Or: Your Next Big Jump in Performance (and it costs a LOT less than a new wing)!

Note: I am a paraglider pilot and have only done two tandem hang gliding flights. It is possible that some different options might be feasible for hang glider pilots – feel free to share your insight or write a follow-up article!

First, what is micturition? It’s just the medical term for peeing. But it sounds so much fancier!

Second, why is hydration part of this article? Because peeing and hydration are closely intertwined, and for many pilots their “solution” to inflight micturition is to simply avoid it by drinking less. Which almost always means they are flying dehydrated – which is Not Good.

New pilots often ask about options for peeing while flying. I’ll explore various options that work for women, men (as far as I understand), and both. But first I want you to understand just how important this topic is: if you are not flying with some sort of in-flight pee system you are likely putting yourself at risk even without realizing it! We manage enough risk in free flight without adding to it unnecessarily.

How often have you heard another pilot say: 

• What’s the big deal about getting a little dehydrated? I’ll just drink some water after I land. [You’re still flying dehydrated!]
• My flight isn’t going to be that long (how long is too long? how hot is it? how hydrated did you get yesterday? last night? this morning? before launching?) [You’re still flying dehydrated!]

The bottom line: to fly well (and safely!) you have to stay hydrated. And if you are well-hydrated throughout your flight you will almost certainly have to pee up there.