Powered paraglider wing caught high-voltage line during landing approach in Płock

Casualties unknown • Płock, PL

A powered paraglider wing ignited after striking a high-voltage power line during a landing approach in Płock, Poland.

What happened

On March 28, 2020, a pilot operating a powered paraglider was performing a landing approach toward a grassy area near a church property in Płock. During the descent, the pilot lost control of the aircraft, causing the wing to strike a high-voltage power line. The contact between the wing and the electrical line resulted in the wing catching fire. To avoid injury, the pilot unclipped from the seat and jumped to the ground. The pilot sustained no injuries, though the paraglider wing suffered severe damage.

The investigation

The investigation examined the sequence of events leading to the contact with the power line and the subsequent fire. The pilot, who held a valid PGP qualification and authorization to fly powered paragliders, was tested for alcohol consumption following the incident, yielding a result of 0.00mg/l.

Probable cause

The primary cause of the incident was the loss of control of the powered paraglider during the landing approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2020-03-28 b.d. (ND) accident near Płock, PL?

A powered paraglider wing ignited after striking a high-voltage power line during a landing approach in Płock, Poland.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2020-03-28 involved a b.d. (ND), operated by Pilot paralotniowy, at Płock, PL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The primary cause of the incident was the loss of control of the powered paraglider during the landing approach.

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2020-1025/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.

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