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Parachute Jumper Inadvertently Deploys Reserve Chute During Exit (N8883X)

Carlisle, AR, US

On December 15, 1991, a Cessna 182D (registration N8883X) operated by James R. Weddle was involved in an aviation accident near Carlisle, AR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inadvertent deployment of the reserve parachute by the jumper, which pulled the jumper from the wing strut and caused impact damage to the right horizontal stabilizer. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A parachute jumper exiting an aircraft at 8,500 feet inadvertently deployed the reserve chute, was pulled from the strut, and struck the horizontal stabilizer.

What happened

During a daytime flight operating at 8,500 feet mean sea level, a parachute jumper exited the airplane to position themselves on the right wing strut in preparation for the jump. While positioning, the jumper's reserve parachute inadvertently opened. The deployment pulled the jumper from the strut, causing them to impact the leading edge of the right horizontal stabilizer and bend the spar. The airplane subsequently landed safely without further incident.

Findings

The investigation determined that the inadvertent deployment of the reserve parachute was the primary factor in the sequence of events. The jumper's contact with the aircraft structure resulted in damage to the right horizontal stabilizer. No injuries were reported, and the flight concluded safely.

Probable cause

The inadvertent deployment of the reserve parachute by the jumper, which pulled the jumper from the wing strut and caused impact damage to the right horizontal stabilizer.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Dec 1991 Cessna 182D accident near Carlisle, AR?

A parachute jumper exiting an aircraft at 8,500 feet inadvertently deployed the reserve chute, was pulled from the strut, and struck the horizontal stabilizer.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Dec 1991 Cessna 182D accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Dec 1991 involved a Cessna 182D, registration N8883X, operated by James R. Weddle, at Carlisle, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The inadvertent deployment of the reserve parachute by the jumper, which pulled the jumper from the wing strut and caused impact damage to the right horizontal stabilizer.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18606. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.