Chinese Paraglider Accidentally Climbs to Near-Record Altitude, Faces Ban

Peng Yujiang, a paraglider in China, unintentionally soared to extreme heights while testing equipment, resulting in a frostbitten appearance and a temporary ban from paragliding activities.

In a remarkable and alarming event, a 55-year-old paraglider from Gansu province, China, found himself inadvertently climbing to staggering heights of approximately 8,600 meters (28,200 feet) on May 29, 2025. What was intended as routine equipment testing during a "ground handling training" session turned into a perilous adventure as strong winds unexpectedly lifted him high into the Qilian mountain range.

The incident, which captured widespread attention after video footage showing Peng Yujiang's icy visage was shared on social media, highlights the risks involved in extreme sports. Local state media reported the near record altitude reached by Peng, likening his perilous experience to conditions encountered at altitudes comparable to those of Mount Everest.

Peng described his harrowing ordeal in a post-event video, recounting the physical toll of the altitude, including oxygen deprivation and frostbite on his hands. "I felt the lack of oxygen. My hands were frozen outside," Peng stated, underscoring the life-threatening nature of the situation he faced.

Initially, the paraglider was at a safe altitude of around 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) when sudden, vigorous drafts propelled him into the sky. His inability to control the glider amid the powerful winds compounded the precariousness of his situation, taking him well above the cloud cover.

In light of this incident, local sporting authorities took immediate action by imposing a six-month ban on Peng from participating in paragliding. This decision illustrates a commitment to safety in extreme sports and serves as a reminder of the dangers that can arise unexpectedly even in seemingly controlled environments.