in 1964 domina jalbert invented the first modern paraglide, with the invention of the ram air canopy, which was tested by nasa for rocket recovery, as well as adventure seekers, who wanted to try and fly without the use of an airplane.

although paragliders do not use engines, flights can last up to several hours depending on weather conditions . flight is maintained by aiming the paraglider towards hot air currents and updrafts - these weather patterns can be predicted by any pilot familiar with wind currents, and as long as the pilot stays near hilly cliffs, and heat updrafts, he will not lose altitude.