What happened
On August 1, 1997, during a training flight at Jämi aerodrome, a student paraglider was performing a high-altitude tow-assisted takeoff using a Firebird Uno Piccolo. The flight was part of an introductory course. Following standard procedures, the student prepared for a headwind takeoff using a bicycle-style tow method. After receiving the signal that the vehicle was ready, the student initiated the takeoff.
As the paraglider ascended to approximately 30 meters, the flight initially appeared controlled. However, the aircraft began to veer right, contrary to the planned flight path. During this maneuver, the instructor attempted to issue verbal commands to the student, but the student did not hear the instructions. To prevent further deviation, the instructor signaled the tow vehicle driver to stop, which resulted in the tow rope being disconnected. Despite the disconnection, the student did not release the tow hook from the harness. The paraglender continued to turn, eventually completing a 180-degree turn into a tailwind, which led to an uncontrolled, steep dive into the ground.
The investigation
The investigation examined the mechanics of the tow, the student's maneuvers, and the communication between the instructor and the pilot. It was established that the tow was conducted using a 1200-meter-long, 6mm braided nylon rope. The investigation found that while the student attempted to correct the rightward turn by shifting weight to the left, the control inputs were insufficient.
Furthermore, the investigation determined that the student was unable to hear the instructor's shouted commands due to the distance, the noise of the airflow through the helmet, and the physiological stress of the situation. Although the tow rope had been disconnected from the vehicle, the student remained attached to the rope, which was being dragged along the ground, creating significant resistance of approximately 300 N.
Findings
- The student lacked sufficient theoretical knowledge regarding how to react when the aircraft enters a lock-out flight state.
- Because the student did not recognize the instability, they failed to release the tow hook from the harness.
- The student's control inputs to correct the flight path and manage speed were not forceful enough.
- The student's lack of flight experience and inadequate theoretical understanding were the primary contributing factors to the accident.
- The student sustained a fractured hip during the impact.
- The Firebird Uno Piccolo sustained structural damage, including bent control triangle tubes and deformed nose plates.