What happened
On June 9, 2021, at approximately 19:00, a 34-year-old pilot attempted a paragliding flight near Besiekiery, Poland. The flight was being conducted using a 100-meter tow rope attached to a bus. The takeoff took place on an unpaved track passing through agricultural fields, which was free of significant terrain obstacles. According to the tow vehicle driver, the initial takeoff and towing process proceeded normally. After the pilot disconnected from the tow line to begin free flight, one wingtip collapsed at an altitude of approximately 20 meters. This caused the paraglider to descend rapidly and strike the ground. The pilot was rendered unconscious and transported by Air Ambulance to a hospital in Łódź, where he passed away several hours later.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigated the circumstances surrounding the accident and contacted the Civil Aviation Authorities of both Poland and Ukraine to verify the pilot's credentials. The investigation established that the individual was not listed in any aviation personnel registers and held no known aviation licenses or qualifications.
Findings
- The pilot was unauthorized to operate the aircraft.
- A wingtip collapse occurred during free flight at a low altitude.
- The accident resulted in one fatality.