What happened
On 11 May 2019, a pilot launched an Ozone Delta 3 paraglider from Sorrel Hill, Co. Wicklow, intending to complete a cross-country flight toward Wexford. The flight began at 11:33 hrs under favorable weather conditions, characterized by light winds and clear visibility. After gaining significant altitude, reaching a peak of approximately 1,706 meters, the pilot navigated through the Glenmalur Valley.
During the flight, the pilot maintained radio contact with a fellow paraglider for a period, but contact was eventually lost. Flight data recovered from a mobile device indicated that the paraglider began a gradual descent through the valley before eventually coming to rest on the north slope of Ballinacor Mountain at 13:05 hrs. The pilot was located the following morning by mountain rescue teams.
The investigation
The AAIU examined the paraglider equipment, the pilot's flight history, and meteorological data. An inspection of the Ozone Delta 3 by a specialized service center in the United Kingdom confirmed the wing and lines were in excellent condition, with no mechanical or structural issues found that could have contributed to the accident.
The investigation also reviewed the pilot's extensive experience, noting a recorded 435 hours of cross-country flight time. Furthermore, a post-mortem examination was conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the pilot's death. The medical findings revealed no evidence of trauma or fractures that would suggest a high-velocity impact, suggesting a relatively low descent rate at the time of contact with the ground.
Findings
- The pilot was an experienced flyer with a Para Pro 3 rating and significant international flight experience.
- The paraglider was well-maintained and operating within its approved weight range.
- Meteorological conditions were stable, with light winds and minimal mountain wave activity.
- The post-mortem examination determined that the cause of death was an acute myocardial infarction caused by coronary artery thrombosis.
- It is concluded that the medical event likely occurred while the pilot was still airborne, leading to the uncontrolled descent of the aircraft.