Tragic Death of Experienced Skydiver at Dunkeswell Aerodrome

Chas McNeil, a 49-year-old skydiver with over 10,000 jumps, died during a wingsuit jump at Dunkeswell Aerodrome in Devon, UK, on February 28, 2026. Emergency services responded to reports of a seriously injured skydiver around 1 p.m., but McNeil was pronounced dead at the scene. He was using personal parachute equipment and an advanced wingsuit while jumping with a friend. The incident has prompted an investigation by British Skydiving and local authorities.

New York PostSkydiver Dies Less Than a Year at Same Airfield that Two Others Died AtPro skydiver dies at Devon airfieldDaily Mail

Dunkeswell Aerodrome has a history of skydiving incidents, with McNeil's death marking the third fatality at the site in less than a year. In June 2025, two individuals, Belinda Taylor, 48, and instructor Adam Harrison, 30, died when their parachutes failed to open during a tandem jump. The aerodrome, originally established as a US Navy base during World War II, has since transitioned to civilian use, primarily for skydiving activities.

New York Post

Skydive South West, the organization operating at Dunkeswell, expressed deep sorrow over McNeil's death, emphasizing the close-knit nature of the skydiving community. They stated, "Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with their family, friends, and the wider skydiving community at this incredibly difficult time." British Skydiving confirmed the incident and announced that a Board of Inquiry would investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, reiterating their condolences to those affected.

Skydiver Dies Less Than a Year at Same Airfield that Two Others Died AtNew York PostPro skydiver dies at Devon airfieldDaily Mail

While the skydiving community has rallied in support of McNeil's family, there are concerns regarding safety protocols at Dunkeswell Aerodrome. The repeated fatalities have raised questions about the operational safety measures in place, prompting calls for a thorough review of safety practices within the organization and the aerodrome itself.

New York Post

Reports indicate that McNeil was an experienced skydiver, yet the exact circumstances leading to the accident remain unclear. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have urged the public to refrain from speculation until all facts are established. The previous incidents at Dunkeswell, including the deaths of Taylor and Harrison, have also drawn scrutiny regarding the safety of skydiving operations at the site.

Skydiver Dies Less Than a Year at Same Airfield that Two Others Died At

• “Skydiver Dies They continued, "Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with their family, friends, and the wider skydiving community at this incredibly difficult time.” — Skydive South West

Skydiver Dies Less Than a Year at Same Airfield that Two Others Died At

• “A British Skydiving Board of Inquiry will now be convened to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident,” — British Skydiving

New York Post

• “As a small, family-run drop zone, this loss has affected us profoundly and personally.” — Skydive South West

Skydiver Dies Less Than a Year at Same Airfield that Two Others Died At

The tragic death of Chas McNeil has once again highlighted the risks associated with extreme sports and the importance of stringent safety measures in ensuring the well-being of participants.

Daily Mail