The accident unfolded around 10 AM on September 20, when 16 expert skydivers were scheduled to perform a mid-air chain formation. As the first jumper moved toward the aircraft’s roller door, his reserve parachute deployed accidentally after his foot struck the plane’s wing flap. The sudden pull dragged him backward, causing the parachute cords to tangle in the aircraft’s tail section and leaving him suspended beneath the plane.
The skydiver quickly cut all 11 lines of the reserve parachute to free himself. He then deployed his main parachute and landed safely, sustaining only minor injuries. The incident also briefly destabilized the aircraft, prompting the pilot to issue a mayday call and prepare for an emergency exit. The plane regained stability after the skydiver freed himself and landed safely.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) reviewed video footage of the incident, noting that the sudden entanglement caused the plane’s speed to drop sharply. The skydiver’s leg struck the left stabilizer, slightly damaging the tail section of the aircraft. No other participants were injured.
Following the accident, the North Free-Fall Club has revised its safety protocols, including mandating hook knives for all skydivers. Authorities have also urged increased caution during aircraft exits and careful handling of parachute deployment mechanisms.
Event organizers highlighted that the incident, though dramatic, underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and safety measures in high-risk aerial sports. Investigations into the technical aspects of the parachute deployment are ongoing to prevent similar occurrences in future skydiving events.
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