A search operation is currently ongoing for a hang glider who went missing in a popular tourist area, causing concern among authorities. The individual, a 59-year-old experienced hang glider pilot from the local region, disappeared after losing altitude during a flight off the New South Wales Mid North Coast in Australia. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Lindeman’s Point, located approximately 129km south of Port Macquarie near Forster.
Another glider who took off after the missing pilot witnessed the incident and promptly reported the disappearance around 4 pm the previous day. Fortunately, this second glider managed to land safely after crashing into the water below.
The search location near Booti Booti National Park, known for its stunning beaches and hiking trails, has attracted attention due to the unfolding events. Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry launched a search mission involving rescue vessel Forster 30 and a team of volunteers. The search covered an extensive area from Seven Mile Beach to Elizabeth Beach and continued until late evening, with efforts resuming the following day.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade noted that adverse weather conditions, including strong winds, presented challenges for the search team. Despite spending over six hours scouring the waters south of Forster, the crew had to suspend operations for the day around 3 pm local time.
Inspector Greenslade provided an update stating that the crew had returned to base due to deteriorating conditions offshore. However, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers remain on standby to support further search efforts if requested by the NSW Police Marine Area Command.
Inspector David Coyle from Manning Great Lakes Police District described the incident as unexpected, emphasizing the missing pilot’s expertise in hang gliding. Graeme Cran, a paraglider with Mid North Coast Flyers, highlighted the potential dangers of aviation sports, noting the importance of proper training and preparedness for emergency situations.
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