World mourns wingsuit pilot JJ Wallis after tragic paragliding accident

Cape Town’s aerial sports community is reeling after the death of world-renowned wingsuit pilot Jean-Jacques “JJ” Wallis, whose daring flights over Table Mountain helped define modern human flight. The 36-year-old was killed in a paragliding accident on Lion’s Head on Tuesday, leaving a global network of athletes and admirers stunned — and a family shattered.

“It is with profound and overwhelming sadness that the Wallis family confirms the sudden death of our beloved husband, son, brother, and world-renowned aviator, Jean-Jacques Wallis,” his family said. “JJ was 36 years old.”

To the world, JJ was “a defining figure in the world of extreme aerial sports,” a pioneer who pushed the limits of human flight and earned global recognition as “one of the fastest humans to ever fly the planet's surface.” His breathtaking proximity flights over Cape Town’s landmarks “brought immense pride to South Africa,” and he became internationally known for reaching speeds of up to 230 km/h in a wingsuit.

His achievements were exceptional. In September 2025, he clinched gold in the World Wingsuit League Target Strike event at Tianmen Mountain after two consecutive silver medals — a victory his family described as proof of “his persistence and mastery over precision flying against the world's elite BASE wingsuiters.”

In 2021, a clip filmed with his wife, Katie, was selected for the GoPro Million Dollar Challenge, placing him among only 56 creators featured globally.

But behind the accolades was a man shaped by discipline, humility and heart. “Beyond the headlines and the adrenaline, Jean-Jacques was a man of remarkable discipline, humility, and passion,” his family said. JJ was also a mentor and a strong advocate for safety, sharing two decades of experience to guide and protect younger flyers. His enthusiasm, kindness and adventurous spirit inspired thousands across the world.

“He leaves an indelible legacy of courage and passion for life,” his family said.

JJ is survived by his wife Katie, parents Jacques and Lise, his brother Peter, extended family, and countless friends across the global air-sport community.

A private burial will be held, with a public Celebration of Life to follow in the coming weeks. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to Base Jump Africa, a cause close to JJ’s heart.

“We are grateful for the outpouring of support and condolences we have received,” the family said. “We request privacy during this incredibly difficult time of mourning and grief.”

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