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ATSB Report, Viral Video Detail Skydiver’s Escape After Reserve Snag at 15,000 Feet

ATSB findings spotlight the lifesaving role of accessible cutting tools.

Overview

  • The investigation confirms a reserve handle caught on a Cessna Caravan flap, deploying the reserve and dragging the jumper to the tail over Tully, Queensland.
  • The suspended skydiver used a hook knife to cut eleven lines, freed himself, deployed his main chute, and landed with minor leg injuries.
  • The pilot declared a mayday, reduced power to stabilize the aircraft, and landed safely at Tully despite damage to the left horizontal stabilizer.
  • Thirteen of the 17 parachutists exited to reduce load while two remained aboard to assist as the incident unfolded.
  • The ATSB released official footage that went viral, highlighted inaccessible emergency cutting tools and weight‑and‑balance errors, and clubs began updating procedures in response.