What happened
On August 25, 2024, at approximately 17:55 LMT, a paramotor incident occurred in Krasnystaw, Poland, during the "Chmieloty 2024" paragliding picnic. The aircraft involved was an APCO Aviation Ltd Force M paramotor with a backpack engine.
At the time of the event, the official organized portion of the event had concluded, and cleanup activities were underway. The pilot was not listed as an official participant in the event and did not possess a designated start number. As the pilot prepared for takeoff, the flight speed immediately after liftoff was notably low. At an altitude of approximately 10 to 15 meters, the pilot initiated a sharp left turn with significant bank angle. This maneuver resulted in a wing stall, causing the aircraft to strike the ground.
Emergency services, including the Polish Medical Air Rescue (LPR), fire departments, and police, responded to the scene. While the aircraft sustained damage, including a broken propeller and a ruptured fuel tank, the pilot sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) reviewed the available evidence, including statements from the event organizer and medical reports. The investigation confirmed that the pilot's blood alcohol content was 0.23 mg/l in exhaled air, indicating the pilot was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.