What happened
On July 31, 2024, a recreational dual flight was underway in the Las Vizcachas area of the Cajón del Maipo, near Puente Alto. The pilot was operating an Air Design Ride 3 paraglider, carrying one passenger, with plans to land on a synthetic grass platform approximately 850 meters from the takeoff site on Cerro Banco.
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft encountered a wind gust from the northeast, causing the first collapse of the paraglider wing. As the pilot attempted to manage the situation, a second collapse occurred. The pilot, recognizing the deteriorating situation, instructed the passenger to prepare for an emergency landing in a nearby wooded area. However, a third gust of turbulent wind triggered a subsequent collapse, leading to a total loss of flight control. During the uncontrolled descent, the paraglider struck a steel cable used for canopy activities, which was positioned 6 meters above the ground, before impacting the terrain.
The investigation
The DGAC Chile investigation examined the meteorological conditions, the aircraft's airworthiness, and the pilot's operational decisions. Investigators reviewed data from the Chilean Meteorological Directorate, which confirmed that the area was experiencing pre-frontal conditions with moderate turbulence and variable winds reaching approximately 19 km/h.
Regarding the aircraft, the investigation found that while the Air Design Ride 3 was relatively new—having been manufactured in early 2023—it had not yet reached its first required 24-month or 150-hour inspection interval. However, the investigation noted that the operator had not completed the required registration process with the DGAC, meaning the aircraft lacked the necessary identification documents required for dual flights under local regulations.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of lift caused by repeated asymmetric wing collapses triggered by turbulence.
- The decision to proceed with a second flight during unstable meteorological conditions was a critical risk factor.
- The presence of a steel cable at a low altitude contributed to the severity of the impact.
- The pilot and passenger both sustained serious injuries during the collision and subsequent 6-meter fall.
- The aircraft sustained significant damage, including torn fabric and severed suspension lines.