What happened
On May 16, 2015, a student skydiver participating in a training session organized by Aeroklub Kielecki experienced an incident during a jump at the Masłów aerodrome (EPKA). This was the student's second jump. After exiting the aircraft, the main parachute began its deployment process; however, during this phase, the student performed a rotation that resulted in them being positioned upside down relative to the ground.
During the inflation of the canopy, the slider remained caught on the stabilizer limiters. Approximately six seconds after the initial exit, the student manually released the main canopy and deployed the reserve parachute. The student subsequently landed safely within the designated landing zone at the aerodrome.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the equipment and the sequence of the deployment. An examination of the main parachute revealed no physical damage, distortions to the lines, or deformities in the slider limiter covers. The investigation could not establish a specific technical reason for the disruption in the main canopy's deployment process.
Findings
- The primary cause of the deployment irregularity could not be determined.
- The student's rotation during the deployment phase contributed to the unstable inflation of the canopy.
Safety action
Following the incident, the training organizer reviewed the event with the skydivers and provided a refresher on emergency procedures and proper handling during malfunctions.