An unknown paraglider pilot caused massive disruption to air traffic at Palma de Mallorca Airport (Son Sant Joan) last Sunday. The Spanish Guardia Civil is searching for the perpetrator, whose risky maneuver caused the diversion of four aircraft and significant delays.
The incident occurred around 13:00 p.m., when air traffic controllers spotted a paraglider in the immediate vicinity of the airport. The Guardia Civil, the National Police, and the local police were alerted. Air traffic controllers reported delays of approximately 40 minutes until normal flight operations could resume. Four flights were diverted to alternative airports.
The paraglider pilot faces a hefty fine under Spanish Air Safety Law 21/2003. Penalties for such violations can range from €45.000 to €250.000. The investigation by the Fiscal Section of the Guardia Civil at the airport is in full swing.