What happened
On July 15, 2023, at approximately 12:20 LMT, a student skydiver was performing an AFF1 training jump at the Chrycynno (EPNC) dropzone. The jump was conducted under the supervision of two instructors. During the initial freefall phase, the student responded correctly to radio instructions provided by the instructors. The deployment of the parachute also occurred as intended.
However, following the opening of the canopy, the student failed to symmetrically brake one of the steering lines. This imbalance caused the Equinox 259 parachute to enter a spiral descent. Although one of the instructors attempted to provide corrective guidance via radio, the student did not follow the commands or execute the necessary emergency procedures. As a result, the student collided at high speed with a garden gazebo located at the edge of the landing area. The student sustained a head injury and was subsequently transported to a hospital.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the student's failure to symmetrically brake the steering lines after canopy deployment.
Safety action
- Training protocols should place increased emphasis on practical training regarding the symmetrical braking of steering lines and the execution of emergency procedures.
- The training process should incorporate practical steering line braking exercises using an actual training parachute rather than relying solely on mock-up models.