Lion’s Head, a popular launch site for aerial sports, became the scene of a fatal accident when a licensed pilot flying a cutting-edge parakite wing crashed yesterday (25 November).
The South African Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SAHPA) confirmed the incident and said the pilot was flying a Flare Moustache parakite.
This is a new, highly responsive hybrid wing designed for strong-wind coastal soaring and speed-focused flying.
Louis Stanford, SAHPA spokesperson said although considered part of the paragliding family in regulatory terms, parakites handle differently from the larger wings used in conventional paragliding training or tandem operations.
“SAHPA is cooperating fully with the Accident and Incident Investigation Division (AIID) of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident,” said Stanford.
He conveyed his condolences to the family, friends, and the wider community.
Stanford urged eyewitnesses who may have video, photographic, or other evidence relevant to the event to come forward.
“Reports can be made in accordance with Part 140.02.1 of the Civil Aviation Regulations, which requires anyone with knowledge of an aviation accident, incident, or safety hazard to notify the authority.”
He said all information submitted will be handled confidentially and used solely to improve aviation safety.
Stanford explained that the Civil Aviation Regulations protect individuals who make reports under the principles of a “Just Culture” – a safety philosophy that encourages open and honest reporting of mistakes or hazards without fear of punishment.
“The aim is to learn from accidents and prevent future occurrences, not to assign blame.”
