What happened
On May 29, 2021, an experienced skydiver, holding a PJ(INS) qualification and with a prior record of 3,985 jumps, performed a jump from an altitude of 4,000 meters. The separation from the aircraft was executed correctly, and the skydiver maintained a stable freefall. At approximately 1,200 meters, the deployment of the main canopy was initiated and proceeded without issue. However, while performing the final turn during the landing approach, the skydiver struck the ground in the vicinity of the EPPT aerodrome. Emergency medical services were dispatched to the scene and transported the skydiver to a hospital for treatment of serious injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was conducted based on the final report provided by the skydiving organizer. The PKBWL examined the sequence of the jump, from the initial exit to the landing phase, to determine the mechanics of the impact and the altitude at which the maneuver was performed.
Findings
The investigation established that the primary cause of the accident was a technical error in jump execution, specifically performing the final turn at an altitude that was too low relative to the landing terrain. No contributing factors were identified in this occurrence.