What happened
On the afternoon of Saturday, 23 May 2026, a pilot departed from a launch site adjacent to The Coves Airfield in Hartbeespoort Dam for a private flight. The aircraft was a Dudek Warp 3 18 motor-powered paraglider. After two unsuccessful take-off attempts due to handling difficulties, the pilot successfully launched on the third try under favorable weather conditions with north-north-east winds gusting at 8 knots.
Flight tracking data indicated the aircraft flew east along Regional Road 512 (R512) before turning left towards Hartbeespoort Dam. During a two-minute period, the recorded path showed a descent from approximately 345 feet above ground level to 203 feet, with speed reducing from about 63 km/h to 43 km/h. At approximately 1354Z, during a sharp 90-degree left turn, the paraglider rapidly lost height and airspeed. It impacted the ground on the left side of the R512 near Harties Dam View Resort. The pilot was declared fatally injured at the scene by emergency medical services.
The investigation — what SACAA AIID examined and established
The South African Civil Aviation Authority Accident and Incident Investigations Division (SACAA AIID) conducted the inquiry following a request from the South African Hang-Gliding and Paragliding Association. Investigators reviewed flight recorder data, wreckage condition, and witness statements. The pilot held a valid National Pilot Licence and Class 4 medical certificate, with over 1,900 total flying hours, including significant experience on powered paragliders.
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the wing trim and riser trim were found in the fully open position for high-speed configuration. No structural damage or in-flight failure was identified in the accessible riser components or carabiners. The reserve parachute was found undeployed in its bag, with one safety pin displaced and the deployment handle loose.
Findings
The investigation established that the pilot was flying with the maximum speed trimmer setting and speed bar engaged. A key finding was that the left wing collapsed shortly after the pilot descended and reduced paramotor power. The manufacturer’s guidance notes that operating with trims fully open at low altitude or low speed without power significantly reduces the stall margin and increases the risk of a frontal collapse or stall, particularly if brake input is not adjusted proportionally to the trim setting.
Safety action
No specific safety recommendations were issued in this preliminary report. The investigation remains ongoing, with the wing sent to a manufacturer-approved facility for further examination.