What happened
On April 18, 2020, a tandem paragliding flight involving a PAŠA 3-42 paraglider ended in a serious accident near the Velký Javorník takeoff site. Following a period of waiting for favorable wind conditions, the pilot initiated the flight without completing the necessary passenger securing procedures.
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot realized the passenger was sliding out of the seat because the harness leg and chest straps had not been fastened. The passenger was left hanging by the shoulder straps, a position that caused her significant pain. In an attempt to land as quickly as possible, the pilot deployed the reserve parachute after approximately three minutes of flight. However, the reserve canopy became entangled in the treetops of a dense forest.
During the emergency landing, the passenger's borrowed helmet slipped over her eyes, obscuring her vision. While suspended in the trees, the passenger eventually lost her grip on the harness straps and fell approximately 15 meters to the ground. The passenger sustained severe injuries to her lower limbs and was transported by helicopter to a hospital emergency department. The pilot remained uninjured.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined video footage from the passenger's helmet and a witness's camera, as well as statements from the pilot, the passenger, and a witness. The investigation established that the pilot failed to perform a comprehensive passenger check and did not provide a proper safety briefing. The pilot also interrupted the securing process to focus on other preparations, leaving the passenger unfastened while moving around the takeoff area.
Additionally, the investigation found that the paraglider was being operated without valid third-party liability insurance and during a period when commercial flights were prohibited. The investigation also noted that the carabiners used on the equipment were not approved for flight operations.