What happened
On June 2, 2019, at approximately 07:10 LMT, a pilot launched an APCO PPG paramotor from the southern part of the Włocławek Aeroclub (EPWK) in Kruszym for a recreational flight. The pilot was performing various maneuvers, including deep turns with variable bank angles and spirals, at altitudes ranging from approximately 300 meters down to nearly ground level.
While flying near the A1 motorway in the vicinity of Ludwinowo, the pilot entered a left-hand spiral. During this maneuver, the left side of the wing partially collapsed. The pilot subsequently increased engine power, which significantly increased the rotation speed and accelerated the descent. Within 12 seconds of the wing collapse, the aircraft struck the ground. The pilot sustained fatal injuries at the scene.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the aircraft equipment, the pilot's training, and flight footage from a helmet camera. The investigation confirmed that the APCO PPG wing was airworthy and the VITTORAZI Moster 185 engine was functioning correctly until the moment of impact. The pilot held valid qualifications for powered paragliding (PPG) and was not under the influence of alcohol. The investigation also reviewed the flight conditions, noting that the weather was clear (VMC) with light winds and had no impact on the accident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was incorrect pilot input following the entry into a spiral dive.
- The pilot's decision to increase engine power during the spiral intensified the rotation and descent rate.
- The absence of a reserve parachute system meant there was no secondary means of recovery once the spiral became unrecoverable.
- The pilot's tendency to engage in high-risk maneuvers contributed to the accident circumstances.