What happened
On July 3, 2016, a paraglider pilot was performing a ridge soaring flight near Kiełp. The weather conditions at the time featured a wind from 340 degrees at a speed of 3-5 m/s, characterized by moderate strength with minor gusts. The thermal activity was developing slowly, and conditions were considered suitable for soaring provided the pilot remained close to the slope.
While flying north over a wooded area at an altitude of approximately 15 meters, the pilot entered a narrow and strong area of turbulence lasting about two seconds. This sudden disturbance caused a collapse of the leading edge, affecting approximately three-quarters of the right side of the Advance Omega 8 wing. The wing began to dive and gain speed. Shortly thereafter, a similar collapse occurred on the left side, leading to a total wing collapse and an uncontrolled descent. The pilot struck a small clearing in the forest on the slope, resulting in one fatality.
The investigation
The investigation, concluded by the user-led inquiry, examined the flight dynamics and environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation focused on the sequence of aerodynamic failures of the wing and the altitude at which the incident occurred.