Return to the incident list: Incident List Fall During Launch PPG Type: Type of Injury:

Pilot Details

Age: 50 Weight: 152 Gender: Highest rating held at the time of the incident: Pilot experience level:

Gear Details

Wing Brand: Model: MacPara Muse III Size: Paramotor Frame: Miniplane 115cm prop with

Incident Details

January 20, 2017 Location of the incident: , Type of Incident:

I fly in Palm Bay, Florida at the “Compound” 95% of the time which requires forward launches about 93% of the time. Therefore, although I’ve been flying for approximately 8 years, I rarely do reverse launches. On this particular morning it was very windy, I’m guessing 12mph or more. Against my better judgment, I decided to attempt a reverse launch after seeing my more experienced friend take off twice. I pulled the wing up successfully. As I was making my turn to launch, I realized the wing was off to my left. I decided to abort and began turning to face the wing. As I was turning the wing/wind took control and body slammed me face down into the pavement. The “comfort” bar hit me in the rib, slightly knocking the wind out of me. I laid there for probably 30 to 45 seconds catching my breath. Once I stood up I saw blood streaming from the glove on my right hand. After a closer look it was obvious the prop cut the back of my hand. This required a trip to urgent care where they filled the cut with crazy glue and closed it with butterfly bandages. Although it bled badly, there was no damage to nerves, muscle, or bone. My Miniplane needed a new prop, netting , and few other minor parts. About $450 in damage. Hand has healed well. Ego still slightly bruised :)

Flight Window: Wind Speed: Type: Phase of Flight: Type of Injury: Collateral Damage: Analysis of the incident (additional input by the incident investigation team): Photos (if available):

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