larnaca paramotor — larnaca paramotor — The fatal crash of a paramotor glider in Kiti, Larnaca district, has prompted investigations by police and the Cyprus Air Accident and Incident Investigation Board. The crash, which occurred on Thursday morning, claimed the life of 31-year-old Antonis Kourras from Nicosia.
The incident unfolded at a beach known as “Parasolia,” where Kourras’s glider struck a rock, resulting in instant death. A friend flying nearby witnessed the event and reported to authorities that Kourras appeared to lose altitude, suggesting a malfunction in the parachute.
Larnaca paramotor: Ongoing Investigations
Both the police and the investigation board are delving into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The board has secured the paramotor equipment to assess possible technical defects and adverse wind conditions. Antonis Antoniou, president of the board, indicated that while a preliminary inspection of the glider had been performed, further testing is necessary to determine the cause.
“There could be an issue with the paraglider, there could have been a problem with the wind in that area, or there could be another factor we are trying to identify,” Antoniou explained. The investigation is expected to take several weeks and will involve interviews with witnesses and detailed checks on the glider’s components.
Safety and Regulations
Authorities are also investigating the provenance of the gliders used by Kourras and his friend. Initial findings suggest they owned the equipment, but verification of its legal importation is underway. Antoniou highlighted the importance of adherence to safety regulations, noting that the sport carries inherent risks, particularly due to its dependence on wind conditions.
“If something goes wrong, an accident can happen easily,” he stated, emphasising the need for pilots to follow legislation regarding designated flying zones, undertake proper training, inspect their gear, and respect safe flying times.
Medical Findings
A post-mortem examination conducted at Nicosia General Hospital confirmed that Kourras succumbed to multiple injuries affecting his body and vital organs. This tragic event marks the third paramotor accident in Cyprus over the past five years, with previous incidents in 2020 and 2021 resulting in injuries to pilots.
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