What happened
On August 29, 2015, a skydiver with extensive experience (2,145 jumps) was participating in a scheduled jump task (RW-15) at the Chrcynno landing site (EPNC). During the freefall phase, the participant deployed the main parachute at an altitude of approximately 800 meters. Upon inflation, the parachute lines became twisted, causing the canopy to enter a backward rotation, often referred to as a "negative" rotation. This malfunction caused the skydiver to be positioned with their back toward the ground.
In response to the malfunction, the skydiver executed the standard emergency procedure by cutting away the main canopy and deploying the reserve parachute. The individual successfully landed on the usable portion of the landing field.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanics of the parachute deployment and the cause of the line twisting. Investigators examined the equipment and confirmed that the control handles were correctly positioned and the slider was located above the suspension lines. The investigation sought to determine why the lines and tapes twisted during the inflation process.
Findings
Investigators were unable to establish a definitive cause for the twisting of the lines and suspension tapes during deployment. However, several contributing factors were identified as potential causes for the malfunction, including:
- Uneven weaving of the suspension lines into the rubber rings
- Discrepancies in the condition of the rubber rings
- Asymmetrical tensioning of the thigh tapes
- An asymmetrical body position during the canopy inflation process