The following events took place on Thursday 14th April 2011 in Morocco at Legzira Bowl, which is located about 2 hours' drive south of Agadir. Legzira is a popular site with paraglider pilots offering majestic views from the take off area situated around 300 metres above sea level. Legzira Bowl is a lower hill which is useful when conditions at Legzira are unsuitable.
The pilot is a local area resident who was testing a wing belonging to a visiting pilot. The wind had recently picked up but was not unduly strong. Upon launch the glider climbed rapidly but after a few moments the wing experienced a full frontal collapse. This is dangerous when it happens so near to the ground.
The glider spun 180 degrees & surged towards the ground - the pilot recovered control narrowly avoiding a high speed ground impact. The glider then settled over a farm house, now heading towards power lines. The pilot turned left, missed the house & landed unscathed.
Skilled airmanship under extreme circumstances ensured that we could all enjoy the evening together, thankful that no injuries were sustained. The collapse was probably caused by a thermal air mass. The speed at which this incident unfolded is chilling.
