Australian Skydiver Survives After Reserve Parachute Deploys and Snags on Airplane Tail
SYDNEY, Australia — A skydiver experienced a terrifying ordeal in September when his reserve parachute accidentally deployed and became entangled on the tail of the aircraft from which he had just jumped. According to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), the reserve handle snagged on the plane’s flap, causing the parachute to deploy prematurely and leaving the skydiver suspended beneath the tailplane as the aircraft continued to fly.
Video footage released by the ATSB shows the moment the reserve parachute unfurled and wrapped around the left horizontal stabilizer and elevator of the plane. The skydiver’s lower legs struck the stabilizer, and he was left dangling in midair, tethered to the aircraft by the malfunctioning chute. Demonstrating remarkable composure and presence of mind, the individual used a hook knife to cut the parachute lines, which then tore and freed him from the airplane with part of the reserve parachute remaining attached to the tail.
After breaking free, the skydiver deployed his main parachute, although complications arose when the remaining reserve parachute lines twisted around the main parachute lines. The ATSB report detailed that during the opening sequence, the right brake toggle of the main parachute released, causing the canopy to initially turn right before commencing a rapid left turn. The skydiver managed to arrest the turn by pulling on the right brake line and successfully unwound the line twists, restoring normal function to the main parachute for the remainder of the descent.
The pilot of the damaged aircraft was able to land safely, and the skydiver touched down approximately nine seconds later with only minor lacerations and bruising. The incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and quick decision-making in skydiving, a sport that inherently carries risks despite rigorous safety protocols.
The ATSB’s investigation into the incident underscores the potential hazards associated with parachute deployment systems and aircraft configurations. The bureau continues to provide safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar occurrences in the future. For more information on aviation safety and skydiving regulations, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Australian Parachute Federation offer extensive resources.
This rare and harrowing event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of aerial sports and the critical role of safety equipment and training. The skydiver’s survival and the pilot’s successful landing are testaments to their skill and calm under pressure. Further details and updates on the investigation can be found through official channels such as the ATSB’s investigation reports.
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