Soaring High: Top Paragliding and Hang Gliding Flights from January 11, 2026

Welcome to Volandoo, the world’s foremost live tracking platform for paragliding and hang gliding enthusiasts. This past week saw a thrilling total of 536 flights logged worldwide, with pilots pushing their boundaries in XC flying, free distance challenges, and out-and-back courses. From the soaring thermals over Forbes Airfield to daring hike & fly feats, our community’s diverse flying styles continue to inspire and impress. Join us as we celebrate six standout flights that exemplify skill, endurance, and the spirit of adventure across some of the most iconic sites.

Rich Reinauer’s Majestic 264 km Free Distance Around 3 Turnpoints at Forbes Airfield

Rich Reinauer delivered an extraordinary performance gliding 263.98 km over a challenging route weaving through three tactical turnpoints at Forbes Airfield. Piloting his trusted Moyes Rx 3.5, Rich maintained an impressive thermal count of 69 over 5 hours and 33 minutes of continuous flight, showcasing remarkable stamina and precision. The complexity of sustaining lift across varied terrain makes this flight a stellar example of advanced XC strategy and flawless execution. This accomplishment not only boosts Rich's reputation but also demonstrates the Moyes Rx 3.5’s exceptional performance in demanding cross-country conditions.

Neale Halsall’s Precision and Endurance Ignite Another 260 km XC Classic

Just shy of Reinauer’s feat, Neale Halsall soared 260.03 km on a similar three-turnpoint free distance route at Forbes Airfield. Flying his Moyes Rx 3.5 Pro, Neale mirrored Rich’s thermal strategy by banking 69 thermals throughout his 5 hour and 33-minute flight. The Rx 3.5 Pro’s enhanced handling and glide efficiency helped Neale maintain smooth transitions between climbs. The neck-and-neck distances recorded by Neale and Rich highlight the competitive camaraderie fostering growth within the Volandoo community, pushing pilots to refine their craft together.

Victor Hare’s Sharp Soaring Skills Yield 258.65 km Free Distance Journey

Victor Hare showcased formidable piloting on his 258.65 km free distance around three turnpoints at Forbes Airfield, completing this feat in 5 hours and 14 minutes. His choice of the sleek Icaro Laminar glider—a top performer in thermal penetration and glide ratio—was instrumental as he counted 65 thermals to stay aloft and push the pace. Victor’s ability to maintain consistency in variable lift conditions highlights the synergy between advanced equipment and pilot expertise, contributing strong momentum to the Forbes flying scene this week.

Rich Reinauer’s Endurance Triumph: 209 km Out and Back Battle

In a longer 6 hour and 46 minute out-and-back flight from Forbes Airfield, Rich Reinauer again displayed remarkable aerial endurance, closing 209.03 km with consistent lift management. Amassing a total of 75 thermals, Rich stretched the capabilities of the Moyes Rx 3.5 in longer duration competition with strategic route planning and efficient climbs. This flight reflects both pilot persistence and intelligent flying tactics, reinforcing Rich’s dominance and inspiring peers aiming for sustained XC flights.

Victor Hare’s Tactical Mastery on a 202.7 km Out and Back Course

Matching one of the longest out-and-back flights this week, Victor Hare sailed 202.7 km in a 6 hour and 35 minute journey, using 84 thermals to keep his flight steady and controlled. His Icaro Laminar glider again proved its high-performance prowess, enabling fine-tuned manoeuvring for thermal centering and energy conservation. Victor’s repeated high-level outings at Forbes Airfield solidify his standing as a pilot adept at blending speed and safety while tackling demanding XC courses.

Enda Carrigan’s Tactical Brilliance Powers 197.52 km Out and Back Flight

Enda Carrigan rounded out this week’s impressive list with a solid 197.52 km out-and-back trek at Forbes Airfield. Flying the reliable Moyes Rx3, Enda accumulated 89 thermals over nearly seven hours of sustained effort. This flight underscores the critical role of thermal strategy in enduring XC tasks and highlights Enda’s steady hand in maintaining composure and climb efficiency amid the dynamic conditions. His achievement adds a vital layer of depth and diversity to the week’s competitive narratives within the Volandoo pilot network.