A Chinese paraglider, Peng Yujiang, was unexpectedly lifted to 8,000 meters by a powerful updraft during a practice run in the Qilian mountains. His ordeal, captured on video, went viral. Despite surviving the extreme altitude and -35°C temperatures, Peng was banned from paragliding for six months for failing to register his flight. His friend, Gu Zhimin, who posted the video, also received a six-month ban. Authorities stated the flight, though accidental, lacked proper approval. While Peng's altitude approached a world record, it won't be officially recognized.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.