The School

Airlinks Academy, founded in 2012 on the shores of Lake Annecy, is a paragliding school specialising in SIV courses, cross country (XC) courses and flying tours.

All courses are taught by Seiko Fukuoka, a former acro competitor, cross-country competitor, world flight record holder and test pilot, who is also a mental coach.

She also specialises in flying techniques (both mental and physical) for female pilots.

Lessons are given in English, French and Japanese.

Our paragliding school focuses on the development of advanced technical skills to fully master the latest wing models while integrating mental coaching.

We encourage you to discover the beauty of paragliding with us before old flying habits or outdated techniques get in the way.

of coaching

World Champion

European Champion

A Message from
Seiko Fukuoka

Flying well isn’t about being fearless—it’s about knowing what to do and staying calm when it matters. At AirLinks Academy we build that calm, step by step. We train over Lake Annecy with one-by-one radio guidance, a safety boat, and HD video debriefs, so every flight turns into a clear lesson you’ll remember.

Whether you’re here for your first SIV or to plan 100-km XC lines, we’ll meet you at your level and progress safely and efficiently. My coaching blends elite competition experience with practical, structured drills and mindset work—because confidence grows from understanding, not luck.
I look forward to flying with you and helping you master your wing.

Seiko Fukuoka

Co-Founder & Head Coach · World & European Champion

Coaching Philosophy & Method

Train smarter. Progress faster.

  • Briefing & kit check — Weather, objectives, equipment.
  • Radio-guided flights — One by one, clear tasks, low workload.
  • Over-water safety — Safety boat & flotation vests during SIV.
  • HD video debrief — Turn each flight into memorable lessons.
  • Personal plan — Leave with concrete next steps.

Safety framework

Safety is not a slogan—it’s a system. Your job: arrive rested, honest about your level, and ready to learn.

  • We train above water.
  • Safety boat on standby.
  • Flotation vests provided for SIV.
  • One-by-one radio guidance.
  • We brief → fly → debrief.
  • Only when conditions are appropriate.

Insurance and valid rating/license are required per your country rules. If weather or numbers don’t meet our thresholds, we’ll reschedule or refund according to policy.

Location & Facilities

Our base is in Doussard, at the south end of Lake Annecy. The training zone above the lake offers reliable, clean air and excellent logistics—launches nearby, efficient retrieves, easy shoreline landings. It’s a place pilots dream to fly, and a perfect classroom in the sky.

AirLinks Academy | 1233 route de Talloires Doussard 74210 France

Travel & stay

  • Getting here — Airports: Geneva (GVA), Lyon (LYS). Car hire is convenient; public transport to Annecy is possible.
  • Where to stay — Doussard, Talloires or Annecy offer guesthouses, apartments and campsites. Book early in high season.
  • What to pack — Warm layers, sun protection, water & snacks, action camera (optional), SD/USB for debrief videos.

SIV Pre-Course Checklist

  • Wing & harness in good condition
  • Reserve parachute (recent repack recommended)
  • Helmet & gloves
  • VHF radio (limited units available on request)
  • For SIV: be a self-sufficient pilot (launch/land confidently)
  • Bring SD card / USB to take debrief videos

Ready to train with us?

See Upcoming Dates Contact Us