What happened
On 23 November 2019, a pilot operating a Z-Blade Canopy Paramotor took off from the Paramotor Desert Adventures Club in the Margham area of Dubai. The flight was intended as a routine leisure operation. During the takeoff sequence, the pilot performed a second wing launch after an initial unsuccessful attempt.
At approximately 17:03 local time, the aircraft lifted off. However, shortly after reaching an altitude of 15 meters, the aircraft veered sharply to the right and entered a steep, downward-facing attitude while traveling at high speed. The pilot struck the ground with significant force. Despite immediate medical intervention and transport via helicopter, the pilot, who was the one fatality in the accident, passed away before reaching the hospital.
The investigation
The GCAA AAIS investigation examined the pilot's training, the aircraft's mechanical state, and the club's operational procedures. Investigators reviewed CCTV footage of the takeoff and interviewed the Field Officer on duty. The investigation also included a flight test by the aircraft owner under supervisory oversight to evaluate the impact of engine torque on the aircraft's stability.
Findings
- The pilot was medically fit and had no history of using psychoactive substances.
- The Z-Blade Canopy Paramotor was mechanically sound, with no defects found in the engine or airframe.
- The weather conditions were within safe operational limits for paramotor flight.
- The pilot failed to perform necessary seat adjustments on the ground, which is a required part of the standard operating procedure (SOP).
- Because the seat was not adjusted prior to takeoff, the pilot attempted to adjust his position and get seated while already in flight, at an altitude below the recommended 20-meter threshold.
- This attempt to adjust the seat caused a significant distraction, leading the pilot to pull the right brake handle excessively, which induced the uncontrolled right turn and subsequent dive.
- The investigation determined that engine torque was not a significant factor in the loss of control.
Safety action
- The club is advised to seek formal approval from the GCAA for its light sport aviation activities.
- It is recommended that the Field Officer's responsibilities be expanded to include safety assurance and oversight of pre-flight checks on the ground.
- The club should implement a comprehensive risk assessment regarding its current pre-flight checklist procedures.