AIZAWL: In a remarkable feat of courage and skill, a 11-year-old from Mizoram has etched his name in the annals of Indian aviation history by becoming the world’s youngest paraglider.
A native of Saitual District of Mizoram, Samuel Lalbiakhlua, soared into the skies solo at Bir Billing, one of the world’s premier paragliding sites in Himachal Pradesh, and safely landed at Chogan, marking a significant milestone in his budding career.
Additionally, the International Book of Records officially recognised Samuel’s feat, affirming his status as an official record holder.
What makes Samuel’s achievement even more extraordinary is the absence of any familial paragliding legacy.
With no prior family experience in the sport, Samuel has charted his own course, currently honing his skills in the Kangra Valley under the tutelage of the Bir-Billing Paragliding Association.
Samuel’s record-breaking flight lasted over 20 minutes, soaring amidst the majestic Dhauladhar hills.
Welcomed by his mother and throngs of enthusiastic residents, including Indian and foreign flyers, Samuel emerged from his paraglider to a jubilant reception.
Anurag Sharma, President of the Bir-Billing Paragliding Association, hailed Samuel’s achievement as a milestone in the history of Bir Billing.
He highlighted the pivotal role of skilled mentors in nurturing Samuel’s talent and facilitating his historic flight.
Samuel’s adventurous spirit was evident from a young age when, at just eight years old, he conquered Mamrawng peak, one of Mizoram’s highest summits at 1,812 meters.
His passion for adventure sports coupled with remarkable determination continues to propel him to new heights.
The Mizoram Paragliding Association (MPGA) congratulated Samuel on his extraordinary accomplishment, praising his willpower and talent as a source of pride for the state.
Samuel Lalbiakhlua’s journey from the verdant hills of Mizoram to the boundless skies above serves as an inspiration for countless others to dare to dream and reach for the stars.
