What happened
On July 14, 2013, a group of eleven skydivers traveled from Broumov to Jihlava Airport (LKJI) aboard an An-2 aircraft, registration OK-JII. The group had planned a joint jump upon their return to Jihlamva. During the descent from 1,200 m AGL, the skydiver in question exited the aircraft first.
As the first person in the sequence, the skydiver deployed a Velocity 96 high-performance canopy and began an approach to the landing area. To increase speed for the landing, the skydiver performed a 360-degree right-hand turn. However, during the transition from the turning arc into level flight just above the ground, the skydiver struck the terrain at high speed. The impact resulted in fatal injuries, and the skydiver passed away at the scene.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the skydiver's experience, the functionality of the parachute equipment, and the meteorological conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation established that the skydiver was a highly experienced professional (Category D) with approximately 3,800 jumps. The equipment, including the main canopy, reserve, and automatic activation device, was found to be fully functional and in compliance with all regulations.
Investigators also reviewed the weather data, which indicated a northwesterly wind of 8–12 knots. While the weather was within legal limits for skydiving, the investigation considered the potential for wind turbulence caused by nearby obstacles.
Findings
- The skydiver was highly experienced and well-acquainted with the landing area.
- The parachute equipment was in good working order and properly configured.
- The skydiver likely initiated the 360-degree turn at an inappropriate point, leading to an unexpected loss of altitude.
- The final phase of the high-speed landing maneuver may have been further complicated by wind rotors created by nearby obstacles.
- The failure to select an appropriate high-speed landing pattern due to the incorrect initiation of the 360-degree turn was the primary cause.