Tragic Loss: Scottish Wingsuit Flyer Liam Byrne Dies in Swiss Alps Jump

Wed Jul 02 2025 00:06:24 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)
Tragic Loss: Scottish Wingsuit Flyer Liam Byrne Dies in Swiss Alps Jump

The acclaimed 24-year-old skydiver succumbed to injuries sustained during a jump from the Gitschen mountain, leaving behind a legacy of adventure and inspiration.


Liam Byrne, a 24-year-old British wingsuit flyer from Aberdeenshire, tragically died following a jump in the Swiss Alps. Known for his adventurous spirit and as a participant in the upcoming documentary "The Boy Who Can Fly," Byrne had an impressive track record with over 4,000 jumps. His family has expressed sorrow yet pride over his fearless pursuit of life.


A Scottish wingsuit flyer, Liam Byrne, has passed away after a jump gone wrong in the Swiss Alps. The 24-year-old British champion from Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, was critically injured during a jump from the Gitschen mountain on Saturday, which rises to 7,874 feet (2,400 meters). Just recently, he was featured in a BBC documentary titled "The Boy Who Can Fly," showcasing his remarkable feats.

Byrne was noted for his vast experience in wingsuit flying—a form of skydiving involving specialized suits designed for mid-air lift. Over his decade-long career, he completed more than 4,000 jumps. In interviews, he shared his early aspirations of flight, recalling how, at age 13, he expressed his desire to his father to "learn to fly like a bird." This passion for flying grew from his childhood, where he often admired birds and wished for the same freedom.

The skydiving instructor had always grappled with the balance between thrill and safety. He remarked, “Even though I try to make it safe, I still think about my family's concerns." He emphasized the importance of preparation in reducing risks. There was a compelling element of pride in his reckless pursuits, referring to himself as “about as far as a reckless adrenaline junkie as you can possibly get.”

Byrne delved into extreme sports early; by 12, he had climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and engaged in dog-sledding through the Arctic and scuba diving. His journey into skydiving began at 16, and by 18, he donned the wingsuit he called a "second skin," allowing him control in the air.

Following the tragic incident, Liam’s parents, Mike and Gillian, shared their heartfelt tribute. They wanted him to be remembered not only for his premature departure but for his vibrant life. They described him as fearless, driven by an insatiable desire to live boldly, stating: "He chased life in a way that most of us only dream of and he soared."

The family also reflected on the joy wingsuit flying brought him, viewing it as more than a mere thrill—it was where he felt most alive. They expressed their profound loss, recognizing that his energetic spirit and infectious laughter would be greatly missed, saying, "Though he has now flown beyond our reach, he will always be with us."

The event is being investigated by the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland and the Cantonal Police of Uri, as the tragic accident unfolded shortly after Byrne and two other pilots made their jumps. The British Foreign Office confirmed that it is offering assistance to the bereaved family of the aviator.

Follow us

© 2024 SwissX REDD UK ltd. All Rights Reserved.