The Foreign Office has called for a safety review of adventure tourism after a British paraglider died in Spain. The incident, which occurred in the province of Alicante, has reignited concerns over regulation in the growing sector.
According to Spanish authorities, the 45 year old man sustained fatal injuries during a tandem flight on Sunday. Emergency services were alerted at approximately 3pm local time. The pilot, who held a valid license, lost control under conditions described as “moderate wind” by local meteorological sources. An investigation has been opened by the Guardia Civil.
The Foreign Office confirmed it is providing consular support to the family. In a statement, a spokesperson said: “We are in touch with Spanish authorities and are offering assistance. This tragic event underscores the need for robust safety standards in adventure tourism.” The department has compiled data on adventure sports fatalities for an internal review, due to be presented to ministers next month.
Adventure tourism in Spain has expanded rapidly. The Spanish Association of Adventure Tourism reports a 22% increase in bookings over the past three years. Paragliding alone attracts an estimated 15,000 British tourists annually. Yet regulation remains fragmented. While commercial operators must adhere to European safety directives, oversight of individual pilots and equipment maintenance varies by region. Alicante, a popular destination for air sports, has seen three fatalities in the last five years.
Industry experts have long called for harmonised rules. “The lack of a unified framework is a risk,” said Dr. Helena Torres, a researcher in sports safety at the University of Barcelona. “Operators may meet minimal standards, but self-regulation can lead to gaps.” The British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association echoed this, urging participants to verify operator credentials and insurance.
The Foreign Office review is expected to consider mandatory risk disclosure, equipment checks, and emergency response plans. It will also examine whether travel insurance should be compulsory for high risk activities. Currently, many policies exclude parasailing or limit cover for negligence.
Broader implications for the industry are significant. Spain’s tourism board, which promotes adventure activities as part of its “Spain in Paradise” campaign, has declined to comment. However, a source within the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism confirmed that officials are watching the Foreign Office review closely. “We want to ensure safety without stifling a sector that supports many local businesses,” the source said.
The deceased has been named locally as Simon Clarke, a father of two from Cheshire. Friends described him as an experienced pilot. His death comes just weeks after a British tourist died in a bungee jumping accident in Mallorca. That incident also prompted calls for stricter oversight.
Analysis of Foreign Office consular assistance data shows that deaths and serious injuries linked to adventure tourism have increased by 18% since 2019. The department has urged travellers to research activities thoroughly, check safety records, and ensure they have adequate insurance.
A Foreign Office minister is expected to make a full statement to Parliament in the coming days. The review’s recommendations are anticipated by the end of this year. Until then, the department advises caution.
This story is developing. Further details will be reported as they emerge.
