Antoine Girard flies 400km FAI Triangle in Pakistan 2026
Adventure and inspiration,  Flying Culture

400km FAI: Inside Antoine Girard’s World Record Flight

Months of preparation, 5,000m passes, 6,800m base, off-the-clock thermals and stormy skies. In June Antoine flew the world’s first 400km FAI triangle, launching from Hunza, Pakistan. He tells us how he prepared, how he flew the line and what happened when his brake line snapped...

19 October, 2026, by Antoine Girard

The last rays of the sun disappear behind the mountain. Due west, I catch sight of this morning’s start point. I have to reach it. If I do, I will complete the first 400km FAI triangle in the history of paragliding. But I am not feeling calm.

All day long hypoxia has robbed me of my abilities. I’m exhausted and I know my judgement is impaired. I have to finish this flight, but above all, I must do it without getting hurt.

In this state it’s easy to push just a little further to reach your goal and take too great a risk. Landings are rare in this valley, and the altitude sometimes gives you a sense of omnipotence that encourages you to take even greater risks. I’m familiar...

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