Meet the Team Behind the Flight
The Team
Welcome to Tandem Paragliding!
Our team of experienced pilots and dedicated staff shares a common passion: experiencing the magic of flying with you. Fly with test pilots, flight instructors, and instructor trainers who are active in various countries. Safety, professionalism, and enthusiasm are our top priorities. Meet the people who will make your tandem flight an unforgettable experience!
Our Pilots
Ruben Mahlknecht
- Head Instructor and Performance Expert
Experience and Expertise
Ruben Mahlknecht has been a passionate paraglider pilot since 1996, bringing over two decades of experience to the skies. As an official flight instructor for DHV and ÖAEC, he possesses extensive knowledge and top qualifications. Additionally, he is a performance trainer and a member of the flight instructor examination committee.
Qualifications
- State-certified tandem pilot (Germany, Austria, Italy)
- Years of experience as a test pilot in paraglider development
Instructors and Trainers
- Flight training for beginners and advanced pilots
- Cross-country flight courses
- Performance maneuver training
What Makes Ruben Special
Ruben combines experience, expertise, and enthusiasm. His ability to explain complex concepts clearly builds trust – both on the ground and in the air.
"Flying is more than a hobby – it is freedom, precision, and passion that I strive to share with every flight."
Heidi Insam
- Passionate Tandem Pilot and Cross-Country Expert
Experience and Expertise
Since her first paraglider flight at 19, Heidi has made flying her greatest passion. As a state-certified tandem pilot, she delights her passengers with professionalism and joy.
Competition Highlights
- Bronze Medal at the Italian Championships 2012
- Podium at Women's Paragliding Open 2010
- X-Contest placement 2011
- Personal best: 136 km cross-country flight
What Makes Heidi Special
Heidi creates a comfortable atmosphere and eases any last doubts her guests may have before the start. Her experience and friendly character make her an exceptional pilot.
"For me, flying means feeling the freedom of the skies and sharing it with my passengers."
Peter Gebhard
- Exceptional Athlete and Paragliding Expert
Experience and Expertise
Peter began his paragliding career at the age of 16 and quickly became one of Italy's most successful competition pilots.
Competition Highlights
- Finisher at Red Bull X-Alps 2013
- World Record in Cross-Country Flying (FAI Triangle) 2012–2014
- Multiple South Tyrolean Champion
What Makes Peter Special
With expertise and tireless passion, Peter offers a unique experience. His impressive career inspires and builds trust.
"Flying is not just a sport – it is a passion I want to share with every flight."
Kilian Insam
- Pioneer and World Record Holder
Experience and Expertise
Kilian is a pioneer of paragliding in Italy. Since 1986, he has been breaking records and shaping the paragliding world with passion.
Competition Highlights
- World Champion in Cross-Country Flying
- 2x World Record in Tandem Flying (FAI Triangle: 210.29 km and 219.65 km)
- 5x Italian Champion in Cross-Country Flying
What Makes Kilian Special
Kilian combines professionalism and passion. His approachable nature and extensive experience make every flight a special experience.
"For me, flying is boundless freedom – and I share it with everyone who takes to the skies."
Lukas Wörndle
- Hike & Fly Specialist
Experience and Expertise
Lukas – a rising talent.
Competition Highlights
- Cross-Country Flights
- Hike & Fly
What Makes Lukas Special
Lukas started paragliding in 2018 and quickly developed into a talented tandem pilot.
"Precision for adventure, efficiency for altitude."
Our Ground Team
Elke Werner
- Communications and Planning Coordinator as well as Shuttle Driver
Role & Responsibilities
Elke ensures everything around your flight runs smoothly. She is your point of contact for communication, scheduling, and logistics – and makes sure you get to the launch site safely. Thanks to her language skills (German, English, French, some Italian), she assists guests from around the world.
What Makes Elke Special
Elke combines organizational talent, friendliness, and precision. She creates a stress-free and pleasant atmosphere – from the first contact to a safe return.
"I make sure you arrive safely at the launch site and return with a smile."
Why Choose Us
Experience
Certified pilots with years of flight experience
Safety
State-of-the-art equipment and regular checks
Passion
Flights tailored to individual preferences
Personal Care
Certified pilots with years of flight experience