Industry News
An 18-year-old snowboarder fell from the American Flyer chairlift at Copper Mountain, Colorado, on January 6, marking the fourth such incident in Colorado this ski season. The snowboarder fell between towers 25 and 26 of the lift while preparing to unload. Fortunately, no significant injuries were reported, according to the Colorado Passenger Tramway Safety Board. The snowboarder reportedly raised the chairlift’s restraint bar and moved forward to dismount, causing the fall. Inspections revealed no mechanical issues with the chairlift, emphasizing that most falls stem from user error.
While chairlift falls are rare, this season has been unusually active, with four incidents already reported in Summit County. Historically, the Summit County Sheriff’s Office responds to such cases roughly once every other ski season. Despite the relative infrequency of falls, a spokesperson from St. Anthony Hospital noted, “Sadly, we see a number of skiers airlifted to St. Anthony Hospital this time of year.”
This latest incident follows a serious fall at Keystone Resort on December 11, when a 32-year-old snowboarder plunged 47 feet from the Ruby Express chairlift. The rider reportedly attempted to tighten his bindings while holding onto the armrest without lowering the safety bar. He fell onto a rocky trail not yet open for the season and was airlifted to a hospital with significant injuries.
- Related: [UPDATED] Skier Seriously Injured After Falling Almost 50 Feet from Chairlift at Keystone Resort, CO
The Colorado Passenger Tramway Safety Board, which oversees chairlift safety, reminds riders to always use restraint bars and follow proper protocols. Studies consistently show that user error, rather than equipment failure, is the leading cause of chairlift accidents.
Copper Mountain, located in Summit County, is a renowned ski destination offering terrain for all skill levels. The American Flyer lift, a high-speed detachable six chair, was constructed in 2018 and services a range of intermediate and advanced runs in the heart of the resort’s ski area. The American Flyer was constructed by Poma Group and is the longest bubble chairlift by the company operating on American soil.
Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts are reminded to exercise caution when riding chairlifts. Experts recommend lowering the safety bar on every ride, especially during windy conditions or at unfamiliar resorts. Riders should avoid wearing backpacks while seated, as they can shift weight and increase the risk of a fall. Chairlifts are statistically safe, but the unusual frequency of incidents this season serves as a reminder that safety measures can be lifesaving. Small adjustments, like lowering the restraint bar and maintaining stability while on the lift, can prevent tragedies in the mountains. With Colorado resorts continuing to see high visitation this season, officials urge skiers and snowboarders to prioritize safety on the slopes and on the lifts.
