What happened
On November 7, 2020, a paramotor (PPGG) with a Nucleon WRC 34 wing was operating in the vicinity of Gorzyce, near Wodzisław Śląski. During the flight, the aircraft's wing made contact with overhead power lines. The impact caused the electrical wires to snap, resulting in the paramotor's carriage crashing into the ground. The pilot sustained serious injuries and was subsequently transported to a hospital.
The investigation
The State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) reviewed all available materials regarding the incident. The investigation established that the pilot's wing was within its valid airworthiness inspection period and that the pilot held the necessary qualifications for paramotor flight, including PGP, PP, PPG, and Tandem ratings. However, a blood alcohol test performed on the pilot revealed that the flight was being conducted while the pilot was under the influence of alcohol.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot operating the aircraft while intoxicated.
- The aircraft's wing struck energized power lines, leading to the severance of the wires and the subsequent ground impact.