As soon as it warms up, the first paragliding accidents are reported again, most recently in Tyrol, where a woman even had a fatal accident on Sunday. Many accidents happen through your own fault, a flight instructor explains.
It is spring in Tyrol. For many, it’s time to unpack the paraglider and take to the air. But you have to be careful, especially at the beginning of the season: “Spring is attractive for flying, but also more demanding,” explains the head of a Tyrolean flying school in the interview with “Krone”.
“In the winter, many people take a break, and in the spring the thermals are stronger.” Newcomers to paragliding can then become overwhelmed: “They still have the calm weather of winter in their minds,” the flight instructor urges caution.
An aspiring paragliding pilot must complete 40 flights before he or she receives his pilot’s license. According to the expert’s estimate, it takes about 100 solo flights to build up a given routine. The danger points always remain the same: during take-off and landing – unlike in the air – there are obstacles in the way. Such as the gondola of the Hopfgartner Salvenbahn, which – as reported – was the fate of a German woman (65) on Sunday.
“Perfect conditions” are individual for everyone
The flight instructor does not want to comment on the fatal case. According to him, accidents in sports are usually caused by their own fault. Overestimating yourself and the weather conditions often plays a major role. “What may be perfect conditions for a good pilot may not be ideal for a beginner.”
Wind strength sometimes depends on the time of day: “The thermals are strongest around noon,” says the expert, “so flights in the morning or late afternoon are easier.” Paragliding is then not dangerous. “Compared to how many people practice the sport, few accidents occur,” says the flight instructor.
Number of active pilots difficult to estimate
It is difficult to say how many people in Tyrol practice the sport. The Aeroclub Tirol had 627 members in 2023. However, not every paragliding athlete is a member of a corresponding club. Pilots from abroad who come to Tyrol to fly here are also not included in the statistics.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
