The ADVANCE PI BI is an ultra-light modular tandem paraglider created for pilots who want to share hike-and-fly adventures without sacrificing performance or safety. Designed as the tandem member of the renowned PI family, it brings together minimal weight, compact pack volume and surprisingly versatile handling for both professional guides and experienced leisure pilots.
Hike-and-fly tandem specialist
The PI BI is tailored for demanding mountain environments where every gram counts. Its light cloth, optimised internal structure and smart riser configuration drastically reduce weight compared with classic tandems, making long ascents easier and launches at altitude more relaxed. Despite its minimalism, the wing retains the robustness and durability needed for frequent use.
Balanced performance and safety
In flight, the PI BI aims to combine the reassuring stability of a traditional tandem with the playful handling of a lightweight hike-and-fly wing. The brake travel and pressure are tuned to give the pilot precise control with clear feedback, supporting clean thermalling and efficient glides on transition. Passive safety and forgiving reactions help keep pilot and passenger comfortable, even when conditions become more dynamic.
Design philosophy and construction
Lightweight structure, full-size experience
ADVANCE uses a mix of light fabrics, carefully positioned reinforcements and a simplified line layout to achieve the PI BI’s low overall mass. The canopy profile and internal bracing are based on the solo PI series, adapted to tandem loads to preserve their direct, sporty feel. This leads to easy inflation, compact turning behaviour and reduced tendency to shoot or overshoot on take-off and in turbulence.
Take-off, landing and handling
On take-off, the wing rises progressively with little overshoot, which is especially valuable on steep or irregular mountain launches. Shorter take-off distances open up more sites and expand the possibilities for exploration. Landings benefit from the wing’s efficient flare and good energy retention, allowing precise touchdown even in tight or sloping terrain when flown by an appropriately skilled pilot.
Who the PI BI is for
Adventure tandems and professional use
The PI BI is aimed at pilots with solid tandem experience who want to operate in alpine terrain, travel light, or offer innovative hike-and-fly style tandems. Mountain guides, tandem instructors with a passion for exploration, and expert recreational pilots will appreciate its mix of low weight, reliable launch behaviour and engaging handling characteristics.
Versatility in everyday flying
Although optimised for mountain adventures, the PI BI can also be used on classic sites. Its compact packing and easy inflation make it a practical choice for pilots who regularly commute to the hill or travel with limited luggage. As always with lightweight wings, proper care, storage and handling are important to preserve fabric longevity.
Find out more and order
For full technical data, certification details, size range and current colour options, visit the manufacturer's website. To receive personalised advice, check availability, and order your complete tandem hike-and-fly setup with wing, harnesses and accessories, contact Paragliding4.me – your specialist partner for modern ADVANCE equipment.