Bir Billing Paragliding Crash: Pilot Killed, Tourist Injured After Mid-Air Malfunction in Himachal

An experienced paraglider lost his life and a tourist was injured after a tandem paragliding crash at the world-famous Bir Billing site in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district.

The accident occurred shortly after take-off, triggering a temporary suspension of all paragliding activities at the destination.

Crash shortly after take-off at Billing

The incident took place on Friday evening when a tandem paraglider launched from the Billing take-off point. Officials said the glider encountered a technical malfunction soon after becoming airborne, lost balance mid-air and crashed near the road below the launch area.

According to the Bir Billing Paragliding Association, the pilot died in the crash, while the accompanying tourist sustained injuries.

Pilot identified, rescue efforts rushed

The deceased pilot was identified as Mohan Singh, a resident of Barot in Mandi district. He suffered critical injuries in the fall. Local residents, along with rescue teams, rushed to the spot and transported both the pilot and the tourist to a nearby hospital.

However, Singh succumbed to his injuries while being taken for medical treatment. Officials said the tourist was given first aid and is out of danger.

Case registered, probe underway

A case has been registered and an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident. Authorities are examining whether the crash was due to a technical fault, human error or weather-related factors.

The tragic incident has also led operators and authorities to suspend paragliding activities for a day as a mark of respect.

Safety concerns flagged at adventure sites

The crash has once again brought safety arrangements at adventure tourism destinations under scrutiny, particularly the need for regular equipment checks, pilot certification and strict compliance with safety protocols.

District Tourism Development Officer of Kangra, Vinay Kumar, said that all relevant documents and details related to the incident have been sought from marshals and technical advisors deployed at the site.

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