SALALAH, Oman: Oman has temporarily suspended all paragliding activities at authorized sites following a fatal accident in Dhofar that killed a pilot and his sister.
The suspension announced Wednesday by the Omani Air Sports Committee took effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice.
The committee did not provide further details about the circumstances of the crash.
Pilot and sister killed
The accident involved Captain Ahmad bin Hamdan Al Kalbani and his sister, who died after falling from a paraglider in the Dhofar governorate.
The Omani Air Sports Committee expressed condolences to the family and shared a tribute to Al Kalbani following the incident.
The announcement has prompted an outpouring of condolences and prayers from members of the public.
Safety review during Khareef season
The suspension comes during Khareef Dhofar, the annual monsoon season that transforms the landscape around Salalah with mist, rain and lush vegetation.
The season is one of Oman’s busiest tourism periods, attracting visitors from across the Gulf and beyond. Salalah is particularly popular with families and residents of the UAE seeking cooler weather and outdoor experiences during the summer.
Paragliding, hiking, camping, wadi excursions and visits to waterfalls are among the outdoor activities available in and around Dhofar.
However, the seasonal weather can also bring reduced visibility, rain and fog, creating additional challenges for outdoor and aviation-related activities.
Suspension remains in effect
The Omani Air Sports Committee has not announced when paragliding activities will resume.
Visitors planning outdoor activities in Dhofar should monitor official Omani safety notices and follow restrictions issued by authorities while the suspension remains in force.
Further information about the crash and any subsequent safety assessment is expected to be issued by the relevant authorities as it becomes available.
