Some Powered Parachutes qualify as "Part 103 Ultralight Vehicles" and can be flown with no license.  It is widely accepted, however, that proper training is crucial to successfully and safely enjoy this sport. Along with learning the physical skills required to fly a powered parachute, your training course should set the foundation for understanding weather, regulations, airspace, gear knowledge, etc. Most powered parachutes require at least a Student Pilot Certificate to solo and at least a Sport Pilot certificate to carry a passenger.

You can expect to spend $6,000-30,000 for your powered parachute. Used gear can be found cheaper, but requires careful shopping to ensure it is reliable and safe. Training ranges from $1,500-3,500 depending on the quality of instruction and is a worthwhile investment. You may acquire your own aircraft at anytime during the certification process. Be sure your aircraft is registered with an “N-Number,” has an airworthiness certificate and has had a current inspection (within the previous 12 months).

Speeds are usually in the range of 30 to 40 miles per hour. Speed is entirely dependent on the chute, more power just allows you to climb faster.

In the US, with a sport pilot certificate, regulations limit our maximum altitude to below 10,000 ft or 2000 feet above an obstacle. Most of our flying is done below 1,000 ft above the ground, however. You still need to be aware of and obey all the local airspace laws.

Powered parachutes generally require pretty nice weather to have an enjoyable and safe flight. Most pilots stick to sunrise and sunset to avoid the mid-day bumpy air and in wind speeds less than 10 mph.

Nothing too exciting. Your chute is very efficient and will glide even better than a normal parachute. As long as you are flying with a potential landing site within reach (as you always should), you just glide safely down and land.