Bournemouth, UK – September 3, 2018 — A dramatic scene unfolded at the Bournemouth Air Festival when jetpack pilot Dr. Angelo Grubisic plunged into the sea after his equipment caught fire mid-flight. The incident occurred during a demonstration of his James Bond-style jetpack, captivating and alarming spectators along the Dorset coastline.

Dr. Grubisic had just launched from the pier, ascending approximately 20 feet above the water, when flames erupted from the engine attached to his right arm. Witnesses reported seeing the pilot instinctively pull his arm away from the fire, causing him to spin uncontrollably before crashing into the sea.

Emergency response teams acted swiftly; a rescue boat reached Dr. Grubisic moments after the crash, providing him with a life jacket before assisting him back to shore. Despite the alarming visuals, he appeared uninjured and was able to walk unaided upon returning to land.

The Bournemouth Air Festival, the UK’s largest air show, was commemorating the centenary of the Royal Air Force and the end of World War I. The event spans a 1.5-mile stretch of Bournemouth’s coastline and attracts thousands of visitors annually.

Dr. Grubisic, a scientist and jetpack innovator, is known for pushing the boundaries of personal flight technology. This incident highlights the inherent risks associated with experimental aviation and underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols in such demonstrations.

While the spectacle left many spectators in shock, the swift emergency response and Dr. Grubisic’s safe recovery ensured the incident concluded without serious injury. Organizers have not announced any changes to the festival’s schedule following the mishap.