What happened
On July 15, 2025, a training flight involving a SOL Paraglider Flexus 2 resulted in a collision near EPIN. The flight was part of a student pilot's training program to obtain PPG certification. During the session, an instructor had designated specific takeoff and landing areas for the student.
The student pilot had successfully completed an initial solo flight earlier that day, adhering to the instructor's flight plan. However, during the second solo flight, the student began an approach to land that deviated from the instructor's instructions. As the student approached the landing zone, the instructor monitored the flight via radio and issued corrective commands to ensure the student reached the designated landing area. The student pilot failed to respond to these radio instructions.
During the landing maneuver, the SOL Paraglider Flexus 2 collided with another powered paraglider that was stationary at the takeoff area. The student pilot sustained serious injuries as a result of the impact.
The investigation
The investigation, which concluded based on a report provided by SkyTrekking sp. z o.o., established that the student pilot intended to land at a location other than the one specified by the instructor. The investigation focused on the student's failure to follow radio commands and the lack of separation from obstacles during the final approach.
Findings
- The student pilot made a decision to change the landing location without prior coordination or agreement with the instructor.
- The direct cause of the accident was the student pilot's improper planning of the landing approach, which failed to maintain sufficient separation from obstacles present at the student's chosen landing site.