Tragedy in the Skies: Fatal Mid-Air Collision Ahead of Paragliding World Cup

A Belgian paraglider, Feyarets, died in Himachal Pradesh after a mid-air collision with another paraglider, with his parachute failing to open post-crash. The incident occurred days before the Paragliding World Cup 2024 in Bir-Billing. Authorities are working towards enhancing safety measures to prevent future accidents.

A mid-air collision claimed the life of Belgian paraglider Feyarets in Himachal Pradesh's Bir-Billing after his parachute failed to deploy following the crash, officials announced on Wednesday.

This tragic accident occurred just four days before the Paragliding World Cup 2024 in Kangra district. Officials indicated that two paragliders collided while ten were flying simultaneously, resulting in the fatality of Feyarets, who was a seasoned free-flyer in his mid-60s.

Vinay Dhiman, Deputy Director of Tourism in Kangra, highlighted that accidents often occur when fliers enter high-risk zones without adequate knowledge of local wind conditions. Preventative measures, such as documenting the region's thermals, are being taken to increase safety. The area has previously witnessed similar tragedies, including another fatality last October.

(With inputs from agencies.)