SAFA Skysailor Magazine

61 WINTER 2026 | June-July-August SKY SAILOR downwash pulled the pilot into the air by their wing, then dumped them from 1-2m agl onto the beach. The helicopter flew towards another pilot some hundreds of metres away before vacating the area. The helicopter was identified and a report made to the ATSB. Pilots should maintain visual awareness of surrounds and possible threats to flight. Turbulence from other aircraft in close proximity should be considered as a significant risk to PIC’s safety and appropriate avoidance including landing should be considered as the safe option. #2204 – PG incident near Southside, Vic PIC was flying their paraglider at Southside Bells Beach (Vic) and commenced a sharp turn in light conditions to return to lift. This resulted in a stall on the left wing and the pilot encountered vegetation. Pilot was assisted to return to launch area. No damage to pilot or equipment. PIC should maintain sufficient speed to provide enough airspeed to prevent loss of lift on wing, particularly when executing a tight turn in low wind. That’s it for this issue folks. Fly safe.