What happened
On May 3, 2015, a student skydiver performing their first jump using the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) method was involved in an accident at the Krępa Słupska (EPSK) airfield. The jump began normally, with the student successfully exiting the aircraft, completing freefall, and deploying the Navigator 280 parachute. The descent proceeded correctly until reaching an altitude of approximately 500 meters.
At this altitude, the student began to show only partial responsiveness to radio instructions provided by the jump master. As the student descended to 300 meters, the jump master provided specific information regarding wind speed and the intended landing direction, guiding the student to fly into the wind. At approximately 70 meters, the jump master observed the student approaching the windsock area and ordered a course correction to the left or right. The student failed to follow this instruction and landed very close to the windsock. Upon impact, the student attempted to brace the landing by supporting themselves with their arm, resulting in serious injuries.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the training organizer, examined the sequence of events from the initial exit to the landing. The inquiry focused on the student's responsiveness to radio commands and the physical mechanics of the landing contact with the ground.