Paramotor pilot worried about flying too close to other fliers

A paramotor pilot involved in a fatal 2021 crash has shared how a past collision affected her approach to flying near other pilots. The inquiry in Tain, Scotland, revealed how previous accidents influenced safety practices and led to a strict policy of flying alone to avoid crowded airspace.

A paramotor pilot involved in a fatal accident has revealed during a formal inquiry that a previous collision significantly influenced her attitude toward flying close to other pilots. The testimony was delivered at a fatal accident inquiry (FAI) held in Tain, Scotland.

Details of the 2021 Highland Crash

In September 2021, Sacha Dench, an experienced paramotor pilot and climate campaigner, suffered serious injuries while Devon-based cameraman Dan Burton lost his life when their paramotors collided near Lochinver in the Scottish Highlands. The accident occurred as part of a round-Britain journey intended to promote awareness of climate change ahead of the COP26 summit in Glasgow.

Impact of Previous Accidents on Flight Approach

Dench explained that a prior paragliding incident in Wales had a lasting effect on her flying practices. During that incident, another pilot caught his knee in her wing while landing, resulting in both pilots landing together. Dench described being dragged along the ground and sustaining a broken arm without initially realizing the severity of her injuries. She said this experience led her to adopt a strict personal policy of flying alone whenever possible and avoiding crowded airspace, stating that it made her "very paranoid about no-one flying close to me."

Collaboration with Dan Burton

Despite her previous accident, Dench continued to fly alongside Dan Burton, with whom she had collaborated since 2012 on conservation-focused projects. Their teamwork had earned her the nickname "human swan." At the inquiry, Victoria Andrews from the charity Conservation Without Borders questioned why Dench continued flying with Burton despite her earlier trauma. Dench responded that she trusted him and noted their extensive experience flying together, with Burton being well aware of her piloting style.

Safety Measures and Flight Protocols

During questioning, Dench detailed safety guidelines for paramotor flights. She recommended maintaining a minimum distance of 50 metres between pilots and highlighted the risks of flying directly in front of or behind another pilot, citing turbulence and limited visibility as hazards. She emphasized that it was the responsibility of the trailing pilot to maintain a safe position.

Regarding aerial filming, Dench explained that Burton would occasionally position himself above or behind her to capture footage, but only under strict communication procedures. She clarified, "The only time would be if we were in communication and he was specifically telling me where to go. Otherwise he would not be anywhere near me."

Communication Systems Used During Flights

The inquiry examined the communication equipment employed by Dench and Burton. They used headsets with an automatic "open channel" that connected when the pilots were within approximately 800 metres (2,624 feet) of each other. Dench confirmed that an audible alert indicated when communication was re-established after either pilot went out of range. She acknowledged that if communication was inactive, each pilot could maneuver independently without notifying the other.

Aircraft Monitoring and Injury Effects

Dench was questioned regarding instrumentation for monitoring fuel levels and altitude. She admitted difficulty recalling specific details due to the severity of her head injuries sustained in the 2021 crash, stating, "It was four-and-a-half years ago and I hit my head pretty hard."

Ongoing Inquiry

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision continues. Dench's testimony provides important insights into the safety practices, communication protocols, and psychological impact that previous accidents have on paramotor pilots.

Sources:

• ‘Human Swan’ paramotor flyer tells FAI: I was paranoid about other pilots - The Standard
• ‘Human Swan’ paramotor flyer tells FAI: I was paranoid about other pilots - The Standard (duplicate region)
• Paramotorist recalls moment her wing was ‘shredded’ in fatal crash - The Irish News
• Paramotor pilot 'paranoid' about flying too close other fliers