Last week, a paraglider in Gansu province, China, experienced an unexpected and perilous flight, soaring to heights of nearly 28,200 feet while testing his equipment. An investigation by local authorities led to a six-month suspension of the pilot’s privileges, raising alarms about safety protocols in the sport.
Paraglider's Accidental Ascent to Climb Near-Record Heights in China
Paraglider's Accidental Ascent to Climb Near-Record Heights in China
A paraglider inadvertently reaches terrifying altitudes, sparking safety concerns and a six-month ban.
On Saturday morning, 55-year-old Peng Yujiang set out to conduct ground handling training at a height of about 10,000 feet. However, strong winds lifted him unexpectedly, propelling him to nearly 8,600 meters above sea level in the Qilian mountain range. Video footage captured his ordeal, which showed his face and body enveloped in frostbite as he struggled with extreme cold and low oxygen levels during the flight.
"I felt the lack of oxygen. My hands were frozen outside. I kept trying to talk on the radio," he recounted in a video statement following his return. This incident has stirred debate over paraglider safety protocols, especially since such extreme elevations are often reserved for professional aviation and mountaineering endeavors.
Authorities have responded to this alarming situation by banning Mr. Peng from paragliding for half a year, underscoring the importance of following established safety measures in the sport to prevent further incidents.
"I felt the lack of oxygen. My hands were frozen outside. I kept trying to talk on the radio," he recounted in a video statement following his return. This incident has stirred debate over paraglider safety protocols, especially since such extreme elevations are often reserved for professional aviation and mountaineering endeavors.
Authorities have responded to this alarming situation by banning Mr. Peng from paragliding for half a year, underscoring the importance of following established safety measures in the sport to prevent further incidents.
