Photographer Dies After Backing Into Airplane Propeller at Kansas Skydiving Center.

Photographer Dies After Backing Into Airplane Propeller at Kansas Skydiving Center.
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Photographer Dies After Backing Into Airplane Propeller at Kansas Skydiving Center.

Overview:

A tragic accident occurred on October 26, 2024, at the Air Capital Drop Zone in Derby, Kansas, when 37-year-old photographer Amanda Gallagher died after accidentally backing into a spinning airplane propeller while taking photos of skydivers. The incident has shocked the local community and raised questions about safety procedures at airfields.

The Incident:

Gallagher, a professional photographer from Wichita, Kansas, was at the Air Capital Drop Zone to capture images of skydivers. After the airplane landed, she moved in front of the wing to take photos, a violation of basic safety procedures. For unknown reasons, she stepped back slightly, moving toward and into the spinning propeller. First responders took Gallagher to a local medical center, where she succumbed to her injuries.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) were briefed about the incident and are conducting an investigation. The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and secured the area. The Air Capital Drop Zone issued a statement expressing condolences to Gallagher’s family and friends and emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety protocols.

Photographer Dies After Backing Into Airplane Propeller at Kansas Skydiving Center.

Gallagher was known for her adventurous spirit and creative photography. Tributes poured in from friends, family, and the skydiving community, describing her as kind, adventurous, and beautiful inside and out. A GoFundMe page was set up to help cover her funeral expenses, and it has raised nearly $15,000.

The incident has raised concerns about safety measures at airfields and the need for stricter adherence to protocols. Air Capital Drop Zone and other similar facilities are reviewing their safety procedures to prevent such accidents in the future. The community is calling for increased awareness and training to ensure the safety of photographers and other visitors at airfields.
The tragic death of Amanda Gallagher serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance in potentially dangerous environments. Her loss has deeply affected those who knew her and has prompted a review of safety practices at airfields. As the investigation continues, the focus will be on preventing similar incidents and honoring Gallagher’s memory through improved safety measures.