Introduction to the Icaro Loxia² Tandem Pilot Harness
The Icaro Loxia² is a purpose-built tandem pilot harness primarily aimed at professional and frequent commercial tandem use. As an evolution of the original Loxia, it integrates seamlessly with Icaro’s Batis² passenger harness and Parus² tandem wing, highlighting its design focus on tandem operators who prioritize practicality, durability, and safety. This specialized harness balances pilot comfort with essential operational features, making it suitable for demanding tandem flying environments.
Design Features and Comfort
Hybrid Support Concept
A key innovation in the Loxia² is its hybrid support system, combining leg loops with a seat board. This approach offers pilots a more open and mobile feel when on the ground and during takeoff or landing compared to traditional seat-board-only harnesses. Despite the mobility on the ground, in flight it provides even and solid weight distribution, contributing to pilot stability and comfort.
Ergonomics and Seating Geometry
The harness features an upright geometry that encourages a natural, chair-like sitting position. This posture enhances visual awareness of the wing, passenger, and surroundings, which is vital in busy commercial airfields or difficult weather conditions. The design facilitates a smooth transition from running to seated flight, improving takeoff efficiency and pilot responsiveness.
Comfort for Extended Use
Its combination of seat board and leg loops is complemented by foam protection to support long flying days and accommodate various pilot body types. The harness accommodates pilots from 160 to 195 cm tall with a maximum takeoff weight of 120 kg, covering most tandem pilot requirements. Weighing 3.5 kg, it remains light for a fully featured tandem harness, helping to reduce fatigue during repeated hike-ups or when carrying full tandem equipment.
Safety and Durability for Commercial Operations
Protective Features
Safety features include comprehensive foam padding and a replaceable protective film on the underside of the harness, enhancing resistance to abrasion from frequent top-landings, rough takeoff sites, and transport. The integrated reserve parachute container is thoughtfully incorporated within the harness design to shield it from mechanical impacts and adverse weather, a critical factor for professional tandem pilots flying year-round in varied conditions.
Operational Practicality
The harness includes practical details such as an integrated selfie-stick holder, acknowledging the common commercial practice of offering photos or videos during flights. This dedicated attachment improves cockpit safety by avoiding improvised mounting solutions. Additionally, a large radio pocket is positioned on the shoulder strap for easy access to communication equipment while reducing snag risks. The reserve handle’s ambidextrous mounting option caters to individual pilot preferences and operational procedures, enhancing adaptability in diverse scenarios.
Regulatory Compliance and Maintenance
The Loxia² adheres to European standards with EAPR certification and a recommended 24-month inspection interval. This aligns with commercial operators’ maintenance schedules, providing planning reassurance. Technical data such as seat board dimensions and suspension height are published to assist experienced pilots in anticipating handling characteristics, balancing roll stability and feedback appropriate for tandem flight tasks.
Market Positioning and Use Case
Priced in the mid-range for professional tandem pilot harnesses, the Loxia² targets pilots seeking a reliable, tandem-specific tool rather than a minimalist or cross-country pod harness. Its upright, easy-in/easy-out design supports efficient launch and landing procedures and integrates media and communication equipment, emphasizing user comfort and operational practicality across multiple daily flights.
Customer Reviews and Real-World Feedback
As of January 2026, there are no publicly available customer or end-user reviews for the Icaro Loxia² Tandem Pilot Harness on major paragliding retail platforms such as Gleitschirm Direkt and Explore Extremes, nor on Icaro’s official website. This means a thorough analysis of user comfort, long-term durability, and performance in actual commercial settings cannot be conducted at this time. Insights into real-world experiences may currently only be obtained through direct contact with tandem pilots or schools who use the product, or via specialized paragliding forums and social media groups.
Summary and Final Thoughts
The Icaro Loxia² Tandem Pilot Harness emerges as a modern and thoughtfully designed tandem pilot harness. Its hybrid support system, upright seating, and focus on comfort and safety indicate a product well-tailored for commercial tandem pilots and dedicated tandem enthusiasts alike. With features that accommodate the rigors of repeated flights, integration of practical accessories, and compliance with regulatory standards, the Loxia² presents itself as a robust and ergonomic choice for tandem pilots valuing efficiency, safety, and operational readiness.
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