SAFA Skysailor Magazine

45 SUMMER 2025 | December-January-February SKY SAILOR seemed stable and soarable and height above the tree canopy was maintained. About 20 minutes into the flight, PIC was between 5-10m above the tree canopy and just about to turn to head north back along the ridge when they hit a strong patch of sink; they weren’t able to turn away and hit the tree line. They were perched in a tree for a few seconds, then the tree let go and they fell to the forest floor, a drop of 10-15m, and landed on their back between upended rocks. Their harness back protector took all of the impact, but PIC was knocked unconscious for a very short period of time. Upon regaining consciousness, they assessed their condition, did not move and established communications with other pilots by radio and pin drop of their location. Once help arrived, they were able to free themselves and were helped up to be able to walk out before driving home. They attended a doctor’s surgery and have been diagnosed as possibly having stable fractured vertebrae. No damage to equipment was sustained. Scratching at low altitude carries inherent risk. Always be prepared for the unexpected and have a clear path to a safe landing. If a tree landing is unavoidable, choose a large canopy and attempt to land in the top, stalling the wing just before contact so as to drop into it. Try to grab a branch, as large as possible, and remain there. Secure yourself as soon as possible and await assistance. Do not get out of your harness and attempt to climb down. If you do fall and a back injury is a possibility, do not move and await assistance. That’s it for this issue. Fly safe over the coming holiday break.