A British national is dead after a paragliding accident in southern Spain, sources confirm. The incident, which occurred near the popular Costa del Sol resort area, has prompted an urgent travel warning from the Foreign Office. The victim, whose name has not been released pending family notification, was an experienced paraglider, according to local authorities.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, but initial reports suggest a sudden weather change may have been a factor. The Foreign Office statement, issued late this evening, advises British tourists to exercise extreme caution when engaging in adventure sports abroad, noting that safety standards can vary significantly from the UK. This is not the first such tragedy: last year, three British nationals died in paragliding accidents in Spain and Greece.
A source within the British embassy in Madrid told this reporter that they are providing consular assistance to the family. The warning comes as the Spanish Civil Guard continues its probe, with officials saying they are examining the paraglider's equipment and maintenance records. The dead man's family has asked for privacy.
The Foreign Office guidance, updated on its website, says: 'If you are planning to take part in adventure sports, check the safety record of the provider and ensure appropriate insurance coverage.' Critics argue that such warnings are too little, too late. Safety campaigners have long called for a centralised database of accidents involving British tourists abroad.
One campaigner, who asked not to be named, said: 'Every summer, we see the same headlines. The Foreign Office issues warnings, but nothing changes. How many more need to die?
' The Spanish authorities have not yet released the victim's age or hometown. The investigation is ongoing.
