PARAGLIDING TOURISM AND ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF BABADAG PARAGLIDING CENTER

Abstract

This study addresses the importance of paragliding activities in the Ölüdeniz region of Fethiye in terms of national and regional tourism. In addition to several international activities organized in Ölüdeniz, Babadağ has become a globally renowned tourism destination for paragliding, with the number of flights and tourism revenues increasing every year. In this study, the economic, social and environmental impacts of Babadağ on the region are evaluated, and some suggestions for sustainability are presented. Tandem paragliding flights for tourism from the 1965-meter Babadağ with the view of Ölüdeniz contributed more than 15 million dollars to the regional economy in 2024. The multiplier effect of this direct income and its impact on sectors such as accommodation, food and beverage and travel are important for the regional economy. The number of visitors to the country and the region and the region's revenues from paragliding for the last 5 years have been analyzed with comparative tables, and the effects of this on the regional economy have been explained with tables and graphs. Considering its international value, paragliding activities in Babadağ need to be protected and developed. In this context, the problems faced by the destination and solution proposals are discussed in terms of sustainability. Suggestions are given for economic, social and environmental sustainability. Legal regulations such as safety standards, air traffic management, environmental regulations, and capacity limitations are included. In addition, strategic marketing techniques and digital promotion campaigns are suggested to increase international recognition. It is concluded that Babadağ is an important tourism destination not only for Fethiye and Turkey but also on a global scale.

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