Fethiye paragliding accident kills Turkish pilot and Chinese tourist

A fatal paragliding accident occurred on August 26 at Babadağ in Fethiye, Turkey, resulting in the deaths of a Turkish pilot and a Chinese tourist. The tandem flight, piloted by Ali Kıdıl and carrying passenger Xiangrui Meng, took off from a runway at approximately 1,900 meters altitude.

Shortly after takeoff, the paraglider reportedly lost control for unknown reasons and crashed into a steep, rocky area. Rescue teams, including UMKE and Gendarmerie Search and Rescue (JAK), conducted a difficult operation lasting nearly 10 hours to reach the site due to the rugged terrain. The victims' bodies were recovered via helicopter and transported to the Fethiye State Hospital morgue.

The Chinese Embassy in Turkey has confirmed the identity of the deceased tourist and is providing consular assistance to the family. Local authorities are investigating the exact cause of the crash.