Paddy T. - August, 2024
Had a fantastic experience learning to fly (P1 and P2) with Dave and his instructors this summer. The teaching is very high quality and tailored to each student, with instructors taking as much time as is needed to teach skills. This style of teaching is enabled by the flight school not having fixed intakes (and hence not having fixed timeframes for teaching). The equipment is also very good quality/condition, and Lumby is an excellent beginner flying site with opportunities to mountain launch and thermal as a student. Great atmosphere camping at the flight park with other pilots too! Can't imagine how learning P1 and P2 could be any better. Looking forward to coming back!
Emily R. - July, 2024
I cannot express how impressed I was with my experience at Freedom Flight Park. They tailored to my hectic schedule without hesitation. I had so much fun learning I forgot I was at a course. The instructors are highly knowledgeable and make themselves available to answer any questions. Definitely will go back to fly the site and be around the amazing pilots this gorgeous location attracts
Peter S. - May, 2022
I did my P1 course in October 2021 and did my P2 course in May 2022, both at Freedom Flight School. In total I spent about 4 weeks at the flight park and it was an amazing experience.
Instruction: During my P1 and P2 courses, I had the pleasure of learning from both Terry and Dave and can say that the instruction I received from them is second to none. They took the time to make sure I understood the classroom material and were very patient during the practical training. Safety was always their number one priority and throughout my training I always felt safe and they made sure that I felt comfortable and confident with the skills.
Scheduling: Dave does not wait for classes to book up before running the course and works around your schedule to get it done. Whether it is just you or a group, you get to do the training on your schedule. As someone who was coming from out of province, this was a very important aspect to me.
Price: The prices at Freedom Flight School were very good. They were up front about the cost and there were no hidden or additional fees. The price they quoted me was the price I paid. I was not required to purchase any gear at any part of the course and rental gear was included in the course cost. I was even allowed to use the rental gear after completion of course at no additional cost. This was a big point for me because as a student, I shouldn't be forced to purchase gear while I'm still learning what gear I need or like. Having access to their rental gear allowed me to try a variety of wings and harnesses to figure out what gear I like.
Atmosphere: Dave and Terry work hard to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Everyone I met (instructors, students, and other pilots) were very friendly and easy to talk to and they foster an environment where everyone looks out for each other.
Overall I can't thank Dave and Terry enough for making my dreams of being able to fly come true. From having fantastic instructors, making new friends, and being able to soar with the eagles (literally, there was one that lived near the flight park), my experience at Freedom Flight School is one I will never forget and I can't wait to be back.
Had a fantastic experience learning to fly (P1 and P2) with Dave and his instructors this summer. The teaching is very high quality and tailored to each student, with instructors taking as much time as is needed to teach skills. This style of teaching is enabled by the flight school not having fixed intakes (and hence not having fixed timeframes for teaching). The equipment is also very good quality/condition, and Lumby is an excellent beginner flying site with opportunities to mountain launch and thermal as a student. Great atmosphere camping at the flight park with other pilots too! Can't imagine how learning P1 and P2 could be any better. Looking forward to coming back!
Emily R. - July, 2024
I cannot express how impressed I was with my experience at Freedom Flight Park. They tailored to my hectic schedule without hesitation. I had so much fun learning I forgot I was at a course. The instructors are highly knowledgeable and make themselves available to answer any questions. Definitely will go back to fly the site and be around the amazing pilots this gorgeous location attracts
Peter S. - May, 2022
I did my P1 course in October 2021 and did my P2 course in May 2022, both at Freedom Flight School. In total I spent about 4 weeks at the flight park and it was an amazing experience.
Instruction: During my P1 and P2 courses, I had the pleasure of learning from both Terry and Dave and can say that the instruction I received from them is second to none. They took the time to make sure I understood the classroom material and were very patient during the practical training. Safety was always their number one priority and throughout my training I always felt safe and they made sure that I felt comfortable and confident with the skills.
Scheduling: Dave does not wait for classes to book up before running the course and works around your schedule to get it done. Whether it is just you or a group, you get to do the training on your schedule. As someone who was coming from out of province, this was a very important aspect to me.
