Fatal Powered Paraglider Accident at Piła Aerodrome

Casualties unknown • EPPI, PL

A pilot died following a powered paraglider accident involving a wing entanglement during dynamic maneuvers at EPPI aerodrome.

What happened

On April 11, 2026, a pilot holding a PGP qualification took off in a powered paraglider (PPG) equipped with a Dudek Snake 24 wing from the aerodrome in Piła (EPPI). The flight consisted of various dynamic maneuvers, including climbs, turns, and altitude changes. During one of these maneuvers, while at an altitude of no more than 20 meters, the suspension lines became tangled. This entanglement caused a loss of control over the wing and a sudden loss of altitude, resulting in the pilot striking the grassy surface of the airfield.

The investigation

The PKBWL investigation team dispatched an expert to the site to collect data and evidence. The flight sequence was captured on video, which will undergo detailed analysis as part of the ongoing investigation. The aircraft equipment is scheduled for technical inspection to determine the extent of the damage and its overall condition.

Probable cause

The entanglement of the suspension lines during low-altitude maneuvers led to a loss of flight control and a subsequent fatal impact with the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2026-04-11 Dudek, 24Snake accident near EPPI, PL?

A pilot died following a powered paraglider accident involving a wing entanglement during dynamic maneuvers at EPPI aerodrome.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2026-04-11 involved a Dudek, 24Snake, operated by Prywatny (Private), at EPPI, PL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The entanglement of the suspension lines during low-altitude maneuvers led to a loss of flight control and a subsequent fatal impact with the ground.

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2026-0010/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.

Loading the flight search…