Let’s get straight to the point: Yes, people have died while paragliding. And if you’re thinking of trying it, it’s only natural to ask: “What are the actual odds something could go wrong?”
It’s not a fun question—but it’s an important one. So let’s take an honest look at the numbers, the context behind them, and what they really mean for anyone considering a flight.
Short Answer
The estimated probability of dying from paragliding is about 1 in 11,000 to 15,000 flights, but this mostly applies to solo pilots, not tandem passengers. Tandem paragliding with a certified instructor is very safe, with extremely low fatality rates and strong safety practices. While the risk is real, it’s manageable—and much lower when flying responsibly.
Tip: What is paragliding?
The short number: 1 in 11,000 to 15,000
According to various global safety studies and aviation organizations, the fatality rate in paragliding is estimated to be about 1 in 11,000 to 15,000 flights.
That might sound high—especially compared to commercial aviation or tandem skydiving. But before you panic, let’s break that number down.
Who do those numbers include?
That fatality estimate covers all types of paragliding—from complete beginners on their first tandem flight, all the way to solo pilots doing advanced tricks in changing mountain weather. And here’s the key point: The majority of serious accidents involve experienced solo pilots, not beginners.
Most fatal incidents are linked to:
- Aggressive or risky maneuvers
- Flying in turbulent or unpredictable weather
- Poor decision-making or overconfidence
- Lack of recent practice or training
In contrast, tandem flights with certified instructors have an extremely low risk. They happen in controlled conditions, with well-maintained gear and professional pilots making the decisions.
Tip: Is paragliding a high risk sport?
Tandem flying vs. solo flying
If you’re a first-time passenger, the statistics look a lot better.
Tandem flights are:
- Planned around ideal weather
- Managed by trained, certified professionals
- Backed by routine safety checks and gear inspections
- Protected by passenger harnesses and sometimes even reserve chutes
There are very few recorded fatalities in tandem paragliding worldwide—and millions of people fly safely every year.
So while general paragliding stats sound scary, they don’t accurately reflect the safety level of a one-time tandem flight.
Tip: Is paragliding safer than skydiving?
How does paragliding compare to other risks?
Here’s some perspective:
Activity | Estimated Fatality Risk |
| Paragliding (general) | 1 in 11,000–15,000 |
| Skydiving (tandem) | 1 in 500,000 |
| Motorcycle riding | Higher than paragliding |
| Rock climbing | Similar risk |
| Driving a car daily | Riskier over the long term |
So while paragliding isn’t risk-free, it’s also not the most dangerous thing you can do—especially if you’re flying with professionals.
Tip: Paragliding VS skydiving compared
Can the risk be reduced?
Absolutely. Here’s how:
- Fly tandem with a certified school or instructor
- Never fly in poor weather or questionable conditions
- Don’t rush into solo flying without proper training
- Respect the limits of your skill and your equipment
- Choose reputable operators with solid safety records
In many ways, the risk of paragliding is something you can actively manage through good choices.
Tip: Why not to do paragliding?
Why does it still feel scary?
It’s not just about numbers—it’s about perception. Flying without a cockpit, motor, or hard structure feels exposed. The idea of being suspended in the air by fabric and strings can be mentally intense—even if it’s statistically safe.
That fear is real and valid, but it doesn’t always match the actual level of danger, especially in tandem settings.
Tip: How scary is paragliding?
Final thoughts: real numbers, real peace of mind
Yes, there’s a chance something could go wrong while paragliding. But so is there when you cross the street, drive to work, or hike in the mountains.
What matters most is:
- How you fly
- Who you fly with
- How prepared you are
Paragliding isn’t without risk, but when done properly, it’s far safer than people assume—and far more rewarding than fear would have you believe.