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The United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association or USHPA (formerly known as the United States Hang Gliding Association or USHGA) is the non-profit organziation supporting foot-launched soaring flight in the United States. USHPA is also the official representative to the National Aeronautics Association (NAA), an associate member of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), and thus is considered the national governing body of the sports of hang gliding and paragliding.

History
USHPA began in 1971 as the Southern California Hang Gliding Association (SCHGA) and, as the sport of hang gliding became national in scope by the mid 1970's, the SCHGA changed its organizational name to the United States Hang Gliding Association.

Incorporation of Paragliding
When paragliding became popular in the U.S., the American Paragliding Association was formed. That eventually merged into the, then, USHGA.

USHPA is the FAI recognized body representing motorless hang gliding and paragliding competition and records in the [United States].

The organization provides a pilot proficiency program for foot-launched soaring pilots and instructors. It is available at their website.

Organizational Name Change
In March of 2006, during a special membership meeting, the name of the organization was changed to the United States Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association, to reflect the sport of paragliding as inclusive to the association.

Organization and Governance
USHPA, as a 501(c)(3) body, is governed by an elected Board of Directors. There are twenty elected directors, dispersed throughout the USHPA's 12 national regions, five directors-at-large, and one Ex Officio director from the NAA. The Board meets twice a year to conduct the business of the Association.

USHPA maintains a staff office in Colorado Springs, CO, which serves as the headquarters of the Association and handles the day-to-day operations of the USHPA.

Events and Activities
Category:Non-profit organizations