The 5th Asian Paragliding Accuracy Championships have officially begun in Thailand’s northeastern province of Nongkhai, drawing a large international field and underscoring the country’s growing role as a host for major aeronautic sporting events.

The competition, staged at Pha Tak Suea, opened on February seventh and is scheduled to run through February fifteenth, featuring elite precision flying athletes from across the region and beyond.

Organisers reported that ninety-seven pilots from twelve countries have registered to participate, with ninety-two competitors representing eleven nations vying for continental champion titles.

The event is overseen by the Royal Aeronautic Sports Association of Thailand in partnership with the Nongkhai Flying Club and local authorities, with support from the Thai government and the Sports Authority of Thailand.

Officials from the World Air Sports Federation’s Commission Internationale de Vol Libre (CIVL) are on site to ensure fair adjudication, including FAI Steward Andrew Cowley and Jury President Zeljko Ovuka, along with an international panel of judges and directors responsible for flight safety, scoring and event coordination.

The Championships combine elements of skill, precision and strategy as pilots seek to land as close as possible to designated targets on terrain that challenges both wind management and flight control.

Thailand’s successful hosting builds on recent test events in the same venue and reflects increasing investment in air sports infrastructure and international competition readiness.

Athletes, officials and spectators have praised Thailand’s hospitality and logistical arrangements, noting that the competition not only highlights the technical prowess of the pilots but also fosters greater engagement among Asian air sports communities.

The event continues through the middle of the month, with medals and continental titles to be awarded in multiple categories by competition’s end.