On an October day in Girona, Spain, a seemingly routine flight took a terrifying turn for influencer couple Xavi Caballol and Alba Serch. The 49-year-old entrepreneur and his partner were aboard an ultralight aircraft when, mid-flight, the engine stalled. Captured on video from inside the cockpit, the chilling footage shows Caballol attempting a maneuver before the sudden engine failure. Panic sets in as he desperately tries to regain control and pull the aircraft up, but the plane hurtles towards the ground, plummeting 150 feet to the earth below. The impact resulted in life-altering injuries for both Caballol and Serch, including fractured skulls, broken backs, and a multitude of other broken bones.
The crash left the couple fighting for their lives. Images taken after the accident reveal the extent of Caballol’s injuries, showcasing a severely wounded face with two black eyes and deep lacerations. His fractured skull resulted in partial facial paralysis. Serch also suffered a severe leg injury. The ensuing months were dedicated to grueling rehabilitation. Confined to wheelchairs due to their back injuries, the couple embarked on the arduous journey of learning to walk again, facing the physical and emotional challenges of their recovery.
The decision to share the harrowing video of the crash was a deliberate one, driven by a desire to highlight the potential dangers of ultralight aviation. Caballol, who previously flaunted his pilot’s license and opulent lifestyle online under the moniker “Ferrariman,” vowed never to fly again. He maintains that ultralight aviation is not as safe as often portrayed, advocating for its restriction to experienced commercial and private pilots with extensive flight hours. He believes the near-fatal experience was a harsh lesson learned, emphasizing the need for caution and respect for the inherent risks of flying.
Prior to the accident, Caballol and Serch were prominent figures on social media, documenting their extravagant lifestyle. Caballol, originally from Andorra, had amassed a considerable online following in Spain, often showcasing his collection of luxury cars and exotic vacation destinations. The couple’s social media presence portrayed a life of affluence and adventure. However, the crash dramatically altered their trajectory, forcing them to embrace a quieter, more introspective existence away from the constant glare of the cameras.
The near-death experience has profoundly impacted the couple’s outlook on life. Caballol acknowledges that they were previously self-absorbed, focused primarily on their own desires and pursuits. However, the accident instilled in them a newfound empathy and a desire to help others. They express immense gratitude for the second chance they’ve been given and now prioritize giving back. The experience has shifted their focus from material possessions and self-promotion to a deeper appreciation for life, relationships, and the importance of contributing positively to the world.
The once active “Ferrariman” YouTube channel has been deleted, replaced by a more subdued online presence. Caballol maintains a backup account under his own name, with a following of nearly 100,000 subscribers. This platform has become a space for him to share updates on their recovery, reflect on the accident, and advocate for greater safety awareness in ultralight aviation. The crash served as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and has transformed Caballol and Serch, leaving them with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to using their experience to help others avoid similar tragedies.
