Skydiver Dangles from Plane After Parachute Snags on Aircraft’s Tail at 15,000 Feet: See the Terrifying Video

Skydiver Hangs from Plane As Parachute Snags on Aircraft’s Tail

A dramatic incident unfolded in the skies over Far North Queensland, Australia, as a skydiver found themselves dangling from the underside of a plane after their reserve parachute became entangled with the aircraft’s tail. The heart-stopping moment was captured on camera and has since garnered widespread attention.

The harrowing event took place on September 20 near Tully Airport, when a Cessna Caravan carrying 17 parachutists, along with a pilot hired by the Far North Freefall Club (FNFF), took off for a formation jump run at an altitude of 15,000 feet. The jump was supposed to be filmed by a parachuting camera operator as part of the planned activity.

According to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), the incident occurred when the first parachutist’s reserve parachute handle got caught on the wing flap while they were exiting the aircraft, causing the parachute to deploy unexpectedly. This sudden deployment propelled the parachutist backward, leading to a collision with the aircraft’s left horizontal stabilizer, causing significant damage.

Subsequently, the parachutist’s parachute became entangled with the aircraft’s tail, leaving them suspended beneath the plane. The pilot, feeling an abrupt shift in the aircraft, initially believed it had stalled and took corrective actions before realizing the gravity of the situation. As the events unfolded, two parachutists remained on the aircraft while the others managed to exit safely, with one using a hook knife to sever the tangled parachute lines, eventually freeing themselves.

During the daring descent, the parachutist successfully cut themselves loose from the tangled reserve parachute, enabling them to deploy the main parachute and land safely with minor injuries. ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell commended the quick thinking and actions of the parachutist, noting the importance of carrying a hook knife for emergency situations during jumps.

The pilot, facing challenges with the damaged tailplane, skillfully navigated the aircraft to a safe landing, despite the limited control capabilities. An investigation revealed that the aircraft had not been loaded within its weight and balance limits, although this did not directly contribute to the incident.

The ATSB’s thorough investigation shed light on the sequence of events and highlighted safety measures for parachutists and pilots alike. The agency underscored the significance of proper equipment and procedures to mitigate risks during skydiving activities. Responding to inquiries, the ATSB and the Far North Freefall Club are yet to provide further updates or comments on the incident.

This gripping tale serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with extreme sports like skydiving and the critical importance of adherence to safety protocols. The resilience and quick actions of the individuals involved undoubtedly averted a potential tragedy, underscoring the significance of preparedness and vigilance in high-intensity airborne activities.