What happened
On June 11, 2016, a highly experienced tandem skydiver, holding multiple instructor ratings, performed a tandem jump with a passenger from an altitude of 3,000 meters. The jump originated from the Pobiednik Wielki (EPKP) airfield. The initial separation from the aircraft and the deployment of the drogue parachute proceeded without incident, and the descent remained stable.
At approximately 1,800 meters, the instructor initiated the deployment of the main parachute. Following the deployment sequence, the canopy underwent a dynamic opening and the lines became twisted. Upon resolving the line twists, the instructor observed a significant tear on the upper surface of the right side of the canopy, noting that two outer cells had collapsed. Following established emergency procedures, the instructor immediately jettisoned the malfunctioning main canopy and deployed the reserve parachute, which inflated correctly. The landing was completed at a pre-planned location within the airfield grounds.
The investigation
The investigation examined the equipment and flight data recorded by the instructor's Pro-track acoustic altimeter. Analysis of the altimeter data revealed a maximum vertical descent speed of approximately 200 km/h, which was within the manufacturer's specified limits for the Plexus 358 parachute.
An inspection of the equipment confirmed a large tear on the upper surface of the canopy, specifically affecting the second cell from the right. The damage extended from the leading edge across approximately three-quarters of the cell's length.
Findings
- The primary cause of the malfunction could not be definitively determined.
- The investigation did not rule out the possibility that the canopy tear was caused by accidental contact with a sharp object, such as during the handling of the unfolded canopy after a previous jump.
- The instructor's decision to deploy the reserve parachute was consistent with standard emergency procedures.