What happened
On September 1, 2024, at approximately 14:00 local time, a SkyWalk Join't 3 paraglider was operating in the Las Vizcachas sector of Puente Alto, within the Metropolitan Region of Chile. The aircraft, carrying one pilot and one passenger, was in the final phase of flight, approaching for landing. During a right-hand turn, the wing reportedly lost its normal aerodynamic configuration and entered a stall. This sudden loss of lift caused the aircraft to descend rapidly into the terrain. Both occupants sustained serious injuries, specifically spinal trauma, while the paraglider itself remained undamaged.
The investigation
The Chilean Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) examined the physical condition of the equipment and the operational context. The pilot held a valid ultralight license and had approximately 300 hours of flight experience, including specific training for two-seater operations. The aircraft was a 2023 model with a serial number of SGJ 030 SLE-2023-46662. At the time of the incident, the wing had not yet reached its manufacturer-recommended inspection interval of 24 months or 200 hours. The DGAC noted that while the operator was registered with the National Tourism Service (Sernatur) for commercial paragliding activities, the specific ultralight vehicle did not hold a DGAC-issued airworthiness certificate or identification form, as is common in this sector where operators assume personal responsibility.
Findings
The investigation established that weather conditions were generally suitable for visual flight rules, with sunny skies and calm winds initially. However, a witness reported a sudden change in wind direction at the moment of the accident. The pilot attributed the incident to turbulence or a catabatic wind—a dense air current descending from higher elevations—which disrupted the wing's stability during the turn. This aerodynamic disturbance led to an uncommanded stall and subsequent impact with the ground. Both occupants were wearing protective helmets, and the aircraft was equipped with an emergency parachute, which likely mitigated the severity of the injuries.
Safety action
The investigation is currently in the final review stage. The DGAC is preparing its final report to determine definitive causal factors and issue safety recommendations aimed at improving operational standards for two-seater paraglider activities in the region.