Colorado air traffic controller flies paramotor to work once a week

Jake Hutzler, an air traffic controller in Pueblo, Colorado, has begun flying a paramotor to work about once a week when weather permits. The 28-year-old lays out the wing outside his apartment, starts the motor and runs until the powered paraglider lifts him into the air. The flight to the airport takes about 20 minutes at roughly 35 mph, passing over fields, a highway and a water tower.

Before departing, Hutzler calls the tower where he works to say he is on his way. During the flight he provides updates on his location and altitude because the paramotor is small and does not appear on radar. He waits for permission to land on the airport ramp before beginning his shift.

Hutzler became interested in the activity, also known as powered paragliding, after seeing a video of someone flying a paramotor to McDonald’s. He trained in Florida in 2021 and later became an instructor. He said the aircraft gives pilots an unobstructed view and a sense of freedom.

Paramotors do not require a licence under the information supplied, but they are subject to federal rules for ultralight vehicles. They may be operated only during daylight, and pilots must avoid congested cities and towns. Hutzler and his manager reviewed the rules and ensured he would have two-way communication with the tower before his first work flight in June.

Weather limits the commute: wind of about 10 mph can keep him grounded, while heat-driven updrafts can make the journey turbulent. Setting up and packing the equipment means the trip takes slightly longer than driving, but Hutzler said the experience was more enjoyable.