Two rescued after hang glider accident at Torrey Pines Port

Lifeguards, firefighters and a rescue helicopter responded to the incident at the popular glider spot.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 12:11am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a hang glider accident at the Torrey Pines Glider Port, with the cliffs, sky, and rescue equipment broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes of vibrant color.A dramatic rescue operation at the iconic Torrey Pines Glider Port highlights the risks and rewards of extreme sports in San Diego.San Diego Today

Two people were rescued from the cliffs at the Torrey Pines Glider Port on Saturday after a reported hang glider accident. One victim was airlifted off the cliff, while the second victim was brought to safety by a rope system. The extent of their injuries was not released, but both were taken to a hospital.

Why it matters

The Torrey Pines Glider Port is a popular destination for hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts, but accidents can occur due to the challenging terrain and weather conditions. This incident highlights the importance of safety protocols and the quick response of emergency services in these types of situations.

The details

According to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, the incident occurred shortly after 2:30 p.m. on Saturday. Lifeguards, firefighters and a rescue helicopter were dispatched to the glider port at the end of Torrey Pines Scenic Drive near North Torrey Pines Road. The circumstances leading to the rescue are still unknown, but the SDFRD confirmed it involved a hang glider accident.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday, April 20, 2026 shortly after 2:30 p.m.

The players

San Diego Fire-Rescue Department

The local fire and rescue agency that responded to the incident at the Torrey Pines Glider Port.

Torrey Pines Glider Port

A popular destination for hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts located in San Diego, California.

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The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks involved in extreme sports like hang gliding, and the importance of proper safety protocols and quick emergency response to mitigate those risks and protect participants.