Paragliding World Cup in Himachal flagged off

The AAI Paragliding World Cup got underway with the Union Minister of Civil Aviation, P Gajapati Raju flagging off the pilots from the Billing launch site for the official practice on Saturday. Despite slightly overcast conditions, the pilots took to the skies amidst cheers of encouragement from the crowd that thronged Billing since early morning.    

With most of the 130 pilots representing more than 35 countries taking part in the AAI Paragliding World Cup arriving at Bir, the mecca of aero-sport in the country wore a festive look. 

Before flagging off, the minister praised the organisers and the participants. “The picturesque setting of Bir Billing provides a perfect backdrop for the biggest aero sport event in the country. It’s heartening to see such an enthusiastic participation and I am sure both the organisers and participants will do their best to preserve the beauty of the place. I also congratulate the state government for their wholehearted support for the World Cup,” said Raju.

This World Cup is the biggest sporting event in terms of international participation and the number of sportspersons.