Paragliding pilots in Ölüdeniz, in Türkiye’s Fethiye district, have stopped flying in protest at rising costs and what they say are unresolved industry problems. The move affects one of the area’s biggest tourism draws, with the pilots saying they want to protect the future of flights from Babadağ.
The Ölüdeniz Paragliding Pilots Cooperative said the suspension of flights was meant to draw attention to mounting financial pressure, safety concerns and the lack of action on long-standing complaints. The group said the issue was not directed at tourists or visitors.
Spokesperson Gani Arslan said paragliding was one of the main engines of Fethiye tourism, but argued that years of complaints had not been fixed. Pilots also called for Babadağ’s launch sites to meet international standards, for a second ambulance to be on constant duty, for road access to the take-off areas to be made safer and for sector representatives to be included in decision-making.
In a statement, the pilots said the sector had been pushed into a serious dead end by rising costs, missing infrastructure, inspection problems, unplanned growth and uncontrolled competition. They said selling flights below sustainable prices had left businesses under pressure, while insurance, tax, transfer and operating costs kept rising.
“Our aim is to protect the future of Babadağ paragliding operations,” the pilots said. They added that their action was not against tourism or guests, but was intended to make their voices heard.
The suspension has reduced the number of paragliders visible in the skies above Babadağ, a sign of the dispute’s impact on one of the region’s best-known activities. Industry representatives said they were waiting for a solution.
Paragliding from Babadağ has long been a flagship activity for Ölüdeniz, drawing visitors with views over the turquoise coast and helping support hotels, transfers and other tourism services in the area. The current dispute highlights the strain on adventure tourism operators as costs rise and businesses compete on price.
It also raises questions about safety and infrastructure at one of Türkiye’s most famous launch sites. The pilots said safer roads, better-equipped facilities and more reliable emergency support were needed if the sector was to remain sustainable.
Ölüdeniz is one of Türkiye’s best-known seaside resorts and Babadağ is central to its tourism economy. The pilots’ decision to stop flying has underlined how dependent the destination is on a single high-profile attraction.
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