Accident: Gradient Aspen 2 Paraglider (No Registration), Monavullagh Mountain, Co. Waterford, 03 March 2012: Report 2013-005

SYNOPSIS

The Pilot had completed a two hour flight in the morning in good weather conditions. During another two hour flight that afternoon, the weather deteriorated with gusty winds and shower activity developing. On approach to land in difficult wind conditions, about 70% of the left hand side of the paraglider canopy collapsed and the Pilot spun into the ground from about 15 metres (m) height, sustaining serious injuries. He was airlifted by the Coastguard Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopter to hospital in Waterford.