Price: The prices at Freedom Flight School were very good. They were up front about the cost and there were no hidden or additional fees. The price they quoted me was the price I paid. I was not required to purchase any gear at any part of the course and rental gear was included in the course cost. I was even allowed to use the rental gear after completion of course at no additional cost. This was a big point for me because as a student, I shouldn't be forced to purchase gear while I'm still learning what gear I need or like. Having access to their rental gear allowed me to try a variety of wings and harnesses to figure out what gear I like.
Atmosphere: Dave and Terry work hard to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Everyone I met (instructors, students, and other pilots) were very friendly and easy to talk to and they foster an environment where everyone looks out for each other.
Overall I can't thank Dave and Terry enough for making my dreams of being able to fly come true. From having fantastic instructors, making new friends, and being able to soar with the eagles (literally, there was one that lived near the flight park), my experience at Freedom Flight School is one I will never forget and I can't wait to be back.
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Ian S. - August, 2021
I had a fantastic experience training with Freedom Flight Park in Lumby, BC last summer. The owner, Dave, along with Terry and Jay, were all incredible instructors who made the learning process both enjoyable and safe. Not only were they patient with me as a student, but they were also welcoming to my family. My wife and my son were able to watch and hang out while I was training, which made the whole experience that much more special for all of us. I was able to successfully earn my P2 paragliding certification thanks to the expert guidance of Dave, Terry, and Jay. The training facilities at Freedom Flight Park are top-notch and the scenery in Lumby is breathtaking, making it the perfect location for this type of activity. I highly recommend Freedom Flight Park to anyone interested in learning how to paraglide. The team at Freedom Flight Park is professional, knowledgeable, and committed to ensuring that their students have a safe and memorable experience. Thank you, Dave, Terry, and Jay for an unforgettable summer! |
Dillon N. - July, 2022
I had a blast at Freedom Flight Park in the summer of 2022. The town of Lumby is also a nice little town to spend some time in. I did both P1 and P2 paragliding programs and really enjoyed my stay. The instructors are great with students learning to fly and also great for tandem rides. Highly recommended if you want to learn to paraglide or also just want to experince some thermals on a tandem flight. I'll be back in the Spring and Summer of 2023!!! |
Calvin D. - Sept. 2022
11/10! I did my P1/P2 training here last spring and couldn’t recommended them more. Dave is very accommodating and was able to get me flying on short notice. He and Terry’s passion for the sport is reflected in their instruction and they made the process a breeze. Their program is relaxing and efficient, with an obvious focus on safety. What’s best is that the support doesn’t end with the completion of the course. They obviously care about their people!
Beyond the school, the flight park offers an ultra welcoming environment and is a great spot to spend some time. If you are looking for a place to go for a tandem flight, try the sport or get licensed, I’d highly suggest that you “call Dave from Lumby”!
11/10! I did my P1/P2 training here last spring and couldn’t recommended them more. Dave is very accommodating and was able to get me flying on short notice. He and Terry’s passion for the sport is reflected in their instruction and they made the process a breeze. Their program is relaxing and efficient, with an obvious focus on safety. What’s best is that the support doesn’t end with the completion of the course. They obviously care about their people!
Beyond the school, the flight park offers an ultra welcoming environment and is a great spot to spend some time. If you are looking for a place to go for a tandem flight, try the sport or get licensed, I’d highly suggest that you “call Dave from Lumby”!
Ryan K. - June, 2021
I spent a week in May and another in June getting my P2 and really enjoyed the experience out at Freedom Flight Park. Dave, Terry, Brad and Jason bring a wide variety of teaching styles and experience to the course, and are able to provide varied teaching styles to work with different people. The course progression from the bunny hill, to towing system and finally up to Coopers, seems to work well, and keep things entertaining without being overwhelming. There is a variety of different gear to train on and learn what works well for your style and abilities. If you decide to get your own gear, Dave is super helpful letting you know what is available, what will work well for you, and can then get it in quickly. I think he genuinely cares that you end up with gear that will work for you and would rather see you buy from a competitor than sell you something that isn’t ideal.
