Paraglider Survives Dramatic River Crash After Striking Power Line

Grand Forks, ND – A paraglider experienced a harrowing ordeal on July 8th when their electrically powered parachute collided with overhead power lines, sending them plunging into the Red River.Thankfully, the pilot emerged from the incident unharmed.

Video footage captured by an onlooker, Dusty Howlett, shows the moment of impact. The paramotor-operated parachute can be seen sparking as it makes contact with the power lines, followed by a loud bang.The aircraft and its pilot than fell into the river.

“Whoa, oh no!” Howlett can be heard exclaiming in the video as the paraglider crashes. Emergency crews were later observed retrieving the wreckage from the water.Howlett, who was walking with a friend at the time, stated on Facebook that the pilot appeared to be flying “way too low” and did not see the obstruction. “He landed in the river and was waving and talking to us,” Howlett reported, adding that water rescue personnel were on the scene. He also cautioned other recreational aircraft operators to “be careful and pay attention to your surroundings!”

According to Lt. Travis M.Benson of the Grand Forks Police Department, the pilot was flying at a low altitude along the Red River when the sun obscured his view of the power lines, leaving him insufficient time to react. “He attempted to drop beneath them but struck the wires instead,” Benson explained.

Despite the sudden descent into the river, the pilot managed to stay afloat due to the buoyancy of the craft’s wheels until assistance arrived. The Grand Forks Fire Department confirmed that a rescue boat was deployed, and crews found the paraglider uninjured. The identity of the pilot has not been released.

what specific weather conditions contributed to the reduced visibility of the power lines in the red River accident?

Paraglider Collision with Power Line Causes Red River Crash

Incident Overview: Red River Paragliding Accident

On July 14th, 2025, a paragliding accident occurred near the Red River, resulting in a crash and prompting investigations into the cause. Preliminary reports indicate the incident involved a collision with a high-voltage power line. the pilot sustained serious injuries and was transported to a regional hospital. This event underscores the inherent risks associated with paragliding and the critical importance of airspace awareness, safety protocols, and adherence to flight regulations. The incident is currently under examination by the relevant aviation authorities.

Factors Contributing to Paraglider-Power Line Collisions

Several factors can contribute to collisions between paragliders (also known as gleitschirme in German-speaking regions) and power lines.Understanding these is crucial for preventing future accidents.

Low visibility: Power lines can be challenging to see, especially in challenging weather conditions like haze, fog, or during low-light periods (dawn or dusk).

Lack of awareness: Pilots may not be fully aware of the location of power lines, particularly in unfamiliar flying areas. insufficient pre-flight planning and map reconnaissance are often contributing factors.

Turbulence & Wind Shear: Unexpected turbulence or wind shear near power line corridors can push a paraglider off course, increasing the risk of collision.

Proximity to Infrastructure: Flying too close to infrastructure, including power lines, transmission towers, and other obstacles, substantially elevates the risk.

Distraction: Pilot distraction, whether from equipment issues, scenic views, or other factors, can lead to a lapse in situational awareness.

Altitude: Flying at low altitudes increases the likelihood of encountering obstacles like power lines.

Power Line Safety for Paraglider Pilots: Best Practices

Mitigating the risk of power line collisions requires a proactive approach to safety. Hear are essential best practices for paragliding pilots:

1. Thorough Pre-Flight Planning:

Study detailed maps identifying power line locations. Utilize online resources like aviation charts and topographical maps.

Check NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) for any temporary hazards or restrictions in the flying area.

Assess weather conditions, including visibility, wind speed, and potential for turbulence.

Always fly at a safe altitude that provides sufficient clearance from obstacles, including power lines. A general rule of thumb is to maintain at least 500 feet above ground level (AGL) unless specifically authorized otherwise.

1. Visual scanning:

Constantly scan the airspace for obstacles, paying particular attention to areas where power lines are known to exist.

Use peripheral vision to detect movement and potential hazards.

1. Airspace Awareness:

Understand airspace classifications and restrictions in the flying area.

Be aware of controlled airspace and avoid unauthorized entry.

1. Emergency Procedures:

Practice emergency procedures, including glide approaches and landing techniques, to prepare for unexpected situations.

Know the location of suitable landing zones in case of an emergency.

1. Utilize Technology:

Consider using GPS devices with pre-loaded maps and obstacle warnings.

explore the use of variometers with altitude alerts.

Red river Area: Specific Considerations for Paragliding

The Red River area, while popular for paragliding, presents unique challenges:

Terrain: The varied terrain can create unpredictable wind patterns and turbulence.

Power Infrastructure: The region has a meaningful network of power lines supporting local energy needs.

River Valley Effects: River valleys can funnel wind, creating localized areas of increased wind speed and turbulence.

Seasonal Conditions: Weather conditions can change rapidly, impacting visibility and flight stability.

Pilots flying in the Red River area should be particularly diligent in thier pre-flight planning and risk assessment. Local flying clubs and experienced pilots can provide valuable insights into the specific hazards of the area.

Legal and Regulatory Aspects of paragliding Safety

Paragliding is regulated by aviation authorities in most countries. In the United States, the FAA (Federal Aviation Governance) oversees paragliding activities. Regulations typically cover:

Pilot Certification: Requirements for obtaining a paragliding license or rating.

Equipment Standards: Standards for paraglider design, manufacturing, and maintenance.

Airspace Restrictions: Rules governing where paragliding is permitted.

Reporting Requirements: Requirements for reporting accidents and incidents.

Pilots are responsible for understanding and complying with all applicable regulations. Failure to do so can result in penalties, including fines and suspension of flying privileges.

Recent Paragliding Accident Trends & Data

While comprehensive, real-time data is often difficult to obtain, analysis of past *par