What happened
On June 12, 2021, a pilot operating a Skywalk Cumeo paraglider was engaged in a recreational flight near Cerro Minillas in the Santiago Precordillera. While flying in the Panul sector, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The paraglider experienced a collapse of the wing, causing the pilot to descend approximately 30 meters before impacting the terrain. The pilot sustained serious injuries in the crash, and emergency responders from the Carabineros helicopter service were required to evacuate the individual from the site.
The investigation
DGAC Chile investigators examined the aircraft, the pilot's credentials, and the local meteorological conditions. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid license and medical certification for unpowered ultralight operations. Physical inspections of the Skywalk Cumeo revealed no visible damage to the wing, lines, or control systems, and the emergency parachute remained packed in its harness. A porosity test on the wing fabric showed the material was in good condition.
Investigators also reviewed weather data from the Chilean Meteorological Directorate. While the pilot reported that unstable thermal currents caused the wing to collapse, meteorological reports for the period did not indicate significant turbulence or cloud formations that would confirm the presence of unstable thermals. Additionally, the investigation noted that the aircraft was not included in the DGAC's official registry for unpowered ultralight aircraft.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of lift of the unpowered ultralight aircraft during flight.
- The collapse of the wing was a contributing factor, as the pilot was unable to recover normal flight conditions.
- The low altitude at the time of the wing collapse prevented the pilot from having sufficient time to deploy the emergency parachute.
- The presence of unstable thermal currents was identified as a probable contributing factor, despite conflicting meteorological data.
- The aircraft was not registered with the DGAC, which constitutes a deviation from aeronautical regulations.