Pilot killed in paragliding accident in Himachal’s Bir Billing

An experienced pilot died when his two-person paraglider crashed on the road below the launch site in Kangra district due to a technical fault shortly after take-off, officials said.

The incident took place at the internationally renowned Bir Billing paragliding range.

The accident occurred on the evening of Friday, December 26, when a two-person paraglider was taking off from the Billing launch point.

According to a Billing Paragliding Association officials, the paraglider suffered a technical malfunction shortly after take-off, lost balance in the air and crashed near the road below the launch site. While the pilot lost his life, the tourist accompanying him was injured.

The pilot, identified as Mohan Singh, a resident of Barot in Mandi district, was seriously injured in the accident.

Local people and rescue teams arrived at the scene and took both the pilot and the tourist to the hospital.

However, while Singh died due to the injuries he received on the way to the hospital, it was reported that the tourist was out of danger after the first aid.

While an investigation has been launched into the incident, an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Authorities are investigating whether the incident was caused by a technical malfunction, human error or weather conditions.

The incident has again raised serious concerns about safety regulations at adventure sports destinations, particularly regular equipment checks, pilot certification and strict adherence to safety protocols.

District Tourism Development Officer Kangra Vinay Kumar said that all documents and information regarding the accident have been sought from police officers and technical consultants on duty in the area.

“Further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation report,” he said.