Parasailing horror in Phuket as cable snaps mid-air, tourist plunges into sea

A parasailing accident at Kamala Beach in Kathu district, Phuket, left a tourist and a staff member plunging into the sea after a tow cable snapped mid-air on 20 April 2026. Video of the incident quickly spread online, showing both individuals falling from the parasail as the speedboat continued forward. The event has drawn widespread attention to safety standards for water sports in Phuket.

Video Footage and Immediate Response

Footage captured by bystanders shows the parasail in flight just before the cable breaks, sending the occupants into the water. The video circulated widely on social media within hours of the accident.

Local rescue teams responded to the scene after witnesses raised the alarm. Both the tourist and the staff member were retrieved from the sea shortly after the fall, officials said.

Concerns Over Parasailing Safety

The incident has sparked renewed scrutiny of parasailing operations along Phuket’s beaches. Kamala Beach is a popular site for water sports, with multiple operators offering parasailing rides daily.

Officials have not released further details on the cause of the cable failure or the condition of those involved. No specific safety violations or penalties have been announced as of publication.

Source: https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2026/04/22/parasailing-horror-in-phuket-as-cable-snaps-mid-air-tourist-plunges-into-sea/