday destinations and beach capitals around the world, thrill-seekers are stepping up their game by delving into adrenalin-pumping airborne activities. Here are some of the best ways to have a grand time in the skies.
Often described as one of the most romantic activities for couples, hot air ballooning can be an adventurous excursion into the unknown. Catch a bird's eye view of diverse landscapes in this one of a kind adventure that can be enjoyed as a group.
Although one won't be taking to the skies in a literal sense, drone racing is an exciting and thrilling way to enjoy an airborne adventure while using state of the art FPV technology. Employing gear that pilots use, drone races are usually conducted on a set route so the machines can fly as fast as possible.
Also known as Aerial Acrobatics, Aerobatics are for experienced pilots who can put their skills to the test by performing difficult manoeuvres at higher altitudes. Tail spins and other visually stunning acrobatics are performed among the clouds in this airborne activity that's reserved for experienced flyers.
As a popular airborne sport, hang gliding allows participants to fly a non-motorised plane, which is known as a hang glider. Launching off from towering hills, the wind propels the riders across vast terrains using the power of air currents.
Ranked as an extreme sporting activity, Wingsuit flyers must don a special jumpsuit that is fitted with leg wings and arm wings. Also known as a birdman suit, the Wingsuit is used by avid skydivers to increase the amount of time they spend in freefall by capturing the wind in the suit to slow down the descent speed.
As an international sport, air racing involves racing aircraft across transcontinental or cross country lines to determine who can navigate the set course the fastest.
Gliding is another daredevil sport for those with a pilot licence. The challenge where gliding is concerned is the ability to fly a plane that's been emptied of its engine by relying solely on wind power. Often described as the activity that brings humans to experience a similar sensation to a bird in flight, it is not for the faint of heart.
Parachuting can be performed by jumping off an aircraft or a high point such as a cliff or mountain and involves freefalling with the support of a parachute. Those who are looking to experience an air adventure will find that parachuting is among the top contenders listed on The Adventure Travel blog and other travel websites.
Parachuted skydivers performing all manner of aerial acrobatics above a lake or the ocean surface with an aircraft is called Canopy Piloting. Also known as swooping, this sport requires a great amount of accuracy and depth perception.
Fun and engaging, paragliding also relies on the kite-like apparatus above one's head to keep one off the ground.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
