Fatal skydiving accident near Garderen and Elspeet

2 fatalities • Garderen, Netherlands • Flight

A single-engine aircraft crashed in an open field during a skydiving exercise, resulting in two fatalities and two injuries.

What happened

During a local skydiving training session, a single-engine aircraft was operating with one pilot and three passengers on board. While the aircraft was maintaining a steady cruise altitude, the first skydiver exited the cabin. During this exit process, the individual reportedly collided with the aircraft's stabilizer.

This impact caused the pilot to lose control of the plane. The aircraft subsequently descended into an open field situated between the villages of Garderen and Elspeet. The accident resulted in two fatalities and two injuries. Among those lost were the first skydiver who exited the plane and a second parachutist. The pilot and another passenger survived the crash but sustained injuries.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the loss of control was the impact between a skydiver and the aircraft stabilizer during the jump sequence.

Probable cause

The aircraft became uncontrollable after a skydiver struck the stabilizer during their exit from the cabin.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1968-04-23 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Garderen, Netherlands?

A single-engine aircraft crashed in an open field during a skydiving exercise, resulting in two fatalities and two injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1968-04-23 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1968-04-23 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration S-2, operated by Royal Netherlands Air Force - Koninklijke Luchtmacht (1953-), at Garderen, Netherlands.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft became uncontrollable after a skydiver struck the stabilizer during their exit from the cabin.

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