Overview
- Investigators confirmed a 20 September formation jump over Tully turned critical when a reserve-parachute handle snagged a Cessna Caravan’s wing flap, triggering an unintended deployment that pulled a skydiver toward the tail at about 15,000 feet.
- Hanging outside the aircraft, the jumper used a personal hook knife to cut 11 lines, freed himself, deployed his main canopy and landed with minor leg injuries.
- The pilot declared a mayday, 13 jumpers exited to reduce load, two remained on board, and the damaged aircraft was landed safely at Tully Airport.
- ATSB released images and video with the final report, which found the aircraft’s emergency knives were not positioned for ready access and noted the critical role of the skydiver’s own tool.
- Inspectors identified pre-flight weight-and-balance calculation deficiencies that were not causal in this event, and industry groups are considering reinforced guidance on carrying accessible cutting tools during formation jumps.