Additional Coverage:
- Skydiver survives after reserve parachute accidentally deploys, leaving him dangling from flying airplane (foxnews.com)
Talk about a close shave! An Australian skydiver recently experienced every thrill-seeker’s worst nightmare when his reserve parachute accidentally deployed and got tangled on the tail of an airplane mid-flight. But in a stunning turn of events, he managed to survive the harrowing ordeal.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) detailed the incident, which occurred back in September. Apparently, the reserve handle snagged on the aircraft’s flap, causing the parachute to deploy unexpectedly. Video footage of the terrifying moments shows the skydiver flying into the plane’s tail and then dangling precariously as the chute became firmly stuck.
The ATSB report explains that the reserve parachute wrapped itself around the left horizontal stabilizer and elevator, deflating as the skydiver’s lower legs struck the stabilizer. From there, he was left suspended beneath the tailplane.
In a display of incredible composure, the individual managed to pull out a hook knife and cut the parachute lines. The reserve parachute then tore, finally releasing him from the aircraft, though a piece of the chute remained on the plane’s tail.
Even after breaking free, his troubles weren’t over. As he deployed his main parachute, the remaining reserve lines twisted around the main lines.
Adding to the chaos, the right brake toggle of the main parachute released during the opening sequence. The main parachute inflated with line twists, initially turning right before commencing a rapid left turn.
After several rotations, the skydiver bravely grabbed and pulled on the right brake line above the twists to stop the spin. He was then able to untwist the lines and release the left brake toggle.
Passing about 8,000 feet, the main parachute lines fully unwound from the reserve lines, allowing for a normal descent.
The pilot successfully landed the damaged airplane, and the skydiver touched down just nine seconds later. Miraculously, he sustained only minor lacerations and bruising to his left lower leg, and a deep gash to his right lower leg. What a story to tell!