The NOVA AONIC 2 paraglider stands out as a sophisticated EN/LTF A-class wing, designed to provide more than just basic safety for progressing pilots. With its advanced technical features including 51 cells, high aspect ratio, mini-ribs, and an optimized line layout, it aims to deliver enhanced performance without compromising the forgiving nature essential for early solo and post-school pilots.
Design Philosophy and Target Pilot
This wing is not a beginner-only glider but rather a bridge for pilots moving beyond initial training. It is ideally suited for students after their first solo who seek a “real” glider experience, safety-conscious cross-country (XC) and thermal pilots, fans of the original AONIC wanting upgraded precision, and return pilots desiring a balanced challenge. The AONIC 2 offers a blend of lively sportiness and EN-A safety, making it a long-term companion for relaxed XC and thermal flying.
Handling Characteristics and the Feeling of Freedom
Pilots widely praise the AONIC 2 for its direct yet stable brake response that is progressive without being nervous. Turns are described as alive and sporty with excellent bank control, providing an engaging flying experience uncommon in the A-class. Its coherent thermal handling allows the wing to "bite" into lift, enabling smooth and efficient climbs with less pilot fatigue. The wing’s revised brake geometry and increased attachment points translate into strong flare authority, permitting soft, confident landings even in calm conditions.
While some pilots transitioning from very damped school wings find the AONIC 2 livelier initially, most appreciate the increased feedback and control after a few flights. The balance between pitch stability and dynamic feedback helps maintain pilot confidence and enjoyment.
Performance and Speed
The AONIC 2 competes near the top of the EN-A category in terms of glide and speed, with many pilots noting it can keep pace with lower-end EN-B wings when actively flown. Its reduced line concept reduces drag and simplifies pre-flight handling. The wing sustains solid internal pressure, especially when accelerated, resulting in stable high-speed transitions. Thanks to its 51-cell canopy and clean sail profile, the glider climbs efficiently in weak lift, rewarding good technique with improved climb rates.
However, ambitious XC pilots flying strong conditions may eventually outgrow the AONIC 2 and look to EN-B wings for higher performance.
Safety, Comfort, and Turbulence Behavior
Safety remains a cornerstone of the AONIC 2’s design. It demonstrates strong collapse resistance and predictable recovery behavior, with induced collapses and big ears reopening smoothly and calmly without aggressive dives or surges. The wing requires some active piloting in turbulence but does not demand constant corrections, significantly reducing pilot workload and allowing less experienced flyers to relax more in rough air.
Some very timid pilots may find the wing more communicative than ultra-dormant school gliders, but this feedback is appreciated by most as a valuable flying aid rather than a safety concern.
Launch, Ground Handling, and Practicality
The AONIC 2 inflates evenly and controllably, making it manageable for pilots who have learned proper launch techniques. Its solid leading edge and relatively light sail aid in kiting and ground handling, while the simplified line set reduces tangling and pre-flight preparation time. The wing’s materials strike a well-balanced compromise between lightness and durability, making it suitable for everyday flying and hike-and-fly without sacrificing longevity.
Build Quality and Durability
NOVA employs premium materials such as Porcher Skytex 38 for the leading edge, Skytex 27 Classic 2 for the sail, and Skytex 32 Hard Finish for the internal structure to minimize stretch and maintain profile integrity. Customer reports confirm high-quality stitching, robust risers, and a fabric that maintains its shape and performance over extended use, especially when pilots adhere to suggested line trim checks during the first 10-20 hours.
Summary of Key Advantages and Considerations
- High safety margin combined with sporty, precise handling atypical for EN-A wings.
- Strong thermal efficiency and performance, including speed on the accelerator.
- Easy ground handling and simplified line layout for usability.
- Excellent flare authority for confident, soft landings.
- Robust construction with attention to long-term durability.
- Not ideal for absolute beginners who need ultra-passive wings.
- Performance ceiling reached by ambitious cross-country pilots.
- No ultra-light version available for dedicated hike-and-fly enthusiasts.
Overall Customer Sentiment
Feedback from dealers, schools, and pilot communities is overwhelmingly positive. The NOVA AONIC 2 is seen as a successful realization of its promise: delivering a genuine “A-class feeling of freedom” that blends psychological comfort with active, rewarding flight characteristics. It matches well with motivated new pilots, recreational thermal flyers, and returnees seeking a safe yet engaging wing for multiple flying seasons.
For those interested in more information and to explore options, visit the manufacturer's website. To order and equip yourself with the NOVA AONIC 2, check out Paragliding.me for expert service and support.