NTSB · Safety Recommendation
Safety Recommendation A-14-064
Recommendation
TO THE FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION: In accordance with 14 United States Code 141 and 49 United States Code 106(m),request assistance from the Coast Guard to enforce existing Federal Aviation Administration regulations applicable to parasailing operations.
Safety Issue and Context
This special investigation report examines parasailing accidents in the United States and its territories, and identifies several areas where the risk associated with parasailing may be mitigated. Each year, an estimated 3 to 5 million people in the United States participate in parasailing; however, no federal regulations or guidelines establish specific training or certification for parasailing operators. There is no requirement for inspection of the parasailing equipment, and no requirement to suspend operations during inclement or unsuitable weather conditions.
As this report will describe, passengers seeking to enjoy the thrill, adventure, and panoramic views of parasailing risk becoming accident victims. Due to the nature of parasailing, accidents usually result in either serious injury or death.
This investigation report strives to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities associated with parasailing through recommendations that will improve safety for parasailing passengers and operators. The report also examines operations, equipment, and the various dynamic forces that affect parasailing.
Response History
September 6, 2016 · NTSB Correspondence · FAA
We note that you met with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and determined that the USCG cannot enforce FAA rules. However, you also determined that the USCG may inspect parasail vessels for possession of approved FAA-issued waivers to Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 101.7, “Hazardous Operations.” We further note that, based on this determination, you implemented a change in policy that requires parasail operators to have a copy of the approved waiver on board the vessel for USCG review. This change in policy is an alternative that satisfies Safety Recommendation A-14-64, which is classified CLOSED—ACCEPTABLE ALTERNATE ACTION.
August 1, 2016 · Recipient Response · FAA
-From Michael P. Huerta, Administrator: The Federal Aviation Administration (F/\A) held a meeting with representatives from the United States Coast Guard (USCG), at which it was determined that the USCG cannot enforce FAA rules. However, the USCG may inspect parasail vessels for possession of approved FAA-issued waivers to Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations § 1 0 I. 7. Hazardous Operations. Based on this finding, the FAA implemented a change in policy that requires parasail operators to have a copy of the approved waiver on board the vessel for USCG review.
To further address the Board's recommendation. the FAA and USCG jointly created Marine Safety Information Bulletin (MSIB), Parasailing - Flight Safety and Rules. This bulletin is for parasail operators and includes FAA regulations applicable to parasail and banner tow flight operations. The MSIB is available on the USCG Web site at: https://www.uscg.mil/msib/docs/003_15_3-17-2015.pdf.
November 17, 2014 · NTSB Correspondence · FAA
We note that you are discussing with the Coast Guard the enforcement of federal regulations pertaining to parasail operators and are determining the effectiveness of existing regulations and orders as they relate to separation standards between aircraft and parasail operations. We look forward to receiving the results of your efforts and your plan for addressing the safety issues identified in these recommendations. Pending our receipt and review of this detailed information, Safety Recommendations A-14-64 through -66 are classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.
September 9, 2014 · Recipient Response · FAA
-From Michael P. Huerta, Administrator: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) held a meeting with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) to discuss enforcement of parasail operators in violation of Federal regulations. Additional meetings are being scheduled Jor fisca l year 2015, at which the FAA anticipates reaching a determination on whether the USCG can take enforcement action against parasail operators.