What happened
On June 26, 2020, during a fifth-day training session at the Michałków (EPOM) aerodrome, a student was performing wing control exercises using a Nemo XX 25 paraglider. The exercise, conducted via manual towing in light wind conditions (1 m/s with gusts up to 2 m/s), required the student to inflate, stabilize, and control the direction of the wing.
During the maneuver, the student applied the brakes too abruptly, generating enough lift to lift the wing approximately one meter off the ground. This action caused the center of gravity to shift to the left, resulting in a leftward turn. The flight path became asymmetrical, with the left brake being pulled approximately 20 cm and the right brake only 10 cm. Despite the instructor issuing repeated commands to use the right brake to correct the course and ensure a gentle landing, the student failed to react. This lack of response led to a sharp left turn and a dynamic landing. The student sustained a mild concussion and a fractured left clavicle, requiring emergency medical transport to a hospital.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the final report provided by the aircraft operator, which detailed the sequence of events during the manual towing exercise. The investigation focused on the student's physical response to instructor commands and the mechanical behavior of the wing during the sudden inflation.
Findings
- The direct cause of the incident was asymmetrical control of the paraglider wing.
- A contributing factor was the student's lack of motor coordination during situations requiring rapid and conscious reactions.
Safety action
Following the incident, the training center reviewed the student's ability to continue training, noting a tendency to freeze during high-pressure maneuvers. As a preventive measure, the training center has increased the emphasis on ground-based exercises and repetitions specifically designed to improve coordination and wing control.