What happened
On 9 August 2002, a Windlass Aquilla microlight trike, registered ZU-BZN, departed from Witbank Aerodrome (FAWI) for a skydiving operation. The flight carried a pilot and one parachutist. After reaching an altitude of approximately 7,800 ft AMSL, the parachutist prepared for exit. As the individual jumped from the aircraft, their right hand made contact with the rotating propeller, resulting in the severing of fingers.
The investigation
The investigation reviewed the flight details and the circumstances surrounding the jump. It was noted that a briefing between the Chief Parachute Instructor and the parachutist had taken place prior to departure. The aircraft's documentation was found to be in order, with a valid authority to fly and a pilot holding a valid private license. The aircraft had undergone its last annual inspection on 5 April 2002, with 72 flight hours accumulated since that maintenance event.
Findings
- The primary cause of the injury was that the parachutist exited the aircraft with their arms extended wide.
- This positioning caused the right hand to strike the propeller during the exit sequence.
- The aircraft, a microlight trike, was operating within regulations, as such aircraft are permitted to conduct skydiving operations provided they lack fairings.