What happened
On April 17, 2020, at approximately 15:00 LT, a paragliding accident occurred just below the takeoff site near Tribalj, Croatia. The pilot launched alone from the site, following a colleague who had already landed. Shortly after takeoff, while the aircraft was flying level and away from the slope, the canopy experienced a partial collapse.
This deformation caused the OZONE Addict M to rotate approximately 180 degrees, followed by a sudden descent and intense oscillations. The momentum of the collapse and subsequent oscillations caused the pilot to strike a small rock on the terrain at high speed. The impact was perpendicular to the slope and directed opposite to the original takeoff direction. The pilot sustained fatal injuries upon impact with the ground.
The investigation
The investigation examined the meteorological conditions, the pilot's experience, and the technical state of the paraglider. Investigators found that the terrain near Tribalj acts as a strong thermal generator, especially in spring, which can produce significant turbulence. The investigation also reviewed the flight path, noting that power lines near the takeoff site require pilots to fly straight away from the slope before turning to begin ridge soaring.
Technical inspections of the OZONE Addict M confirmed the aircraft was in airworthy condition prior to the accident, with any damage to the canopy and lines being consistent with the impact. The investigation also considered the pilot's flight history, noting that while the pilot was highly experienced, they had not flown regularly in recent years.
Findings
- Meteorological conditions were suitable for paragliding, but intense thermal activity created significant turbulence.
- The pilot held a valid paragliding license and possessed many years of experience, though there was a lack of recent flight continuity.
- The canopy collapsed due to an encounter with a strong air vortex (turbulence) shortly after takeoff.
- The pilot was unable to stabilize the flight or deploy the reserve parachute because the collapse occurred at too low an altitude.
- The canopy collapse at low altitude was the primary cause of the accident.
- Contributing factors included intense thermal activity and the pilot's lack of recent flying experience.
Safety action
AIN has issued a general safety recommendation (AIN04-SR-10/2020) advising paraglider pilots who have had a long break from flying to avoid challenging meteorological conditions until they have gradually regained the necessary proficiency levels.