What happened
On August 3, 2018, a tandem skydiver was performing a jump from an altitude of 3,500 meters near the Zamość (EPZA) landing area. The jump proceeded normally until the main parachute was deployed at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters. During the deployment process, a malfunction known as a "cauliflower" (a type of canopy distortion) occurred on the left side of the parachute.
The tandem pilot attempted to clear the lines several times, but the distortion persisted. Following standard emergency procedures, the pilot proceeded to cut away the malfunctioning main parachute and deployed the reserve parachute. The reserve canopy inflated correctly, allowing for a controlled descent. The landing was completed within the designated tandem landing zone without further incident.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the operator, focused on the deployment sequence and the condition of the equipment. The inquiry examined the deployment mechanics of the Sigma 3</strong>370 parachute and the actions taken by the pilot during the emergency procedure.
Findings
- The primary cause of the malfunction was identified as a probable error in the packing technique of the main parachute.
- The pilot successfully executed the emergency procedure, transitioning from the malfunctioning main canopy to the reserve canopy.
- The reserve parachute functioned as intended, ensuring a safe landing.