GRANDY AIR ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Mile High Tandem Lesson — Cotton Gin: The Outer Banks from 5,000 Feet
An instructional, beginner-friendly tandem hang-gliding flight out of Jarvisburg that climbs to roughly 5,000 feet and gives guests 10–15 minutes in the air.
Mile High Tandem Lesson — Cotton Gin: The Outer Banks from 5,000 Feet.
Launched from the Cotton Gin at the Currituck County Flight Park in Jarvisburg, the Mile High Tandem Lesson is an instructional tandem hang-gliding experience that lifts you to about 5,000 feet for a 10–15 minute flight. Guests ride with a certified instructor in a two-person glider, learn the basics during a discovery-style lesson, and—if they choose—take the controls for part of the ride.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Cotton Gin / Currituck Flight Park
This premium tandem option operates from the Cotton Gin in Jarvisburg, placing you at one of the Outer Banks’ established flight parks for a high-altitude hang-gliding experience.
Towed to Roughly 5,000 Feet
The two-person glider is towed aloft by an ultralight aircraft and rises to approximately 5,000 feet, giving a sustained vantage well above coastal terrain.
Instructional, Beginner-Friendly Tandem
A certified tandem instructor flies with you in a specially designed two-person glider; the discovery-style lesson lasts about 10–15 minutes in the air and includes the opportunity for guests to control the glider.
What the day feels like
What the Mile High Tandem Feels Like
The experience is compact and focused: a tow by ultralight, a steady climb toward a mile-high ceiling, and a short but memorable cruise lasting roughly 10–15 minutes. Designed as an introductory lesson, the tandem format pairs each guest with a certified instructor who leads the launch and landing while allowing the rider a hands-on chance to fly during the discovery portion.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this flight suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The in‑air portion of the Mile High Tandem Lesson typically lasts about 10–15 minutes.
This is an instructional tandem flight intended for beginners; any specific equipment or clothing recommendations are provided by the operator.
The flight operates out of the Cotton Gin / Currituck Flight Park in Jarvisburg, NC.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the flight?
The flight time in the air is typically about 10–15 minutes.
How high does the tandem flight go?
The Mile High Tandem Lesson flies to approximately 5,000 feet.
Do I need prior hang-gliding experience?
No prior experience is required; the flight is an instructional, discovery-style tandem lesson with a certified instructor.
Are there age or weight restrictions?
Yes. The minimum age to fly is 14 years old and the maximum flight weight is 225 lbs.
Who operates the Mile High Tandem Lesson?
The Mile High Tandem Lesson at Cotton Gin is operated by Kitty Hawk Kites.
How is the glider taken to altitude?
The two-person glider is towed to altitude by an ultralight aircraft.
Are discounts available?
Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday discounts may be available.