Australian Skydiver Dangles From Plane After Parachute Snags At 15,000 Feet

An Australian skydiver dangled from a plane’s tail after their reserve parachute snagged during a jump on September 20th near Tully Airport in Far North Queensland. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau reported the incident occurred when the parachutist’s reserve handle caught on a wing flap while exiting a Cessna Caravan at 15,000 feet. The deployed chute wrapped around the aircraft’s horizontal stabilizer, suspending the jumper beneath the plane. The skydiver used a hook knife to cut 11 parachute lines, freeing themselves before falling into freefall. They successfully deployed their main parachute and landed safely with minor injuries. The pilot declared a Mayday but also landed safely despite substantial damage to the aircraft’s tail section. (Story URL)

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