I would recommend camping out at the flight park during training if possible. The Pilot's Lounge has everything you need for cooking and relaxing. Spending the off time at the park allows a much more immersive experience, providing you the opportunity to get to know some of the local and visiting pilots.
All in all, this was a great experience, akin to a summer camp for adults, and I look forward to getting back and flying with them again!
I spent a week in May and another in June getting my P2 and really enjoyed the experience out at Freedom Flight Park. Dave, Terry, Brad and Jason bring a wide variety of teaching styles and experience to the course, and are able to provide varied teaching styles to work with different people. The course progression from the bunny hill, to towing system and finally up to Coopers, seems to work well, and keep things entertaining without being overwhelming. There is a variety of different gear to train on and learn what works well for your style and abilities. If you decide to get your own gear, Dave is super helpful letting you know what is available, what will work well for you, and can then get it in quickly. I think he genuinely cares that you end up with gear that will work for you and would rather see you buy from a competitor than sell you something that isn’t ideal.
I would recommend camping out at the flight park during training if possible. The Pilot's Lounge has everything you need for cooking and relaxing. Spending the off time at the park allows a much more immersive experience, providing you the opportunity to get to know some of the local and visiting pilots.
All in all, this was a great experience, akin to a summer camp for adults, and I look forward to getting back and flying with them again!
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Mike M. - June, 2020
I can't say enough good things about Freedom Flight School! Dave and Don run a very calm, relaxed but highly professional school within a community of really encouraging, enthusiastic and friendly people. I started learning and then had to take a break for a few years due to work. When I came back the return was seamless and in no time they had helped and guided me to getting my P2. I never felt pressured, financially or for time and always supported and safe. I have worked in aviation and as an instructor for most of my adult life, including as a fixed-wing flying instructor, and the set-up, culture and professionalism at the school are as good as I've ever seen. Overall, simply a fun, friendly fantastic place. If you are thinking about paragliding whether for a tandem experience or to learn then don't hesitate and this is the place to come. |
Robin T. - September, 2021
Thank you Dave, Terry and Jason for teaching me to fly this summer! Calm, patient and professional instruction from start to finish, and the support and mentoring doesn't end when the course is over. Flying a paraglider is an experience like no other, and this was a safe, approachable way to learn how. The flight park is a friendly place with plenty of pilots happy to share years of experience with you during and after the course. See you out there!
Thank you Dave, Terry and Jason for teaching me to fly this summer! Calm, patient and professional instruction from start to finish, and the support and mentoring doesn't end when the course is over. Flying a paraglider is an experience like no other, and this was a safe, approachable way to learn how. The flight park is a friendly place with plenty of pilots happy to share years of experience with you during and after the course. See you out there!
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Ryan D. - May, 2019
Absolutely incredible school and flying community! I've been wanting to learn to fly for awhile and I'm so glad I took my P1 & P2 with Dave and Don from Freedom Flight School. They are very safety conscious, but also fun guys to hang around with. The instruction was excellent and takes beginner pilots through progressive steps before getting newbies flying on their own. Through a mix on the ground practice and in class tutorials I felt confident when I took my first flight. I decided to immerse myself in the sport and spent 10 days at the flight school to live and breathe the sport. I drove the 9 hours from Edmonton to do so and I am so happy I came to Freedom Flight School. Don and Dave are really great people and I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time with them around the camp fire after training. I honestly feel like I have new friends as a result. Dave even lent me his truck to go get groceries. I seriously can't say enough great things about this school and the flying community in Lumby. So many friendly and interesting people they are all addicted and passionate about paragliding and hang gliding. They all supported the learning process and consideration for safety. You can stay and camp at the school or you can come and go and train when you want. The instructors are flexible. If you're looking for a bit of a vacation while you learn, I'd recommend camping and immersing yourself. The community is good for the soul. The people, the pilots lounge, the open air shower, the night time hangouts around the campfire, and the beautiful valley are all a great part of the experience. Randy, the owner of the flight park where the school is located, is a great person as well. He led some great guitar and singing sessions around the campfire at night and really made me feel like I was welcome there. He's really fostered the sport in the area since the 1970s and I highly respect what he's done. I was genuinely sad to leave this place and these people, but I am so excited to be a paraglider and to have learned from such a great school. I'll be back soon for more training and to get Dave or Don to take my girlfriend for a tandem ride. Thank you so much for everything Freedom Flight School and Lumby Air Force! I feel fortunate and grateful to have chose this community to learn from. 
