Hang gliding in Maui is the ultimate Hawaii adventure! After experiencing it myself, I have created a full guide with everything you need to know to experience this epic activity.
If you are looking for an epic adventure that allows you to see the beautiful island of Maui in a unique way, then look no further. Hang gliding in Maui is one of the best adventurous things to do on the island. Glide over the mountainous landscapes, soar through the clouds, discover beautiful waterfalls from above, and witness stunning views of the sparkling pacific ocean. A flight over these stunning landscapes is nothing short of exhilarating!
In this post, you’ll get a complete breakdown of all the information you need to know to experience this adventure of a lifetime. Starting with who to book with, the type of aircraft you’ll be flying in, prices, how to prepare, and more, here is the ultimate guide to hang gliding in Maui.
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Everything You Need to Know To Experience Hang Gliding in Maui
What is Hang Gliding?
Hang gliding is an adventure sport where the flyer uses a triangular-shaped glider to soar through the sky. Controlled by a bar that is connected to the wing, a traditional hang glider uses the power of air currents and the wind to propel itself through the sky. Nowadays, the sport has evolved and you can find hang gliding apparatuses with an engine on them for a safer and more sustained flight. With these longer flights, you are able to soar to new heights and explore the landscape from above.
How to Book Your Hang Gliding in Maui Adventure
Unlike other popular destinations, Maui does not have multiple tour operators running these thrill-seeking adventures on the island. In fact, there is only one company that offers this epic adventure, called Hang Gliding Maui. Hang gliding Maui is a family-owned and operated business that has offered hang gliding experiences since 1990. Run primarily by owner Armin Engert, Hang Gliding Maui offers tandem flights and lessons in his ultra-light aircraft. Armin has over 20,000 hours of flight time experience and advertises a 100% safety record. Along with the stunning views you’ll receive gliding through the sky, Armin offers interactive flight lessons to those interested throughout the experience! You can book a hang gliding experience with him through his website!
What to Expect Hang Gliding in Maui – Type of Aircraft
The hang gliding in Maui differs from the traditional gliders where you propel yourself off a cliff supported by the wind alone. You will be flying in what is referred to as an ultra-light or micro-light aircraft which is essentially a hang glider with a small powered engine and a spot to sit. Instead of running off a cliff to gain momentum in this case, you will actually take off from a landing strip. Specifically, the aircraft you’ll be flying in is known as an Airborne XT 912.
Hang gliding Maui also offers the opportunity to fly in an autogyro, which is built entirely differently than the powered hang gliding aircraft. At a slightly higher price, the auto gyro offers a roomier seat and unobstructed views around you. It more resembles a helicopter tour than hang gliding but is another fantastic way to experience the thrill and see Maui from above. However, no matter the aircraft you choose you are going to be in for a ride of a lifetime!
What to Expect – Taking Flight
When arriving at the landing strip for your hang gliding experience, you won’t have to go through any real training in advance. As a completely beginner-friendly activity, all you’ll need to do is fill out a bit of personal information on a waiver, get fitted into a flight suit, and then go over a few minor instructions. From there you’ll be off into the sky! Only one person can ride at a time.
Who Can Take Part in This Adventure Sport?
You do not need to have any experience with hang gliding or ultra-light flights to enjoy this experience in Maui. You will take a tandem flight with an experienced professional, so all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride! The only requirements relate to age, where anyone between the ages of 12 and 92 is able to take flight.
The best part is that if you are interested, Armin will give you mini-flight lessons along the way, explaining how he operates the aircraft. You’ll even get a little certificate at the end stating that you’ve completed some flight hours.
How Long Are You Airborne and the Price to Fly
How long you are airborne will depend on the amount of time you purchase to be in the air! Hang Gliding Maui offers flights of 30, 45, and 60 minutes. Flights in the powered hang glider, or micro-light flyer, start at $240 for 30 minutes. Flights in the auto gyro start at $260. The price increases respectively for the longer air times. Hang Gliding Maui also offers photo and video packages for capturing some excellent digital shots of the experience to take home.
Where is Hang Gliding Maui Located
Hang gliding Maui is located in Hana, along the road to Hana. They are specifically in the Hana airport and are really easy to find using google maps.
Hang Gliding Maui Review
When I visited Maui, I wanted to find an adventurous activity that would get my blood pumping. I checked out Hang Gliding Maui and decided to take a 30-minute flight. I have nothing but amazing things to say about the experience! Armin was a friendly and engaging instructor who put my mind at ease. The flight was absolutely breathtaking and one of the best things I did in Maui. I also purchased the photo package and was delighted to see the stunning photos that turned out.
How to Prepare for Your Hang Gliding Experience in Maui
Weather conditions
Hang Gliding Maui is located in Hana, which experiences excellent flying weather year-round. The area of Hana experiences drastically different weather conditions from other portions of Maui even on the same day, including less wind. As a result, it is pretty uncommon to have to cancel your hang gliding flight due to weather-related problems. However, I would definitely recommend adding a buffer day into your itinerary that could work as a backup flight day just in case.
What to Wear/Bring
You don’t need to bring anything besides comfortable clothes and proper closed-toed shoes for your flight. Hang Gliding Maui will provide a flight suit that you will wear over your street clothes.
Motion sickness
Hang gliding Maui advertises that their flights are free from motion sickness. As someone who gets violently ill from your average road driving, I can attest. The ultra-light flight glides smoothly through the sky and I never once experienced any issues with motion sickness.
Other Things to Do in Hana
After experiencing the thrill and wonderous sights on your hang-gliding trip, there are plenty of other things to do nearby. The airport is conveniently located in Hana, which is the perfect place to spend some time exploring.
1. The Road to Hana
Conveniently located along one of Maui’s most popular attractions, the road to Hana is an excellent scenic driving experience! Depending on where you are staying on the island, you might drive the road to Hana to get there. If not, then I strongly encourage you to drive down the road to Hana after your flight. On this beautiful drive, you’ll witness staggering cliffs, lush green valleys, numerous waterfalls right at the side of the road, and hiking spots to stop along the way.
2. Wai’anapanapa State Park and Black Sand Beach
This beautiful state park in Hana offers the only black sand beach on the entire island! With dramatic coastlines, lava formations, hiking trails, and a hidden swimming hole, this is the perfect natural environment to explore after your hang-gliding adventure!
3. Go Snorkeling in Hana bay
With shallow waters making it the perfect spot for snorkellers of all experience levels, Hana bay is a great spot to see some stunning underwater sea life. As a popular family destination, Hana bay offers facilities to make your afternoon at the beach more comfortable!
4. Hana Fresh Farm Stand
Farm stands are popular all over the island of Maui and the Hana fresh farm stand is one of the best! Offering locally grown organic produce, the Hana farm stand also offers delicious fruit smoothies, island coffee, and even a lunch menu. Not only is the food fresh and delicious, but you’ll also be helping to support the local farming communities in Maui. This is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat after your adventure in the sky!
Final Thoughts on Hang Gliding in Maui
Hang gliding in Maui is an unforgettable experience like no other. Not only is it an absolute thrill soaring amongst the clouds, but you’ll also get to witness the most stunning scenery and explore Maui in a completely unique way. With an engine-powered micro-light aircraft, you’ll have the peace of mind to enjoy this amazing experience without any elevated risks. Plus there are several other exciting things to do nearby making the trip to Hana that much more worth it. Happy adventuring!
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