Andy Shaw is a proverbial high-flyer and UP dealer with his business based in Woldingham, south of London.
Fifty years of aviation experience and a great sense of humor win him a special place among our partners. Parallel to selling UP equipment, he offers a wide range of courses through his businesses, Green Dragon Airsports and Thermal Chasers. Whether it’s paragliding, hang gliding, powered flight, or parascending—at home or abroad, and for all ages—he’s got you covered. He could probably fill a whole book with his stories. Here’s a brief glimpse from an interview.
How did you get into flying, Andy?
I officially started 28th August 1977 – that’s 50 years next year.
What did your career path up to being UP dealer look like?
Served 6 years in the Parachute Regiment. Fully qualified Instructor since 1984. Teaching and competing world wide. Training the Army and Special forces. Running an Airsports shop and workshop.
Since when are you connected with UP?
1981, when I first flew the UP COMET hang glider.
What’s special and good to know about flying in UK?
UK weather has changed so much over the years, we basically fly all year around. The best XC season is from March to October.
What’s the best general advice regarding paragliding you’ve ever been given?
Be patient. Right time! Right place! Right People!
What flying site is your favorite and why?
Very difficult question. My Thermal Chasers business takes me to places across the World at the last minute, wherever it's perfect weather for flying. This could be a small hill in Wales, or it could be Mont Blanc in France. If I am in the air, or customers are in the air that’s my favorite site/place.
Got some general tips for pilots visiting your country?
Come flying in the UK with a light hearting approach, get ready for dynamic soaring, towing, and if God gives you an epic day, don’t land and know your airspace. 😉
What’s your plan for the next five years?
Keep teaching, coaching, and guiding people to achieve their dreams, which most think are so far away.
Which one is your all-time favorite UP wing?
MERU was a head on many gliders for a few months when it came out in 2018, it was hard to beat. Also the handling of this glider is superb and its performance gave me great results.
Have you tried the newest gliders, TORRE & K2 5, or are you still looking forward to it?
On order and super excited!