Fatal propeller strike during aircraft boarding

Casualties unknown • Elberta, AL, US

A 31-year-old parachutist died after walking into a running engine propeller while boarding an aircraft.

What happened

During the loading process of 17 parachutists, a 31-year-old male participant approached the loader/jump master to report that he intended to bring a smoke canister on board for his next jump. He further advised that the pilot should be notified of this item.

The loader/jump master instructed the individual to simply board the aircraft, stating that it was his responsibility to notify the pilot of any such information. As the loader began boarding the other jumpers and moved toward the front of the aircraft to relay the message to the cockpit, the subject disregarded instructions and walked from the rear left area of the plane.

The subject proceeded directly toward the cockpit door where the loader and pilot were located. Despite multiple people shouting at him to stop, the subject continued forward and walked into the left side engine propeller, resulting in 1 fatality.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-11-08 DE Havilland DHC-6-6 accident near Elberta, AL?

A 31-year-old parachutist died after walking into a running engine propeller while boarding an aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-11-08 involved a DE Havilland DHC-6-6, registration N1022S, operated by Emerald Coast Skydiving Center, at Elberta, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

a passenger's inadvertent encounter with a rotating propeller.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09227. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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