What happened
On August 27, 2023, at approximately 14:00 local time, an unlicensed operator engaged in a recreational flight using an OZONE Buzz Z4 paraglider near El Yeco Beach in the Valparaíso Region. The pilot, who was undergoing flight instruction but lacked the necessary student pilot license and authorization for solo flight, performed the maneuver without the supervision or permission of their flight instructor.
During the flight, the pilot attempted a turn toward the south but drifted too far from the hillside, losing the necessary lift to maintain altitude. In an attempt to perform a controlled landing, the pilot steered toward the northern section of the beach. During the descent, the pilot's left foot struck a rock on the terrain, resulting in serious injuries. The pilot was subsequently evacuated by air to a medical center. The paraglider itself sustained no damage.
The investigation
DGAC Chile examined the circumstances surrounding the unauthorized flight, focusing on the pilot's credentials, the aircraft's registration status, and the flight maneuvers. The investigation established that the operator was a student under an approved instruction program but was not legally permitted to fly solo. Furthermore, the OZONE Buzz Z4 paraglider was not registered with the DGAC, meaning it had not undergone the required physical inspections or weight and performance verifications by the authority.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's experience, noting that while the individual had completed three hours of tandem instruction, this was their first time operating this specific equipment alone and their first time flying in this specific coastal area. The investigation also noted that the pilot was not carrying an emergency parachute in the harness at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The pilot performed a solo flight without the required student pilot license or instructor authorization.
- The pilot lacked familiarity with the specific flight area and the local wind conditions.
- The pilot was operating a piece of equipment they were not yet experienced with in a solo capacity.
- The pilot struck a rock during the landing sequence after losing altitude due to drifting away from the hillside.
- The paraglider was not officially registered or inspected by the DGAC.
- The pilot was not equipped with an emergency parachute during the flight.
- Meteorological conditions were favorable and did not contribute to the accident.