A tandem paragliding pilot crashed right after take-off while flying a tourist and died at the popular Bir Billing adventure sports site in Himachal Pradesh, on Friday.
Police identified the pilot as Mohan Singh, a resident of Barot, which is around 30 kilometres away from the site.
Pratap Singh, Mohan's colleague, said that he was flying tandem with a woman tourist when the crash occurred. The tourist survived the crash.
According to officials of the Bir Billing Paragliding association, the paraglider developed a technical malfunction shortly after take off and lost balance mid-air, and crashed near the road below the launch site.
The pilot died, and the tourist sustained injuries.
They were rushed to the hospital by residents and rescue teams. Singh died, succumbing to his injuries on the way.
Authorities are examining whether the incident was caused by a technical fault, human error, or weather-related factors.
Deputy commissioner Hemraj Bairwa said multiple versions of the incident have emerged, and the Baijnath SDM is conducting an inquiry. Officials have stressed the need for strict adherence to SOPs.
Authorities also stressed proper screening of passengers for fitness, weight limits, and medical conditions.
Pratap Singh said that about 400 paragliders operate in Bir Billing. However, their earnings remain uncertain and seasonal. Pilots earn around Rs 800 to Rs 1000 per flight. Tourists are charged around Rs 2,500 to Rs 3000 per flight.
Pilots manage three to four flights a day during peak seasons, while during lean periods, they may only get one a day or even two a day.
The incidents have raised concerns about safety arrangements at adventure sports destinations.
