What happened
On October 31, 2024, at approximately 16:05 UTC, an unpowered ultralight paraglider was involved in a flight accident near the coast of Iquique, Chile. The pilot had departed from Alto Hospicio and was conducting a recreational flight southward along the coastline. While approximately 20 km south of the departure point, the pilot lost control of the aircraft, leading to a high-velocity impact with the terrain near the Caleta Los Verdes sector.
The impact occurred on a 45-degree slope characterized by semi-soft sand and small stones. As a result of the collision, the pilot sustained serious injuries. The aircraft itself remained intact following the impact.
The investigation
DGAC Chile investigators examined the wreckage and the flight conditions at the time of the occurrence. The inspection of the paraglider revealed no structural damage to the canopy, harness, suspension lines, or shroud lines. The emergency parachute remained packed in its compartment and was not deployed during the descent. Regarding safety equipment, the pilot was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, and the harness safety belts were found to be in good condition.
Meteorological data for the Iquique area at the time of the accident indicated favorable flying conditions, with visibility exceeding 10 km, winds from the west at 9 knots, and partial cloud cover at 3,200 feet. The investigation is currently in the analysis phase to determine the specific sequence of events leading to the loss of control.