What happened
On September 5, 2020, a licensed skydiver was performing a jump from an altitude of 1,500 meters at the Lublin Radawiec (EPLR) aerodrome. The weather conditions at the time were reported as very good, with surface winds measured at 4-5 m/s from a 220° direction. The descent and approach to the landing area proceeded normally until the final phase of the landing. During this stage, the skydiver experienced a sudden and drastic change in wind speed and direction, which resulted in a significant loss of lift in the Aerodyne Pilot 168 parachute. This loss of lift led to a hard landing with a high vertical velocity, resulting in injuries to both legs.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the meteorological conditions at the time of the landing, and the specific location of the touchdown. The inquiry focused on the impact of wind fluctuations and the proximity of the landing to obstacles such as buildings and trees.