A paraglider in China had a shocking experience when he was unexpectedly lifted nearly 28,000 feet into the sky while testing new equipment. Peng Yujiang, a 55-year-old enthusiast, took off from the Qilian Mountains, located in northern China, at about 984 feet. What started as a routine test quickly turned into a life-threatening adventure.
Around 20 minutes into his flight, Peng was caught in a powerful updraft. This sudden force propelled him to altitudes just below the peak of Mount Everest, which stands at 29,000 feet. Footage from a camera mounted on his glider captured the entire ordeal, showing him soaring above the clouds, his face covered in ice as he fought to control his descent.
Peng had not intended to take off that day. He was simply on the ground testing his new parachute when the winds swept him away. He described the terrifying moments in the sky, stating, “It was terrifying… Everything was white. I couldn’t see any direction.” He struggled with the disorienting conditions and feared for his life as he battled against the winds.
Despite the extreme altitude and lack of oxygen, Peng managed to stay conscious long enough to make a safe descent. He later recalled feeling the oxygen thin and his hands freezing as he fought to regain control. He believes he may have lost consciousness during his descent.
His flight has drawn attention within the paragliding community. Fellow enthusiasts have dubbed him a “mythical figure,” as he reached such heights without an oxygen tank, a feat that could qualify him for a Guinness World Record.
However, his adventure has not come without consequences. Peng is now under investigation by Chinese authorities for flying without permission and has been suspended from paragliding for six months. He maintains that he had no plans to fly and was only testing his equipment when the unexpected happened.
This incident highlights the dangers of paragliding, especially in areas with unpredictable weather. It serves as a reminder of the importance of safety precautions in extreme sports.