Introduction
On 10 October 2021, a paramotor glider accident occurred near Cape Greco, Cyprus, during a medieval festival that included an international paramotor activity organized by the local municipality. The Cyprus Civil Aviation had granted permission for the activity, which was scheduled between 6 and 11 October 2021. More than fifty pilots from various countries participated.
Event History
On the day of the accident, a group of paramotor pilots flew toward Cape Greco Cliff to explore the area. One pilot flew too close to the cliff, where he encountered turbulence and a change in wind direction. This caused his canopy to collapse, forcing him toward the cliff. He impacted the cliff and sustained multiple injuries. The other pilots, who maintained greater distance from the cliff, returned safely. The injured pilot was rescued by the Paralimni Fire Station personnel and then transferred by an OKYNY ambulance to Paralimni Hospital. The operation was coordinated by the Larnaca Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC).
Injuries and Damage
The pilot, aged 51 and experienced in international paramotor competitions, suffered severe injuries: multiple fractures of the pelvis requiring several surgeries, and a broken leg. The paramotor glider (registration 77BWT) sustained damage: the canopy had several suspension lines cut, the engine protective frame was bent, both propeller tips were torn, and the protective net was cut in places. No other damage was reported.
Meteorological Conditions
Meteorological data from the Cape Greco station at the time of the accident showed wind direction 248°, wind speed 8 knots gusting to 14 knots, temperature 25°C, and relative humidity 72%.
Investigation
The accident occurred after the completion of the organized paramotor activity, when a few pilots decided on their own to fly toward Cape Greco Cliff and back, thereby violating the permission granted, which was only for the organized activity. The investigation determined that the pilot's decision to fly too close to the cliff, combined with the turbulence and wind shift, led to the canopy collapse and subsequent impact.