Patriotic Flight Turns Heads Over Claremont Skies

Published Jul 27, 2026, 3:15 PM

By Hidden News Media

If you happened to look up over Claremont between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. last night, you may have noticed an unusual sight gliding quietly across the evening sky.

A powered paraglider, often called a paramotor, flew overhead beneath a striking red, white, and blue wing that resembled the American flag. Against the blue sky, it was hard to miss and certainly caught the attention of people across the area.

What Is a Paramotor?

A paramotor is one of the simplest forms of powered flight. It combines a paraglider wing with a lightweight engine and propeller mounted behind the pilot. Some pilots launch on foot, while others use a three wheeled frame called a powered paraglider trike, like the one seen over Claremont.

Unlike airplanes, paramotors can take off from relatively small open fields and fly at slower speeds, giving pilots incredible views of the landscape below.

How Fast Can They Fly?

Most recreational paramotors cruise between 20 and 40 mph, though some models can exceed 50 mph, depending on the equipment, weather conditions, and pilot experience.

They typically fly at altitudes ranging from a few hundred feet to several thousand feet, always following aviation regulations.

A Brief History

Powered paragliding became popular during the 1980s and early 1990s as pilots looked for a more affordable and accessible way to experience flight.

Today, the sport has grown worldwide, attracting outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the freedom of soaring through the air with minimal equipment compared to traditional aircraft.

A Different Perspective

Seeing a paramotor overhead is a reminder that aviation comes in many forms. While airplanes and helicopters are common sights, powered paragliders offer a slower, quieter way to experience the sky.

Their ability to cruise at lower speeds often gives both pilots and people on the ground a chance to appreciate the view a little longer.

Did You See It?

Were you in Claremont when this patriotic-powered paraglider flew overhead?

If you captured photos or videos or know more about the pilot or the aircraft, we'd love to hear from you. Community stories and local moments like these help showcase the unique sights happening right here in our region.

📸 Photos by Jacqualine Pruett | Hidden News Media

Sources & Notes

Resources & Notes Sources • U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – Recreational and Sport Aviation information. •United States Powered Paragliding Association (USPPA). •Manufacturer specifications for recreational paramotors (performance varies by aircraft model, engine, weather conditions Reader Notes •Paramotors are regulated aircraft, and pilots are responsible for following applicable FAA regulations and operating safely. •Typical cruising speeds and operating altitudes vary depending on the aircraft, weather, and pilot experience. •The aircraft seen over Claremont appeared to be a powered paraglider (paramotor trike) with a patriotic red, white, and blue wing. This article is based on observations made from the ground and publicly available information about the sport. Have More Information? Were you the pilot, or do you know who was flying over Claremont? Did you capture photos or video from another angle? Hidden News Media welcomes community submissions and additional information that helps tell the full story. If you'd like to contribute, we'd love to hear from you.