What happened
On 2 June 2020, a pilot was operating a Condor paramotor trike, equipped with an Ozone Mag Max 2 41 wing, registered as D-MJBE. The flight took off from a field in Didam, the Netherlands, as part of a recreational flight alongside another experienced pilot. This was the pilot's first flight since obtaining their license just a few days prior.
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft encountered a sudden and severe change in weather conditions. A convergence line, known as a 'vore', was passing over the region, bringing a sharp increase in wind and turbulence. The pilot lost control of the aircraft due to these atmospheric shifts, leading to a high-speed spiral flight. The resulting G-forces were likely high enough to cause the pilot to lose consciousness, leading to a crash that destroyed the aircraft and resulted in the fatal injury of the pilot.
The investigation
The Dutch Safety Board examined the meteorological conditions and the pilot's preparation. While the pilot had checked various weather applications before takeoff, the specific timing of the passing convergence line was not identified. The investigation also scrutinized the suitability of the wing used. Although the wing was classified as a B-type wing—generally accessible to various skill levels—the manufacturer's manual noted it was intended for competent pilots and not specifically for beginners. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the regulatory landscape, noting that at the time of the accident, there was a lack of specific aviation legislation governing paramotor trikes in the Netherlands.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the sudden worsening of weather conditions, specifically the arrival of a convergence line that triggered intense turbulence.
- The pilot was unable to recover from the resulting spiral flight, likely due to loss of consciousness from high G-forces.
- There was a lack of awareness regarding the immediate weather change despite the use of weather apps.
- The suitability of the wing for a newly licensed pilot was uncertain, as the manufacturer's intended use for the wing differed from its technical classification.
Safety action
The investigation highlighted the need for a more professional approach to paramotor trike operations, similar to other forms of recreational aviation. The Dutch Safety Board issued recommendations to the Royal Netherlands Aeronautical Association (KNVvL) to develop uniform training courses focusing on both theory and practice, and to ensure licensed pilots prioritize thorough flight preparation. Additionally, a recommendation was made to the Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management to implement necessary regulations for paramotor trike operations as soon as possible.