A search is currently ongoing for a hang glider who has gone missing at a well-known tourist destination, leaving authorities puzzled. The individual, a 59-year-old experienced hang glider pilot, disappeared yesterday afternoon while gliding off the New South Wales Mid North Coast in Australia, near Lindeman’s Point. Another glider who launched shortly after the missing pilot witnessed the incident and reported it around 4pm. Fortunately, the second glider landed safely after crashing into the water.
The search area includes the Booti Booti National Park, a picturesque location known for its stunning beaches and hiking trails. Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry has been actively involved in the search efforts, deploying rescue vessel Forster 30 along with volunteers to comb the area from Seven Mile Beach to Elizabeth Beach.
Despite facing challenges due to strong winds, the search team has been dedicated to locating the missing hang glider. Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry had to suspend operations for the day after spending over six hours searching the waters south of Forster. They are prepared to resume the search if requested by the NSW Police Marine Area Command.
Inspector David Coyle of Manning Great Lakes Police District described the incident as unexpected, emphasizing the missing pilot’s expertise in hang gliding. Graeme Cran, a paraglider from Mid North Coast Flyers, highlighted the risks associated with aviation sports and emphasized the importance of training for emergencies.
The search for the missing hang glider continues, with efforts focused on locating the experienced pilot who vanished without a trace during what was supposed to be a routine gliding session.