What happened
On March 29, 2025, at approximately 16:55 local time, a recreational paraglider flight in the Puchuncaví commune of the Valparaíso Region ended in an accident. The pilot, operating a BGD Cure 2 paraglider, took off from a designated free-flight area known as "Aire Libre Parapente." Shortly after departure, the aircraft experienced a rapid descent and struck the slope of a nearby hill, specifically in the sector between Maitencillo and Cerro Tacna. The impact resulted in serious injuries to the pilot, while the paraglider itself sustained no significant damage.
The investigation
DGAC Chile initiated an inquiry following the incident, adhering to ICAO Annex 13 standards for accident prevention. Investigators conducted a physical inspection of the equipment and reviewed operational data. The weather conditions at the time were suitable for visual flight rules (VMC). The pilot held a valid license for non-motorized ultralight aircraft and had a current medical certificate, with no prior recorded accidents. The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the rapid descent and the subsequent impact with the terrain.
Findings
Physical examination of the BGD Cure 2 paraglider revealed that the canopy, lines, and control systems were in good condition with no pre-existing defects. The pilot's harness, a WoodyValley GTO Light 2, showed damage consistent with the impact. An emergency parachute was present in the harness compartment. The investigation is currently in the data collection and analysis phase to determine the specific causal factors behind the rapid descent.
Safety action
DGAC Chile is continuing its analysis to identify potential safety issues related to paraglider operations in this region. Once the cause is determined, the authority will issue operational safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents in non-motorized ultralight aviation.