There have been two fatal propeller-strike accidents involving U.S. skydiving planes in the past decade. In 2014, an aircraft was idling on the ramp waiting for jumpers to board when a DZ employee who was bringing the pilot lunch ran toward the airplane and walked into the operating propeller under the airplane’s left wing. In 2024, a low-time jumper taking photos of tandem students in a Cessna 182 disembarked the aircraft to get photographs of the next group of jumpers. As she did so, she moved in front of the wing and stepped back slightly into the spinning propeller. In both the 2014 and 2024 incidents, the person suffered fatal injuries.
USPA encourages drop zones to increase awareness of propeller safety to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. By prioritizing robust safety policies, DZs protect both employees and customers. USPA’s recently published Safety Management System (SMS) template helps DZs identify and create safety policies for high-risk aspects of the operation such as moving around spinning propellers. An SMS on propeller safety would outline each DZs requirements for clear and concise signage, mandatory safety training, communication protocols and creation of an emergency response plan.
Regular safety audits as part of SMS allow DZ operators, Safety and Training Advisors, instructors and employees to collectively review procedures, identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with safety policies. Implementing SMS creates a safer environment for employees and customers, fostering a culture of safety and responsibility. Members are encouraged to contact USPA Director of Government Relations Michael Knight at govrelations@uspa.org for assistance implementing SMS at their location.
Michael Knight D-22804
USPA Director of Government Relations