What happened
On August 24, 2018, during a skydiving session at Gliwice Airport (EPGL), a skydiver participated in the third jump of the day. After exiting the aircraft at an altitude of 4,000 meters, the jumper successfully deployed their parachute. However, due to prevailing wind conditions, the skydiver drifted toward a densely populated urban area.
While attempting to return to the airfield, the skydiver flew with a crosswind while the rear lines of the parachute were pulled, which reduced forward speed and glide range. Realizing that the airfield was no longer reachable, the skydiver attempted to change the landing site at an altitude of approximately 50 meters. This maneuver involved two aggressive turns, ultimately resulting in a landing on the flat roof of a building and a collision with a chimney. The skydiver sustained one fatality-level injury (noted as serious/severe in context of injuries) including multiple facial injuries and fractures to both the right and left forearms.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight path and the environmental conditions at the time of the jump. The inquiry focused on the skydiver's decision-making process regarding the landing site and the impact of wind conditions on the parachute's performance. The investigation established that the skydiver's drift toward the city was exacerbated by the technical state of the parachute during the return attempt.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the skydiver's error in allowing themselves to drift too far from the intended landing area.
- Wind conditions and the use of pulled rear lines reduced the glide ratio, making the return to the airport impossible.
- The decision to execute aggressive maneuvers at a low altitude led to the impact with the building structure.
Safety action
Following the incident, the operator implemented preventive measures by creating photographic documentation of the built-up areas surrounding the airport. This documentation identifies safe emergency landing zones and has been integrated into the training programs for students, experienced skydivers, and instructors.