What happened
On April 11, 2015, at approximately 13:45 UTC, a Spin 180E paramotor, registration OK-NGO 32, was involved in a fatal accident near the Pilské reservoir, northwest of Žďár nad Sázavou. The pilot had taken off from a nearby field and was flying at an altitude of approximately 40 to 50 meters over a recreational area.
While flying over a group of bystanders near a cable car station, the pilot engaged in non-verbal communication with the people on the ground. Witnesses observed the pilot performing a right-hand turn. During the transition from a right turn to a left turn, witnesses heard a sudden increase in engine power. This surge in thrust, combined with the pilot's control inputs, led to a loss of control. The left side of the wing stalled, causing the aircraft to enter a left-hand negative turn and a rapid rotation around its vertical axis. The pilot was unable to recover the wing configuration due to the low altitude, resulting in a high-impact crash into the terrain. The pilot sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft, the pilot's qualifications, and the meteorological conditions. The investigation established that the Spin 180E was in airworthy condition with a valid technical certificate, and the pilot held a valid license and medical certificate. Meteorological reports confirmed that weather conditions were suitable for flight, with no significant weather events occurring at the time of the accident.
Technical inspections of the aircraft revealed significant structural damage, including a deformed frame, a broken fuel tank neck, and severed harness straps. However, no mechanical or technical failures were found in the engine, propeller, or the wing itself. The investigation also confirmed that the aircraft was not exceeding its maximum takeoff weight.