What happened
On July 9, 2017, at approximately 18:43 LMT, a pilot was preparing a paramotor for takeoff at the Motoparalotnia site in Ostrów Wielkopolski-Michałków (EPOM). While standing by the trolley, the pilot performed a ground engine test. As the engine RPM was increased, the rope securing the trolley failed, causing the trolley to roll forward unexpectedly. During this movement, the rotating propeller struck the pilot's arm, resulting in skin abrasions and bleeding on the forearm.
Witnesses at the scene immediately intervened to stop the trolley and shut down the engine. Emergency medical services were summoned to the site, where a physician provided initial treatment before the pilot was transported to the hospital for precautionary observation. A subsequent alcohol test confirmed a blood alcohol content of 0.00 ‰.
The investigation
The investigation was conducted by the airport management. The inquiry focused on the mechanical stability of the equipment during ground operations and the integrity of the securing mechanisms used to prevent uncontrolled movement of the trolley during engine testing.