Powered Parachute Information

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A powered parachute, often abbreviated PPC, and also called a motorized parachute or paraplane, is a type of aircraft that consists of a parafoil with a motor and wheels. The aircraft’s airspeed is typically about 25–35 mph. PPCs operate safely at heights ranging from a few feet off the ground to altitudes as high as 10,000+ ft, but typical operating heights are between 500 and 1500 feet above ground level (AGL). Equipped with a 5-15 gallon fuel tank, PPCs can typically be flown for about three hours before requiring refueling. They have very short take-off and landing rolls, sometimes less than 100 ft (30 m).

There is no minimum altitude for Powered Parachutes, except a height the pilot can safely land without hazard to persons or property on the surface.  You may not act as pilot in command (PIC) of a lightsport aircraft powered parachute unless you hold a pilot certificate with a powered parachute rating issued by the FAA. At this time the only pilot certificates with powered parachute ratings are Student, Sport and Private.  

The powered parachute has some unique operating characteristics as compared to other light-sport aircraft.

Download FAA Handbook on Powered Parachutes