What happened
On May 19, 2019, at approximately 14:10 LMT, a skydiver was performing a tandem camera jump at the Chrcynno (EPNC) airfield. During the deployment of the main parachute, a Mamba 111 parachute experienced a malfunction characterized by the entanglement of the left-side steering lines. This malfunction caused the parachute to enter a deep left-hand spiral.
Following standard emergency procedures, the skydiver manually released the main canopy and deployed the reserve parachute. The descent concluded with a landing at the airfield, and the skydiver sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the operator, examined the deployment sequence and the physical state of the parachute equipment. The inquiry focused on the configuration of the lines and the stowage of the deployment bag components.
Findings
- The primary cause of the malfunction was likely the improper stowage of the suspension lines within the deployment bag.
- Excessive slack was noted in the steering lines, contributing to the entanglement during the opening sequence.