Free as a bird.
Amy E. - Sept. 26, 2018
I could not have had a better experience learning how to paraglide than I did at the Freedom Flight School... Instructors Dave and Don provide exceptional instruction with a focus on safety while keeping the atmosphere fun and playful. They are approachable and cool, quick to offer encouragement. I was challenged to continually assess the conditions, equipment, identify risks and examine my knowledge and judgement. The park is a welcoming and amazing place to hang out even when you're not flying. And the flying is absolutely unbelievable! Whether you're keen to learn to fly solo, or up for a comfortable, beautiful tandem flight with a trustworthy pilot at the helm, this is undoubtedly an experience that will not be forgotten...! If one is interested in becoming a certified P2 pilot, the course is conveniently offered at each student’s pace and convenience. They offer sincerity and a determination to turn out smart, safe, and comfortable pilots. I couldn’t be happier to have found Freedom Flight Park and am deeply grateful for the friends I’ve made already at this inclusive and utterly amazing community. I cannot express my thankfulness to Don and Dave, my mentors and friends; this has been a true game changer for this girl!! |
Taking of from Coopers Launch.
Tyler E. - Oct. 24, 2018
This Summer I spent learning how to paraglide at Freedom Flight Park after a few years of hesitating to make the decision. My initial interest was sparked by general enthusiasm for being outside and adventure. But learning to be a pilot offers a wealth of knowledge and experience to be had that it’s easy to become enthralled with the world of free flight. There was no better place to be influenced by a group of incredibly passionate pilots from all over the country. Most importantly, the dedicated instructors Dave and Don who put your education, safety and comfort above all else. Paragliding requires full awareness of the external and internal environment. Both Dave and Don honor that practice. Your progression is based on their assessment, but more importantly your own judgement on whether you are ready to fly. With the combination of amazing facilities, loving community and flexible instruction you’ve got a recipe for life changing experiences! Anyone who has considered free flight of any kind should consider training at the park. Now that I have the P2 license the team is helping me get gear for the next season a reasonable cost. With these guys, freedom is an understatement! 
Our scooter tow system for students to fly higher and higher.
Rebecca W. - Nov. 6, 2018
I completed my P1/P2 with Don and Dave this fall and can't say enough positive things about their instruction and my experience in general. Their passion for paragliding is infectious and they really went the extra mile to help me get through all of the material and flights for P2 late in the year. I started out having no experience whatsoever and their approach to training seemed to be a perfect and safe balance of learning skills on the ground then building excitement and confidence through progressively higher flights from a training hill, to towing, then flights off Coopers. Their guidance through all stages was encouraging and positive. All equipment was provided during training, which was a good opportunity to try out a variety of gear prior to purchasing. Freedom Flight Park also provided a welcoming and friendly atmosphere and a great sense of community. I'd recommend training here to anyone, even if it meant travelling to do so! Kareem D. - Sept. 10, 2018
Great instructors with a lot of personal attention, highly recommend Dave and Don! Really great learning experience and a great place to take up flying! Scotty M. - November, 2019
Back in august I decided to see the world from a different angle. I signed up for a tandem flight. After meeting the very helpful and courteous staff I felt comfortable and decided to proceed right off the side of a 3450' tall mountain fastened to a pilot i just met minutes before. What an experience. I highly recommend it. In fact a day or so later I signed up for flight school. And now I am one of those people enjoying life up there. |
Getting some serious air time right off of launch.
