The mix of grassy hills and strong, steady winds from the sea and land makes Mayo a paradise for hang gliding.

The unspoilt countryside is a largely untapped resource for handglider ‘pilots’ as this sport is in its fledgling state in Ireland.

An exhilarating air sport, hang glidiing requires skill and bravery as a pilot launches a light, unmotorised aircraft and flies by using the wind as power and shifting body weirght to steer.

With many rural areas free from overhead powerlines, forestry and other obstacles such as tall buildings, Mayo and the west of Ireland is well equipped to take off as a hang gliding destination.

The green grassy fields that form the beautiful natural landscape of Ireland also provide a safe landing when the pilot makes the descent to ground level.