A British ski rep was killed after hitting a snow cannon at high speed in Val D'Isere, eastern France.
The 22-year-old worked in nearby La Plagne, in the French Alps, but was enjoying a day off Tuesday in the popular ski resort with friends when the accident took place on a red run slope.
Rescue services fought to save his life for more than an hour, but he died at the scene.
A full investigation was launched.
The victim was not publicly named, but he is thought to be from Leicester, central England. His family was informed and traveled to France after the incident.
A statement from Crystal Ski, part of the TUI Ski company the man worked for, said no one else was involved in the accident. It said, "His friends who witnessed the fall immediately alerted pisteurs, and a doctor attended the scene, but the young man was declared dead. Our thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues at this very difficult time."
Snow cannons are used to produce artificial snow to improve piste cover and extend the skiing season.
