Parasailing Is Technically Not An Aviation Activity, But The NTSB Issued A Report Of Its Special Investigation Of Recreational Parasailing

Skydiving and paragliding are recognized as aviation sports. They are regulated by the FAA, and industry associations also add safety to these operations. On the other hand, parasailing is a completely different recreational activity. The special NTSB investigation of this activity seems to indicate some real problems.

Parasailing, also known as parascending or parakiting, is a recreational kiting activity where a person is towed behind a vehicle (usually a boat) while attached to a specially designed canopy wing that reminds one of a parachute, known as a parasail wing. It’s a close cousin to skydiving and paragliding, but it is not the same. The NTSB report is detailed, and the following is a summary of what the NTSB found.

The NTSB special investigation report examines parasailing accidents in the United States and its territories, and identifies several areas where the risk associated with parasailing may be mitigated. Each year, an estimated 3 to 5 million people in the United States participate in parasailing; however, no federal regulations or guidelines establish specific training or certification for parasailing operators. There is no requirement for inspection of the parasailing equipment, and no requirement to suspend operations during inclement or unsuitable weather conditions.

The NTSB report says that passengers seeking to enjoy the thrill, adventure, and panoramic views of parasailing risk becoming accident victims. Due to the nature of parasailing, accidents usually result in either serious injury or death.

This investigation report strives to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities associated with parasailing through recommendations that will improve safety for parasailing passengers and operators. The report also examines operations, equipment, and the various dynamic forces that affect parasailing.

As a result of this investigation, the National Transportation Safety Board made new safety recommendations to the United States Coast Guard, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.

While parasailing clearly does not fall into the area of AeroSports, we felt it important that our readers understand the difference between this activity and the activities of skydiving and paragliding.

(Image from the NTSB report)

FMI: www.ntsb.gov/safety/safety-studies/Pages/SIR1402.aspx