Henry K. - November 8, 2019
I traveled from Edmonton to Lumby to learn to paraglide. After a number of inquiries to different locations I was satisfied that Freedom Flight School was the right choice for me. I came from a competitive skydiving background and believed the transformation would be easy having flown many different parachutes. To my surprise the difference is large and I had to learn a very different environment of flying. Much of the information and criteria in understanding concept of flight and canopy control are the same which made it much easier for me. The subtle differences are big and learning to slow down from a high performance canopy to a slower soaring canopy is a big change. Much more relaxed and subtle movements in flight. Coming from sport skydiving where I instructed and competed world wide for many decades and a instructor of martial arts for decades I knew what I was looking for in an instructor. Don and Dave stepped up to the plate and met all the criteria I wanted and expected. They both pay attention to the small detail that will really make a difference when you apply it as you progress in your flying abilities. It is a pleasure to fly with this school, and learn how to progress with safety first and a solid foundation of basics that will allow you to fall back on in future flights. Step by step progression that assures you the stability in confidence and safety of flight with the knowledge passed from instructor to student was paramount which helped me through the course P1 to P2 at a very comfortable pace. I would recommend Freedom Flight School for all your paragliding needs and support. Don and Dave are there for you, and bring the best out of you. A big thank you to all and we will be back to share the skies with you. I am hooked!!!
I traveled from Edmonton to Lumby to learn to paraglide. After a number of inquiries to different locations I was satisfied that Freedom Flight School was the right choice for me. I came from a competitive skydiving background and believed the transformation would be easy having flown many different parachutes. To my surprise the difference is large and I had to learn a very different environment of flying. Much of the information and criteria in understanding concept of flight and canopy control are the same which made it much easier for me. The subtle differences are big and learning to slow down from a high performance canopy to a slower soaring canopy is a big change. Much more relaxed and subtle movements in flight. Coming from sport skydiving where I instructed and competed world wide for many decades and a instructor of martial arts for decades I knew what I was looking for in an instructor. Don and Dave stepped up to the plate and met all the criteria I wanted and expected. They both pay attention to the small detail that will really make a difference when you apply it as you progress in your flying abilities. It is a pleasure to fly with this school, and learn how to progress with safety first and a solid foundation of basics that will allow you to fall back on in future flights. Step by step progression that assures you the stability in confidence and safety of flight with the knowledge passed from instructor to student was paramount which helped me through the course P1 to P2 at a very comfortable pace. I would recommend Freedom Flight School for all your paragliding needs and support. Don and Dave are there for you, and bring the best out of you. A big thank you to all and we will be back to share the skies with you. I am hooked!!!
Yes, we work our students hard!
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Terry Z. - Sept. 9, 2018
Hands down one of the best adventures I've had in the Okanagan to-date. My friend and I did an hang gliding introductory course with Randy, who was very accommodating and patient with us during the whole course. He taught us the basic and fundamentals, and just after 1 hour, we were getting solid air-times off a small hill. I'm definitely coming back for the full course. Would highly recommend to someone who's looking for a thrilling experience. Ron S. - June 4, 2018
They are way more than just Paragliding I guess that is why they called it a Flight Park. What a Treat! Such a great way to experience flight not only if you just want to explore your curiosity to decide if it is for you, you want to continue to learn to fly, or even just review or improve your skills this place showed me that I came to the right place. They have a true desire to teach you to fly safely without pressure in a very progressive logical way. Thanks Dave, Don, Randy and all the other pilots who offered up the support and encouragement. I salute you all! |
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Julianna O. - Aug. 21, 2018
We chose Freedom Flight Park because of their flexible schedule that catered to our busy lives and I am so glad we did! Dave and Don are incredible! They are patient, knowledgable and fun to learn from. The structure of their teaching focuses on an individual, helping them progress at their own pace and comfort level. I never felt pressured I was always encouraged and entertained. My trust in their teaching grew instantly and I was able to focus my mind on developing skills. We started with kiting on a flat field, progressed our launches on a small hill then move to short towing, towing releases and finally a launch from Mt. Cooper. It was an amazing journey and we were able to have our high flights on the 4th day of training. Highly recommend Freedom Flight Park to anybody who is looking for a fun and safe place to learn paragliding. |
Some determined running.
