What happened
On June 21, 2020, a student skydiver was performing a static line jump from an AN-2 aircraft, registration SP-ANI, near Pruszcz Gdański (EPPR). The jump was part of a training sequence, marking the student's third jump of the day and third jump using the static line method.
During the deployment process from an altitude of 1,200 meters, the student interfered with the opening of the Falcon 300 parachute. As the parachute was deploying, the student placed their hand between the exiting lines, which disrupted the deployment and caused the canopy to form a "cauliflower" shape, resulting in an uncontrolled rotation of the parachute. The student attempted to correct the malfunction by vigorously pulling the control handle, but was unsuccessful. At approximately 700 meters, the student initiated emergency procedures, successfully deploying the reserve parachute.
The student landed on a usable portion of the airfield, however, the landing was performed into the wind. During the touchdown, the student's leg slipped forward, causing them to strike the ground with their buttocks. The impact resulted in a fractured L1 vertebra. Emergency medical services were summoned, and the student was transported to the Provincial Hospital in Gdańsk.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the sequence of events and the student's actions during the deployment phase. The investigation focused on the mechanics of the parachute malfunction and the circumstances surrounding the landing.
Findings
- The primary cause of the injury was the landing into the wind.
- The student failed to maintain proper separation from the aircraft during the deployment phase, specifically by placing a hand among the lines.
- The student misjudged the landing approach direction, despite having completed two successful landings earlier that same day under identical weather conditions.
Safety action
- Increased emphasis should be placed on the proper technique for separating from the aircraft during ground-based practical training.