FAA Exemption #4721
FAA Tandem Exemption 4721: Original
FAA Tandem Exemption 4721: Current Extension
FAA Tandem Exemption 4721: Wallet Card
USHPA approved tandem launch sites characteristics document
Basis for the FAA's Decision
By letter dated July 18, 2022, you petitioned the FAA on behalf U.S. Hang Gliding and
Paragliding Association, Inc., (USHPA) for an extension to Exemption No. 4721R. That
exemption from § 103.1(a) and (b) of Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) allows
USHPA to operate unpowered ultralight vehicles (hang gliders and paragliders) weighing less
than 155 pounds, with another occupant, for the purpose of training.
Conditions and Limitations
1. This exemption is limited to § 103.1(a) and (b) only. Each flight must comply with all other sections of part 103.
2. All flights operating under this exemption must be for training purposes only. This exemption applies only to flights for the purpose of giving instruction in two-place unpowered ultralight vehicles from USHPA-approved launch sites to provide student with basic skills necessary for safe flight. There is no training program requirement found in part 103, so training should provide sufficient understanding of information provided in the FAA Pilots Handbook and Powered Parachute Handbook as applicable to part 103 operations.
3. Both occupants on all two-place training flights must possess a current pilot rating issued by the USHPA and at least one occupant must possess a current USHPA Tandem Instructor rating, or be in training for an Initial Tandem Instructor rating.
4. Prior to all two-occupant training flights, the student must be informed that the flight is conducted under an exemption granted by the FAA and that the ultralight vehicle does not meet aircraft certification standards set forth by the FAA.
5. For identification purposes, the USHPA shall issue an individual authorization to each person allowed to conduct operations under this exemption. Each authorization shall include an identification number and a copy of this exemption. The USHPA shall also have a procedure to rescind this authority when needed.
6. Each individual who operates an ultralight vehicle under the authority of this exemption must be familiar with the provisions contained herein and must have in his or her personal possession a copy of the authorization issued by the USHPA and a copy of this exemption. These documents shall be presented for inspection upon request by the FAA.
7. This exemption is not valid for operations outside of the United States.
Notes Regarding the Above Conditions
1. Recreational Flights
The FAA has outlined the following limitation: “All flights operating under this exemption must be for training purposes only.” This condition disallows purely recreational tandem flights between Tandem 1-rated pilots (T1) and H2/P2 pilots and above. However, T1 pilots that are in training for their Tandem Instructor Certification may fly with pilots rated H2/P2 and above for training purposes only.
2. Training Materials
As part of the instructional requirement, the FAA has specified training materials to be used for tandem students. The exemption states, “There is no training program requirement found in part 103, so training should provide sufficient understanding of information provided in the FAA Pilots Handbook and Powered Parachute Handbook as applicable to part 103 operations.” Tandem students may find pertinent information on this page , but we request that Tandem Instructors make these resources available to students and integrate the part 103 relevant aspects of these materials into all tandem instructional training.