Dramatic Rescue: Skydiver Hangs From Plane Tail After Reserve Chute Snags at 15,000 ft — Cuts Free and Survives

Heart-stopping footage released by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) shows a skydiver left dangling thousands of metres above the ground after their reserve parachute became entangled with the aircraft tail during a group jump south of Cairns in September.

What Happened

A 16-way formation planned at about 15,000 feet (4,600 metres) descended into chaos seconds after the first participant reached the plane's exit. Video captured by a parachuting camera operator shows the jumper's reserve parachute activating when its handle snagged a wing flap. The reserve canopy then wrapped around the aircraft tail, flinging the jumper backward and causing their legs to strike the fuselage.

Immediate Consequences

The falling jumper also struck the camera operator, who had been straddling the aircraft preparing to exit, knocking that person into freefall. The ATSB report did not identify the individuals involved by name, age, or gender.

Self-Rescue and Outcome

While suspended above the drop, the jumper used a hook knife to cut the reserve lines and free themselves. After separating from the tangled reserve, they deployed their main parachute and landed safely on the ground.

"Carrying a hook knife — although it is not a regulatory requirement — could be lifesaving in the event of a premature reserve parachute deployment," ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said.

Aircraft and Pilot

The aircraft's tail suffered substantial damage and the pilot experienced limited control, issuing a mayday call before managing a safe landing.

Safety Takeaways

The incident highlights the risks associated with close-proximity exits and reserve parachute deployments near the aircraft, and underscores the potential lifesaving value of simple cutting tools carried by jumpers. The ATSB has released the footage as part of its investigation to improve safety guidance for parachuting operations.