Pilot dies in parakite accident at Lion’s Head
A licensed pilot died in an aviation accident at Lion’s Head, Cape Town, on Tuesday, November 25.
Image: SUPPLIED
The South African Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SAHPA) has confirmed that one of its licensed pilots died following an aviation accident on Lion’s Head on Tuesday, November 25.
SAHPA spokesman Louis Stanford said the pilot had been flying a Flare Moustache parakite, a relatively new hybrid wing known for its high responsiveness and suitability for strong coastal winds.
While classified within the paragliding family for regulatory purposes, parakites are flown quite differently from the larger wings used during standard training or tandem flights.
He said the organisation was deeply saddened by the incident.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the pilot’s family, friends, and the wider flying community at this very difficult time. SAHPA is fully cooperating with the Accident and Incident Investigation Division to help establish what led to this tragic event,” he said.
SAHPA has urged any pilots, hikers, or members of the public who may have witnessed the flight or who hold video or photographic material to come forward.
Such information can assist the Accident and Incident Investigation Division (AIID) of the South African Civil Aviation Authority in determining the cause of the accident, he said.
"Under Part 140.02.1 of the Civil Aviation Regulations, anyone with knowledge of an aviation accident, incident, or potential safety concern is required to notify the Authority," he said.
Mr Stanford stressed the importance of South Africa’s “Just Culture” approach to aviation safety.
“Reporting is not about blame. Most errors arise from human or systemic factors. The purpose of sharing information is to strengthen safety and prevent future accidents,” he said.
Those wishing to submit information can contact the SAHPA National Safety Officer at safety@sahpa.co.za and the Accident and Incident Investigation Division (AIID) at aiid@caa.co.za
The Atlantic Seaboard Community Forum social media page was flooded with condolences to the family and friends of the pilot.