A recent paragliding excursion near Hong Kong’s renowned Dragon’s Back hiking trail ended tragically on Monday afternoon when a 68-year-old man fell fatally shortly after attempting takeoff. The incident, which occurred near Shek O Peak, prompted a rapid emergency response and is now under investigation by local authorities.
Around 2:20 p.m. on December 9, 2025, police received an emergency report detailing that an individual had apparently lost control of his paraglider and plunged onto a hillside. Rescue personnel quickly mobilized, locating the unconscious victim surnamed Chu on a slope near the popular coastal area of Shek O. Due to the remote location, the Government Flying Service (GFS) deployed a helicopter to airlift the casualty to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital. Despite immediate medical attention, the man was pronounced dead at 3:47 p.m.
Fatal Incident During Takeoff
The deceased, identified only as Mr. Chu, was reportedly paragliding alone when the accident transpired. Initial police findings suggest the critical incident occurred during the crucial takeoff phase of the flight. While the exact reason for the loss of control remains undetermined, aviation experts emphasize that takeoff represents one of the most mechanically demanding and high-risk portions of a solo flight, requiring meticulous attention to equipment, wind conditions, and technique.
Dragon’s Back (Lau Fu Shan) is famous globally for its stunning coastal views and is a designated spot for extreme sports like paragliding, making the area a regional hub for the activity. However, the rugged terrain and variable sea breezes necessitate high levels of skill and adherence to safety protocols.
Authorities Investigate Crash Circumstances
The immediate focus of the investigation is to ascertain the precise circumstances leading to the man’s uncontrolled descent. Police are reviewing any potential eyewitness accounts and examining the paragliding equipment used by Mr. Chu.
Furthermore, medical authorities have scheduled a post-mortem examination. This procedure is crucial for formally establishing the cause of death, determining whether the fatal injuries were sustained from the impact or if an underlying medical condition contributed to the loss of control.
Safety Concerns for Extreme Sports
This tragic event underscores the inherent risks associated with extreme solo sports, even for experienced practitioners. While paragliding offers unique freedom, participants are strongly advised to adhere to stringent safety checks, monitor weather forecasts rigorously, and ensure all equipment is professionally maintained and inspected.
For those engaging in aviation sports in Hong Kong’s frequently unpredictable conditions, official guidelines from the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department and local paragliding associations stress the importance of never pushing operational limits and flying only within certification boundaries. As the investigation continues, the findings may influence future safety advisories for the paragliding community operating in the region. The outcome of the police inquiry and post-mortem will provide clarity on this unfortunate loss within the adventure sports community.