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Practice, practice, practice.
Kyle L. - June 15, 2018
Went as a beginner paraglider. It was a great place to learn to fly as well as a cool environment to hang out and meet other pilots. Dave and Don were very knowledgeable, and I felt like I was able to progress quickly while still being quite comfortable at each step. Can’t wait to go back for my next level.
Gleb K. - August 2020
My experience at Freedom Flight Park was amazing. If you're looking to get your P1/P2 license or just go on a tandem flight, look no further. This is the place to do so. My instructors, Dave & Don, are very knowledgeable, friendly, and will go the extra mile for their customers/students. Everyone in the flight park made me feel as part of the community right away. The flight park itself is located in a beautiful area with amazing views. A fair warning, if you go there you might not want to leave.
Went as a beginner paraglider. It was a great place to learn to fly as well as a cool environment to hang out and meet other pilots. Dave and Don were very knowledgeable, and I felt like I was able to progress quickly while still being quite comfortable at each step. Can’t wait to go back for my next level.
Gleb K. - August 2020
My experience at Freedom Flight Park was amazing. If you're looking to get your P1/P2 license or just go on a tandem flight, look no further. This is the place to do so. My instructors, Dave & Don, are very knowledgeable, friendly, and will go the extra mile for their customers/students. Everyone in the flight park made me feel as part of the community right away. The flight park itself is located in a beautiful area with amazing views. A fair warning, if you go there you might not want to leave.
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Margaret D. - Oct. 15, 2016
What started as a trip to try out hang gliding turned into a life-changing adventure. My husband and I came back to the Freedom Flight School 5 times now, between July and October to complete our novice training and to spend as much time as vacation schedules would allow to fly with the birds! We have discovered our new passion in life, and my husband actually lost 40 pounds during this adventure - no time to watch TV and snack when there's flying to do! I am so grateful to instructors Randy, Terri, Dave and Don, who have created the most encouraging, inviting, friendly and safe atmosphere, not to mention excellent and thorough instruction. They are very perceptive, able to see exactly what the student is doing, and provide appropriate advice accordingly. They help you to progress at the right pace for you, as everyone learns differently. If there was a hang gliding school closer to Vancouver I might not have chosen to go so far as Lumby, but I am really glad this was the only school in B.C. because it allowed me to discover this magical place. As it turns out, Lumby also has the perfect geography and climatic conditions for flying, and the school has a wonderfully BIG landing zone. If I decide to try paragliding as well in the future, I will definitely do my training at the Freedom Flight School, as I trust the community there and I know I will get the best instruction possible. |
Rocking the training hill.
Ben M. - Oct. 19, 2016
I did a 1-week hang gliding beginner's course this past summer and couldn't have been happier with the experience. Great instruction; great, supportive people at the flight park; and nothing will beat the feeling of launching solo for the first time from Cooper's launch. Highly recommended! |
Marius P. - Dec. 3, 2015
The spirit of the Freedom Flight Park is simply awesome! If you are into just into trying out flying, the professional instructors there will take you up for a tandem on either paraglider or hanglider for a breathtaking experience. And if you're a pilot already, this area is one of the friendliest in Canada and also the safest (in my opinion) thanks to all the farmer's fields around in case you need an emergency landing zone! :-P I thank everyone there for the opportunity to fly and share this wonderful time this summer... Randy Rauck, Terri Dyke and Dave Underwood! See you next year!
The spirit of the Freedom Flight Park is simply awesome! If you are into just into trying out flying, the professional instructors there will take you up for a tandem on either paraglider or hanglider for a breathtaking experience. And if you're a pilot already, this area is one of the friendliest in Canada and also the safest (in my opinion) thanks to all the farmer's fields around in case you need an emergency landing zone! :-P I thank everyone there for the opportunity to fly and share this wonderful time this summer... Randy Rauck, Terri Dyke and Dave Underwood! See you next year!