A routine skydiving flight in northern Australia turned into a life threatening emergency when a parachutist became entangled with an aircraft moments after exiting, leaving him dangling thousands of feet above the ground.
Australian investigators have now released video and details explaining how quick decisions by both the skydiver and the pilot prevented a fatal outcome.
What Happened in the Air
The incident occurred on September 20 near Tully Airport in Queensland, when a Cessna Caravan climbed to 15,000 feet for a planned group skydive. Seventeen parachutists were on board, including one assigned to film the jump.
As Adrian Ferguson exited the aircraft, the ripcord of his reserve parachute caught on part of the plane’s wing flap. The reserve chute deployed instantly and pulled him backward toward the aircraft.
Investigators say the force knocked the camera operator clear into free fall while Ferguson’s legs struck the plane’s horizontal stabilizer. The partially deployed parachute then wrapped around the aircraft’s tail, leaving Ferguson hanging beneath the plane.
A Critical Decision at High Altitude
With the aircraft still moving forward and the parachute tangled, Ferguson acted quickly. Using a hook knife, he cut through 11 suspension lines, freeing himself from the plane.
He then deployed his main parachute, which inflated successfully despite becoming partially entangled with remnants of the damaged reserve chute. Ferguson landed safely and suffered minor leg injuries, according to investigators.
Pilot Manages a Dangerous Landing
While Ferguson fell clear, part of the torn parachute remained stuck to the plane’s tail. By that point, most of the other skydivers had already jumped, leaving the pilot and two remaining parachutists on board.
The pilot issued a mayday call and prepared for the possibility of abandoning the aircraft. However, air traffic controllers determined the pilot still had enough control to attempt a landing.
The aircraft returned to Tully Airport and landed without further incident. No one else on board was injured.
Investigation Findings and Safety Lessons
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau released video footage and findings from its investigation this week. Officials emphasized that while carrying a hook knife is not legally required, it proved critical in preventing a far worse outcome.
Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said the tool could be lifesaving in rare cases of premature parachute deployment or entanglement.
More details on aviation safety investigations can be found through the Australian Transport Safety Bureau on its official website, and broader aviation safety guidance is available from Civil Aviation Safety Authority Australia.
Why This Incident Matters
Experts say the incident highlights how quickly routine skydiving operations can turn dangerous and how training, equipment, and calm decision making can save lives.
The investigation also underscores the importance of reviewing exit procedures and equipment checks, especially during large formation jumps where multiple parachutists are exiting in rapid succession.
