Tributes paid to RAF parachute instructor Sergeant Rachel Fisk following death in training jump

The Royal Air Force has paid tribute to a servicewoman who died when her parachute reportedly failed to open on a training jump.

Sergeant Rachel Fisk, 32, died at RAF Weston-on-the-Green near Bicester, Oxfordshire, on September 3.

Rachel, who was known for her infectious smile and bubbly personality, served at RAF College Cranwell before being selected for instructional duties at the number one parachute training school in RAF Brize Norton.

Here, Rachel learned to instruct and deliver parachute training for the Armed Forces, feeding her passion for sports and developing her career which she loved.

In 2020, she then moved to deliver joint service adventurous training at RAF Weston-on-the-Green.

The RAF said Rachel was a selfless individual, who was eager to volunteer and reassure those around her.

They said she naturally loved her career and not only worked with professionalism and diligence, but also fun and enthusiasm spurred by her passion for what she did.

Rachel’s family said: "It is with great sadness that we mourn the death of our dear daughter, Rachel.

"She lived her life with joy and thoughtfulness for others and loved the career she had chosen.

"Rachel will be missed by so many."

Air Commodore Suraya Marshall, Commandant at RAF College Cranwell, said: “The death of Sergeant Rachel Fisk is a tragic loss, our thoughts go out to the family, friends, colleagues and the close-knit community of Weston-on-the-Green — she will be missed by us all.”

Flight Sergeant Dylan Bartle said: “Rachel brought personality to the team and was one of the most selfless individuals you could meet, constantly volunteering for tasks to allow her colleagues to spend more time with their families.

“Able to transfer her bubbly personality to her students, she consistently gave them the assurance and confidence required to complete that nervous task of jumping out of an aircraft.”

Squadron Leader Helen Simpson said: “Rachel never failed to impress with her skydiving ability and it was very clear she would go far – but it is her personality, her humour and her huge heart that will be sorely missed by all of us at Weston on the Green.”

The RAF is said to be investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.