UPDATE: Motorized Paraglider Makes Emergency Landing, Gets Caught on Cable and Telephone Lines, Pilot Uninjured.
On June 2, at approximately 7:40 p.m., a motorized paraglider experienced an emergency landing and became entangled in a set of cable and telephone lines.
Upon arrival, Vernon Fire Rescue discovered a person stuck about 20 feet off the ground on a fan-powered paraglider.
To carry out the rescue, firefighters utilized two fire engines. One of the engines was parked beneath the wires to decrease the distance between the wires and the ground. The pilot and his machine were then safely removed from the wires using the bucket of a ladder truck.
Deputy Chief Alan Hofsink of Vernon Fire Rescue stated,
"It appears the paraglider ran out of fuel, and the operator had to make an emergency landing. The patient was assessed on-site by paramedics, and no injuries were reported. We are proud of the quick and resourceful work of our crew in completing this rescue, and we are grateful that everyone remained unharmed."
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), BC Ambulance Service, and BC Hydro also responded to the scene. Fortunately, there were no power lines involved in the incident, ensuring the pilot's safety.
Original Story:
Just before 8 pm Friday, what appears to be a paramotor aircraft, was reported to be entangled in wires above busy Hwy 97 (AKA 32nd street thru Vernon) just north of 43rd Avenue.
A paramotor is a powered version of a paraglider, typically carrying one or two occupants.
There is no explanation for how the paramotor and pilot got tangled in the wires.
No information regarding injuries or if the pilot had any passengers.
At least one person was transported to Vernon Jubilee Hospital by ambulance.
Vernon Fire Rescue had the machine out of the wires and on the ground in less than half an hour.
Paramotors are not uncommon over Vernon, sometimes performing maneuvers that look unplanned from the ground. This video was captured over Vernon last summer.
To obtain a paramotoring license in Canada a pilot must pass both written and supervised tests.
These include:
- Basic paramotor training
- A student-pilot permit
- Submit a self-declared medical certificate.
The student permit is valid for 2 years. During that time at least 5 hours of flight time, including 30 takeoffs and landings must be performed under the supervision of a qualified instructor.
To obtain a full "parachute only" license the student must pass an 80-question written exam that tests knowledge of air law, aerodynamics, meteorology, and emergency procedures.
Tags: ParaGlider gets tangled in wires above Busy Vernon Street