Starlink Connectivity Arrives on Paragliding Trackers: Voolaris Tracker Goes Hybrid
Real-time satellite tracking for paragliding pilots just got a major upgrade. Spanish company Alfapilot has successfully tested Starlink integration on their Voolaris Tracker, bringing high-frequency position updates to remote flying zones far beyond the reach of mobile networks.
After more than two years of development and extensive field testing at international competitions, the team has built a hybrid system that combines 4G LTE mobile networks, bidirectional Fanet communication, and Starlink direct-to-cell satellite connectivity—all in a single, compact unit.
ldquo;This is a breakthrough for our sport,rdquo; said Pedro Enrique from the Alfapilot team. ldquo;These trackers transmit positions once per second, even in areas with no cellular coverage, and the battery can sustain an entire competition week on a single charge.rdquo;
Until now, pilots have had to choose between two main tracking options: competition-grade devices that rely on dense networks of ground-based receivers, or satellite-enabled units like the Garmin inReach that require a clear sky view but only update every few minutes. The Voolaris Tracker aims to bridge that gap.
ldquo;The key advantage is that it is genuinely hybrid,rdquo; added Pedro. ldquo;It automatically switches between satellite, terrestrial and device-to-device connectivity depending on what coverage is available. And unlike other satellite trackers on the market, it delivers one position per second—whether you are under a clear sky or in a mountain valley.rdquo;
The Voolaris Tracker has been on the market since March 2025 and is already in use at competitions and flight schools across Spain. The Starlink satellite service is expected to go live later this year or in early 2027, with subscription pricing to be announced. The tracker was developed through a joint effort between Alfapilot and tracking platform Volandoo.
For pilots serious about their gear, having reliable flight equipment and accessories is just as important as tracking technology. Whether you are competing at altitude or exploring remote flying sites, the right setup makes all the difference.
Source: Cross Country Magazine