For Immediate Release
The South African Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SAHPA) confirms that earlier today a foreign national crashed while flying a Swing Mirage 2 speedwing on Lion’s Head. The pilot was not licensed to operate a paraglider or speedwing in South Africa.
Speedwings fall within the broader paragliding classification, but they differ significantly from the equipment used in standard paragliding training or commercial tandem operations. These wings are smaller, faster, and designed for high-performance terrain-following flight. Their operating characteristics carry substantially higher risk and require advanced training and strict regulatory compliance.
Emergency services responded promptly, and SAHPA is liaising with the relevant authorities as part of the standard investigation process.
SAHPA reminds all visiting pilots that valid licensing and adherence to local regulations are mandatory. Unlicensed operations endanger not only the pilot but also other users of the mountain and the broader aviation community.
Further updates will be released as information becomes available.
ENDS