Skydiver Survives Mid-Air Ordeal After Parachute Snags on Plane Tail in Queensland

A skydiver survived a terrifying incident over Far North Queensland. His reserve parachute accidentally deployed and snagged on the aircraft’s tail. The event occurred on September 20, 2025, near Tully Airport. The pilot battled for control as the skydiver dangled thousands of feet in the air.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) confirmed the details. Video footage captured the entire emergency. The skydiver’s quick thinking ultimately led to a safe landing.

Pilot Fights for Control as Skydiver Hangs On

According to the ATSB report, the Cessna Caravan was carrying 17 parachutists. The pilot slowed the plane and extended flaps for the jump run. As the first skydiver exited, his reserve parachute handle snagged.

The chute fired prematurely, dragging him backward. His legs struck the aircraft’s left horizontal stabilizer, causing severe damage. The parachute then wrapped completely around the tailplane.

This created sudden and severe drag on the aircraft. The pilot felt the plane pitch up violently. Airspeed dropped rapidly, creating a near-stall condition.

Quick Action Prevents a Tragedy

Thirteen other skydivers immediately jumped clear of the troubled aircraft. Two remained in the doorway to assist the trapped man. Dangling beneath the tail, the skydiver faced a critical decision.

He managed to pull out a specialized hook knife. He then cut 11 lines from his entangled reserve canopy. This action tore the fabric enough for him to break free.

Once clear, he deployed his main parachute. He descended safely alongside the other jumpers. The ATSB confirmed the skydiver sustained only minor injuries from the ordeal.

The pilot, once aware of the situation, reduced power to manage the drag. This action helped stabilize the damaged aircraft. The plane later landed safely at Tully Airport.

This harrowing escape underscores the critical importance of emergency training and presence of mind in extreme sports. The skydiver’s ability to act under extreme pressure averted a fatal disaster during the mid-air entanglement.

Thought you’d like to know

What caused the parachute to deploy early?

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau stated the skydiver’s reserve parachute handle snagged during exit. This accidental deployment happened as he was climbing out of the aircraft door, dragging him backward instantly.

How did the skydiver get free?

The trapped skydiver used a hook knife to cut himself loose. He severed 11 lines from his reserve canopy, which allowed him to break away from the aircraft’s tail before deploying his main parachute.

Was the pilot or anyone else injured?

Only the trapped skydiver sustained injuries, and they were reported as minor. The pilot regained control of the aircraft, and all other skydivers landed safely without physical harm.

What damage did the plane sustain?

The skydiver’s legs struck the left horizontal stabilizer, causing severe damage. The force of the entanglement and the wrapped parachute also impacted the tailplane structure of the Cessna Caravan.

Has this type of incident happened before?

While rare, similar incidents of entanglement have occurred in skydiving history. They highlight the inherent risks of the sport and the vital need for strict safety protocols and emergency preparedness.