Tech

French jetpack inventor survives horror 15m fall

Published

4 years ago

May 30, 2022

Costa Haritos

The French man behind the famous jetpack has been injured in a lake crash

Franky Zapata was taking part in an exhibition event when he appeared to lose control of his invention.

It’s believed he fell about 15 meters into a lake before being taken to hospital.

Crash impressionnant de @frankyzapata aujourd’hui au meeting aérien de #biscarrosse Heureusement il est tombé dans l’eau et devrait s’en sortir je l’espère sans trop de soucis. #frankyzapata #biscarrosse #crash pic.twitter.com/SjWbGOp74W
— Alex (@Alex170346741) May 28, 2022

The 43-year-old built the flying board himself. It can reach speeds of up to 140 kilometres per hour.

The former jet-ski champion rose to fame after crossing the English channel on his device in 2019.

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Costa Haritos

Costa is a news producer at ticker NEWS. He has previously worked as a regional journalist at the Southern Highlands Express newspaper. He also has several years' experience in the fire and emergency services sector, where he has worked with researchers, policymakers and local communities. He has also worked at the Seven Network during their Olympic Games coverage and in the ABC Melbourne newsroom. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Professional), with expertise in journalism, politics and international relations. His other interests include colonial legacies in the Pacific, counter-terrorism, aviation and travel.