What is wingsuit flying as Scot tragically dies in Swiss Alps base jump
A Scots wingsuit flyer tragically died during a jump in the Swiss Alps on Saturday, June 21. Liam Byrne, 24, suffered fatal injuries when jumping from the Gitschen mountain at 7,784ft (2,400m).
The 24-year-old from Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire was described as a very experienced wingsuit flyer. His father, Mike Byrne, paid tribute from Switzerland, telling BBC Scotland News: "Though he has now flown beyond our reach, he will always be with us."
In a touching statement his family described Liam as "fearless" who inspired them through his "kind spirit" and "bold heart". The statement read: "We would like to remember Liam not just for the way he left this world, but for how he lived in it.
"Liam was fearless, not necessarily because he wasn't afraid but because he refused to let fear hold him back. He chased life in a way that most of us only dream of and he soared.
"Skydiving and base jumping was more than just a thrill for Liam - it was freedom. It was where he felt most alive."
But as the tragic accident makes headlines, questions have risen on exactly what wingsuit flying entails, and the risks associated with this extreme hobby.
Here's everything you need to know about wingsuit flying.
What is wingsuit flying?
Wingsuit flying, also known as wingsuit jumping or simply wingsuiting, is a form of skydiving in which the diver wears a winged suit with fabric extending between their arms and legs.
The extra fabric of the suit forms a webbed effect which allows them to glide through the air after jumping from a plane or another high point.
By shifting the position of their body, the diver can control their fall and 'fly' through the air, before using a parachute to land safely.
This extreme sport requires extensive training to be carried out safely, and it comes with its fair share of risks.
How dangerous is wingsuit flying?
According to Explorers Web, more than 400 people have died doing this extreme sport since 1981.
The death rate for wingsuiting is an astonishing one death per 500 jumps, and it is statistically much more dangerous than ordinary skydiving.
Liam Byrne's family continued their touching statement to the flyer who had successfully completed hundreds of jumps in the past, and starred in a BBC documentary The Boy Who Can Fly last November.
The statement added: "Liam was more than just an adventurer. He was a son, brother, grandson, cousin and friend. He was a source of laughter and strength.
"He inspired all of us and made life better with his bold spirit and kind heart. We will miss Liam's wild energy and contagious laugh.
"Though he has now flown beyond our reach, he will always be with us."
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