What happened
On August 9, 2009, at approximately 10:50 UTC, a 31-year-old skydiver was performing a formation skydiving (RW) jump from an altitude of 4,000 meters at Kunovice Airport (LKKU). After completing the formation assignment, the skydiver deployed his Crossfire 2-119 parachute.
While descending toward the landing area, the skydiver attempted a sharp left turn of approximately 230° to 250° at an altitude of roughly 40 to 45 meters. This maneuver caused a sudden loss of altitude and a rapid increase in forward airspeed. The skydiver failed to level the parachute or stabilize the descent before impact. The parachute struck the ground at an angle of approximately 30° to 40°, resulting in a high-impact collision.
Emergency services and landing zone personnel provided immediate first aid. Despite resuscitation efforts by bystanders and medical professionals from the Uherské Hradiště emergency service, the skydiver succumbed to his injuries during transport to the hospital.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation reviewed statements from the drop zone controller, the landing zone supervisor, and various witnesses. The investigation also examined the skydiver's qualifications, experience, and the technical condition of the equipment. The investigation confirmed that the skydiver was a highly experienced jumper with 480 total jumps, including extensive experience with smaller parachute models. The meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were found to be suitable for skydiving operations, and the landing area complied with all safety regulations. The investigation concluded that the ground personnel and the aircraft crew had no influence on the sequence of events.
Findings
- The skydiver failed to control the rapid descent caused by a sharp turning maneuver at low altitude.
- The impact occurred on a very hard grass surface, which contributed to the severity of the injuries.
- The primary cause of death was polytrauma, including severe injuries to the head, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and limbs.
- All parachute equipment, including the main Crossfire 2-119 and the reserve WP-150, was found to be in functional condition and properly maintained.