• Source:JND

Bir Billing Paragliding Accident: A pilot was killed, and a tourist was injured as their paraglider crashed after takeoff in Bir Billing village in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh on Friday. The paraglider developed a technical malfunction, losing balance mid-air, and plummeting to the ground below the launch site. The accident occurred on Friday evening. 

In the aftermath of the fatal incident, authorities and operators suspended all paragliding activities on Saturday as a mark of respect for the death of the pilot.

Bir Billing Paragliding Shocker

The pilot, who has been identified as Mohan Singh, a resident of Barot in the Mandi district, was critically injured in the crash. Residents from nearby areas, along with rescue personnel, quickly reached the site and evacuated the pilot and the tourist to a hospital. 

However, Singh died off his injuries while being transported, whereas the tourist was administered first aid and was reported to be in stable condition. 

Police have filed a case and launched a probe to establish the precise circumstances that led to the accident. Investigators are looking into all the possibilities that led to the accident: technical malfunction, human error or adverse weather conditions. 

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District Tourism Development Officer, Kangra, has requested all relevant documents and details about the accident from the marshals and technical advisors deployed at the site.

"Further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation report," he added. 

The incident has once again brought the spotlight on safety standards at adventure sports hubs, highlighting concerns over equipment maintenance, pilot training and certification, and compliance with mandated safety procedures.

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Here's a look at some of the key paragliding safety tips:

- Never fly solo without proper training from a recognised paragliding school or a certified instructor.

- Obtain required pilot certifications recognised by local authorities, such as USHPA or IPPI ratings.

- Practise ground handling extensively to learn canopy control, inflation, and steering under supervision.

- Carry out a thorough pre-flight inspection of the wing, lines, harness, helmet, and reserve parachute before every flight.

- Use certified, high-quality equipment that meets safety standards and matches your experience level.

- Study weather forecasts carefully and avoid flying in strong winds, turbulence, storms, or poor visibility.

- Lastly, never fly under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that may impair judgment or reflexes.

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