5 March 2025
The engineer and developer behind the super-fast Risen SuperVeloce had a narrow escape at the end of February when a birdstrike shattered the canopy of the aircraft he was flying.
Eng. Alberto Porto was flying with his partner Sabrina David for a flight to replicate previous high-performance technical tests.
The aircraft was the latest from Risen and powered by 160hp Rotax 916iS. The SuperVeloce holds the official FIA speed record at 428.18 km/h – that’s 231kt.
Alberto’s flight started from Alzate Brianza airport heading to the skies of Valtellina Valley in the Dolomites.
The flight was interrupted by a high speed birdstrike that seriously damaged the windshield (canopy) of the aircraft and injured Alberto Porto in the face.
Alberto’s intention was to make an an immediate landing in Cailo, but with his injuries affecting his vision, decided instead to activate the Risen’s emergency parachute.
Alberto Porto pulled the Risen’s emergency chute. Photo: Porto Group
A statement from Porto Group, which makes Risen aircraft, said:
“The activation procedure worked as per the manual and the aircraft gently landed on the ground, setting on the trees in a hilly area. Falling from the branches, the aircraft settled on the ground, allowing the pilots to exit the cockpit on their own.
“Porto Aviation has produced more than 50 Risen aircraft that are flying in skies around the world. The problem that occurred during the flight in Valtellina cannot be linked in anyway to the aircraft.
“Fortunately, his partner and co-pilot only suffered minor abrasions.
“After medical intervention on his face, Eng Porto is recovering fast and we hope to see him flying again soon with all of us enthusiastic pilots.”
