SAFA Skysailor Magazine

46 SKY SAILOR July | August 2023 AIRS Safety Wrap-up PIC was now facing west toward launch, and heading towards and at the same altitude as powerlines behind the launch, directly above the fence and viewing shelter. At this stage, the wing was still not fully flying and slightly stalled. PIC pulled the brakes even deeper to prevent flying into the powerlines, and with more left brake to avoid landing on the shelter. The wing then fully stalled and was back far enough to avoid the fence line. PIC fell in a stall from approximately 10m agl, landing heavily on the base of their spine, facing up the hill towards the west. After impacting the ground, PIC fell backwards down the hill hitting their head with enough force for the helmet to come off. Other pilots came to assistance immediately, including a paramedic and GP. They stabilised the pilot, who lost consciousness for approx- imately 60 seconds. The pilot had trouble breathing and complained of no feeling in their legs. Their shoulders were lifted slightly at the scene to enable the pilot to breath. Paramedics arrived, cut the pilot from their harness, fitted a neck collar and spinal board then transported them by ambulance to a local school, to be airlifted by helicopter for treatment of spinal injuries – fractures to C3, C4, C7, T1 and L1. Pilot at present has paralysis from the chest down, with some movement in arms and shoulders. The glider the PIC was flying was tested for porosity, and line trim. Results showed line trim was acceptable. However, the porosity of the fabric was very poor, and with very high hours of use on the glider. When flying always remain aware of your altitude relative to terrain, especially in thermic conditions. Thermals can produce very strong sink or turbulent air that can affect your glider. Also be aware of any obstacles such as powerlines, roads or structures that would impact your ability to fly safely; never fly too close to these. In this case, a turbulent thermal caused the glider to collapse, and a resulting spin left the pilot flying toward powerlines. Always maintain a safe vertical and horizontal separation relative to other aircraft, ground or obstacles. The condition of the glider (i.e., porosity, line trim) affects the glider’s performance and flight and collapse recovery characteristics. A porous glider can be prone to stalling with its ability to re-inflate after a collapse diminished. Although the increased porosity may not have directly causes the accident, it could well have contributed to it collapsing prematurely in the encounter with the thermal, and with the pilot’s deep brake application, also slowing re-inflation. When purchasing a used paraglider always get it checked, paying particular attention to the porosity of the fabric, line trim, and damage to canopy, lines and risers. High hours of sun and sea-air exposure can degrade the wing’s material significantly. On that note, we’ll sign off for this issue. Fly safe.