Chinese man breaks world record for paragliding without oxygen

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On May 24th, Chinese paragliding enthusiast Peng Yujiang took off from a launch point at approximately 3,000 meters in the Qilian Mountains of Gansu Province.
He was then sucked into a cumulonimbus cloud, which carried him to an altitude of 8,589 meters.
At this height, the temperature dropped to -40°C, covering Peng's entire body with white ice. Despite the extreme conditions, Peng successfully landed in a valley over 1,000 meters below, relying on his exceptional physical fitness and extensive experience.
The high-altitude locator and temperature sensor inside his paragliding gear recorded the entire flight data. Unintentionally, Peng broke the world record for paragliding without oxygen. This feat also provided first-hand observational data for future research on cumulonimbus clouds.

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Latest Update on the Incident:
According to an official report released this afternoon by the Gansu Provincial Aeronautical Sports Association, Peng Yujiang was conducting ground handling training (adjusting his paragliding equipment) when he was suddenly caught in strong updrafts and a "cloud suction" phenomenon, which pulled him into a cumulonimbus cloud. This caused his paraglider to be passively lifted to an altitude of approximately 8,600 meters.

As a result, the authorities classified this as a technical accident caused by unexpected weather conditions, rather than an intentional violation of regulations or an extreme sports challenge. Since Peng failed to effectively manage the risks in this emergency situation, he is required to submit a reflection report on the incident.

Additionally, Peng’s fellow paraglider Gu Zhimin posted flight footage without authorization, leading to public misunderstandings about "reckless behavior" and "unauthorized flying." As a disciplinary measure, Gu has been suspended from flying for six months.

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