What happened
On September 24, 2013, at Klatovy Airport (LKKT), an experienced skydiver was performing a specialized training mission involving high-speed landing maneuvers, known as "swooping." The skydiver had arrived at the airfield the previous day and had successfully completed two initial jumps that day, practicing 270-degree turns using a high-speed parachute.
During the third planned jump from an altitude of 1,500 m AGL, the skydiver initiated a high-speed maneuver. After a period of freefall, the main parachute was deployed and functioned correctly. The skydiver approached the landing zone by performing a 270-degree turn. To execute the high-speed maneuver, the skydiver initiated a steep left turn, likely by pulling the left toggles or steering lines. This maneuver caused the parachute's speed to increase rapidly.
As the skydiver completed the turn, they attempted to level out the steep descent. However, due to the high velocity and insufficient altitude, the skydiver was unable to arrest the descent in time. The skydiver struck the water surface of a man-made landing area at high speed. The impact caused severe blunt force trauma, specifically a rupture of the thoracic aorta, leading to fatal internal bleeding. Despite immediate assistance from the landing zone supervisor and medical personnel, the skydiver passed away at a local hospital.
The investigation
An investigation by the ÚZPLN examined the skydiver's equipment, including the XF 15-105 main parachute, the reserve parachute, and the harness. The inspection confirmed that all components were fully functional, properly maintained, and in compliance with all regulations. The skydiver's Altimaster N3 altimeter was also tested and found to be working correctly with appropriate alarm settings.
The investigation also reviewed the meteorological conditions at the time of the accident. While there were light to moderate mechanical turbulences and winds from the west/northwest, the weather was within the permitted limits for such maneuvers. The investigation also reviewed video footage of the jump and interviewed witnesses at the landing zone.
Findings
- The skydiver was highly experienced, with a category "D" qualification and hundreds of previous jumps.
- The skiddiver was properly configured with all required equipment and was not under the influence of any prohibited substances or alcohol.
- The high-speed landing maneuver was not arrested in time due to the incorrect initiation of the 270-degree turn at too low an altitude.
- The parachute equipment and meteorological conditions were not contributing factors to the accident.