What happened
On May 25, 2019, at approximately 08:30 UTC, a highly experienced skydiver acting as an instructor performed a jump from an An-2 aircraft at Plzeň/Líně airport. The aircraft, registration OK-VHC, had just completed a series of jumps involving student trainees. The instructor exited the aircraft at an altitude of approximately 1,259 m AGL.
Following the deployment of the main parachute, the skydiver began a descent toward the landing area. While witnesses observed the parachute opening correctly and noted the descent was functional, the skydiver did not arrive at the designated landing zone with the rest of the group. Instead, the instructor landed near a hangar, approximately 40 meters from the control tower.
Upon discovery, the skydiver was found unconscious near the deployed main parachute. Emergency medical services arrived on the scene and performed resuscitation efforts before transporting the individual to a university hospital via helicopter. Despite medical intervention, the skydiver passed away on June 2, 2019.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the skydiver's equipment, including a Performance Designs, Inc. SPECTRE 170 parachute, the instructor's training records, and data from the audible altimeter (UATRO, serial number 17280).
Analysis of the altimeter data revealed that while the main parachute opened at 1,190 m AGL, the subsequent descent was significantly steeper and characterized by more pronounced fluctuations in vertical velocity compared to the instructor's previous jump. The descent rate increased to 15 m/s during the flight before impacting the ground at approximately 21.6 km/h. The investigation also reviewed meteorological reports, which indicated ideal conditions with light winds, and interviewed the jump coordinator and other witnesses.
Findings
- The parachute equipment, including the main and reserve parachutes and the harness, was fully functional and in compliance with all regulations.
- The meteorological conditions were favorable and did not contribute to the accident.
- The skydiver was highly experienced, holding a category D qualification, and was properly configured for the jump.
- A sudden medical indisposition likely began during the approach to the landing, impairing the skydiver's ability to steer the parachute.
- The loss of consciousness or physical control led to the inability to perform a standard landing maneuver, resulting in the hard impact.