A British national has died in a paragliding accident in southern Spain, prompting the Foreign Office to launch a review of safety protocols for British citizens undertaking adventure sports abroad. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday near the coastal town of Almuñécar in Granada province, is the third such fatality involving a UK citizen in Spain this year.
The victim, a 45-year-old man from Manchester, was reportedly an experienced paraglider. Emergency services were alerted after he failed to land at the expected time. His body was recovered from a ravine by a helicopter rescue team. The Spanish Civil Guard has opened an investigation, though early reports suggest equipment failure may have been a factor.
The Foreign Office confirmed that it is providing consular assistance to the family. In a statement, a spokesperson said: “We are in touch with the Spanish authorities and are reviewing the circumstances of this tragic event. The safety of British nationals abroad is our utmost priority. We will consider whether additional guidance or regulatory changes are needed for adventure activities overseas.”
The review will examine current Foreign Office travel advice for high-risk sports, including paragliding, hang-gliding, and skydiving. It will also assess whether tour operators and activity providers in popular destinations meet adequate safety standards. The department is expected to consult with the British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (BHPA) and the Adventure Travel Trade Association.
Data from the Foreign Office shows that adventure sports accidents account for a small but growing number of consular cases. In 2023, there were 112 reported incidents involving British citizens engaged in adventure activities abroad, up from 98 in 2022. Paragliding incidents specifically have risen by 15% over the same period.
Spain remains the most popular destination for British adventure tourists, with an estimated 200,000 UK citizens taking part in activities such as paragliding, canyoning, and white-water rafting annually. While fatal accidents are rare, the cumulative risk has prompted calls for tighter regulation.
Industry experts have welcomed the review. John Miller, a former BHPA safety officer, said: “The UK has robust safety standards for paragliding at home, but once you go abroad you are reliant on local regulations which can vary enormously. A Foreign Office review could help bridge that gap and ensure British travellers are better informed about the risks.”
However, some in the adventure tourism sector have expressed concern that additional regulation could stifle the industry. “Paragliding is an inherently risky sport, but that is part of its appeal,” said Carlos Ruiz, a paragliding instructor based in Andalusia. “Most operators here follow strict safety protocols, but accidents can still happen. Adding layers of bureaucracy may not prevent them.”
The Foreign Office review is expected to report its findings within three months. Recommendations could include enhanced pre-travel advice, a register of accredited operators, and a centralised incident-reporting system. Any changes to travel advice are likely to be implemented ahead of the summer season.
The British embassy in Madrid has urged any UK nationals planning adventure activities in Spain to check the Foreign Office website for the latest guidance. “We advise all travellers to ensure they have adequate travel insurance that covers high-risk sports,” the spokesperson added. “And to always follow the instructions of qualified instructors.”
The victim’s name has not been released pending formal identification and notification of next of kin.
