Bastienne Wentzel is a professional science writer, editor of Lift magazine and assistant pilot instructor based in the Netherlands. A few years ago she became frustrated with the lack of comprehensive, correct information available for newer pilots trying to learn to fly and decided to write an instructional book in Dutch. It was such a hit that the team at Cross Country magazine, headed up by Ed Ewing decided to take three years re-writing and editing her original book in English. The magnificent result has just been published. The book is absolutely packed with tips, illustrations, and expert advice to help newer pilots learn the A to Z’s of learning to fly safely. From the history of the sport, to gear, understanding aerology, the fundamentals of flight, meteorology, getting licensed, understanding airspace and more it’s all presented in an easy-to-understand and highly readable format. This show is dedicated to Bastienne’s book and our listeners who are just taking flight and learning the ropes. Enjoy!
Find out more here: https://beginnersguidetoparagliding.com
And PLEASE take our podcast survey here that I speak about in the opener (win Patagonia schwag or a The Beginner’s Guide book!)
Show Notes: 

* How the book came to be
* Bastienne’s history and becoming an instructor, and the lack of a proper instructional books
* The various chapters and what’s available
* Meteorology and aerology
* What Bastienne has learned in her years in the sport

Mentioned in the Show: Jeff Shapiro, Ed Ewing, Cross Country Magazine, Greg Hammerton, Hugh Miller, Bruce Goldsmith, Kelly Farina