What happened
On August 9, 2015, a skydiving incident occurred at the Gliwice aerodrome (EPGL). The participant, an experienced skydiver with 151 total jumps and 41 jumps performed using a Skipper 190 parachute, was executing jump task RW 3. The freefall portion of the jump proceeded normally, and the parachute deployed at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters.
During the final approach to the landing zone, the skydiver failed to pull the steering lines in a timely manner. This delay resulted in an insufficient flare of the parachute. Consequently, the skydiver struck the ground with their legs tucked backward, leading to physical injuries.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the landing phase of the jump. The inquiry established that the deployment and freefall phases were within normal parameters and that the primary issue occurred during the transition to landing.
Findings
- The primary cause of the injury was the delayed flare of the parachute during the landing phase.
- The impact occurred because the altitude was insufficient for a controlled landing due to the late manipulation of the steering lines.
Safety action
Following the incident, the jump organizer conducted a briefing for all other participants to reinforce the correct procedures for landing.