Matt Henzi and his dog Oso at home

My flying life: Matt Henzi

The sensei of American paragliding on what matters most

20 January, 2025, by Cross Country

How and when did you get into flying? 

I’ve been really into the idea of flying ever since I was a kid. I’d sit on my bed and imagine flying a plane all day long. But I first free-flew on13 March 2009. Before that I’d been into snowboarding and mountain guiding.

What’s your earliest flying memory?

My first plane flight to Disneyland when I was nine years old. My mom was scared to death. I was glued to the window the entire time, in awe.

What got you hooked on...

Join us and enjoy the full article

Now is the very best time to subscribe. Be in with a chance of winning your dream wing in the Subscribers’ Prize Draw. Closes 6 February 2026.

Subscribe Already a Subscriber? Sign in here.