What happened
On May 14, 2017, a skydiver was performing a jump as part of task RW-2 at the Chrcynno (EPNC) aerodrome. After the main parachute deployed at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters, a malfunction occurred involving the entanglement of the steering lines with the right-side suspension lines. This entanglement caused a visible deformation of the parachute canopy.
The skydiver attempted to correct the canopy shape by performing dynamic pumping maneuvers with the steering toggles, but these efforts were unsuccessful. As the deformation caused the skydiver to enter an increasing spiral descent, the emergency procedure was initiated. The skydiver manually released the main canopy and deployed the reserve parachute, landing safely on the airfield's utility area without injuries.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the operator, examined the deployment sequence and the physical state of the equipment. The inquiry focused on the interaction between the steering lines and the suspension lines during the inflation process, as well as the integrity of the line management within the parachute container.
Findings
- The investigation identified that the entanglement of the steering lines with the suspension lines was the primary cause of the canopy deformation.
- A potential contributing factor was the improper securing of the right steering toggle, which may have allowed it to release spontaneously.
- The investigation also noted that lines may have slipped out of the rubber loops within the parachute deployment bag, potentially causing the entanglement as the lines tensioned during canopy inflation.