What happened
On October 23, 2022, a group of pilots gathered for paramotor flights in a large, flat meadow in Nadbór, near Koszalin. The weather conditions were favorable, characterized by calm winds and a temperature of approximately 11°C.
An experienced pilot prepared a Dudek Paragliders DriftAir 18 paramotor equipped with a two-stroke engine and a reserve parachute. At approximately 17:30, the pilot took off. During the flight, which lasted about four minutes, the pilot performed various maneuvers, changing altitude and speed. Data recovered from the pilot's Skytraxx X 2.0 Plus device indicates that the pilot was likely using the "speed system" to fly at a lower angle of attack, which increased the aircraft's speed.
Upon reaching an altitude of 230 m AGL, the aircraft entered a steep spiral dive with the engine still running. The aircraft struck the ground at a high velocity, with a descent rate of at least 10 m/s. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts by emergency services, the pilot was pronounced dead at the scene. The paramotor equipment was destroyed.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined witness statements, flight data from the Skytraxx device, and the physical condition of the equipment. The investigation analyzed the flight trajectory, the use of the speed system, and the physiological effects of high G-forces. The commission also reviewed the pilot's extensive flight experience and qualifications (PPG/PP).
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot continuing the spiral dive to an altitude that was too low, leaving insufficient room to recover to level flight.
- High centrifugal forces and increasing G-loads during the tight spiral may have caused the pilot to lose situational awareness or even lose consciousness.
- The use of the speed system contributed to the increased velocity during the dive.
- The engine was still running during the spiral, which may have contributed to the deepening of the dive.
- There was no evidence of a wing stall or any attempt by the pilot to use the reserve parachute or recover the flight path.