What happened
On August 10, 2019, a student skydiver was performing their 96th jump as part of a training task at Chrcynno (EPNC). The jump originated from an altitude of 4,000 meters with a commanded 60-second delay. During the freefall phase, the student attempted a backflip maneuver as part of an exam for a Qualification Certificate. During this maneuver, the student experienced sudden pain in their right shoulder.
Upon realizing the injury, the student ceased the maneuvers. At an altitude of approximately 1,300 to 1,500 meters, the student attempted to deploy the main parachute. However, due to the physical limitations caused by the injury, the student was unable to perform the deployment procedure with their right hand. Consequently, the student initiated emergency procedures, released the main parachute pins, and deployed the reserve parachute. The landing occurred outside the active area of the airfield.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the user, focused on the physical circumstances of the jump and the medical state of the student. The inquiry established that the student had a history of a significant injury from 2007 that had undergone surgical treatment.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a dislocation of the right shoulder.
- The injury was a recurrence of a previous injury sustained in 2007.
- The physical pain and resulting loss of function in the right arm prevented the standard deployment of the main parachute, necessitating the use of the reserve canopy.