What happened
On May 19, 2017, during a landing accuracy competition at the Nowy Glinnik (EPTM) drop zone, a skydiver was performing a landing maneuver. While at an altitude of approximately 35 meters, the skydiver attempted a turn with the wind. During this maneuver, the skydiver executed a highly aggressive left turn of approximately 110 degrees. This maneuver resulted in a significant loss of altitude, leading to a collision with the ground.
Emergency medical services were dispatched to the scene. The skydiver was transported to a hospital, where medical personnel treated a dislocated ankle and the loss of four teeth.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the user, focused on the flight path and the execution of the landing maneuver under specific wind conditions. The investigation established the sequence of events leading from the high-altitude approach to the impact with the ground.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was performing a maneuver at a low altitude while facing the wind.
- The aggressive nature of the 110-degree turn directly contributed to the rapid loss of altitude necessary to complete the turn safely.