What happened
On June 11, 2016, an experienced skydiving instructor, with a total of 2,298 jumps, was performing an Accelerated Freefall (AFF) jump near the Chrcynno landing field (EPNC). During the deployment of the main canopy, a Crossfire2 139 parachute, the lines became twisted, causing the canopy to enter a deep spiral descent (twist).
Following standard emergency procedures, the instructor manually released the main canopy and deployed the reserve parachute. The instructor landed on the active part of the landing field; however, the incident resulted in one fatality.
The investigation
Investigators reviewed video footage of the deployment sequence to determine the mechanics of the malfunction. The analysis revealed that as the main canopy was inflating, a distortion occurred at the leading edge near the middle cell. This deformation was caused by a strap connecting the pilot chute to the canopy cover and the apex of the canopy shifting out of place.
Findings
- The primary cause of the malfunction was a distortion of the leading edge of the Crossfire2 139 canopy.
- This distortion was triggered by the improper shifting of the strap connecting the pilot chute to the canopy assembly.
- The specific cause of why this strap shifted unexpectedly could not be determined.