Skylane 182/RG Turbo Skylane/RG
Flight Crew Commercial
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 65; Flight Crew Total 465; Flight Crew Type 30
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Inflight Event / Encounter Other / Unknown
General None Reported / Taken
Procedure
While flying a skydiving mission; the pilot side aircraft window departed the C182 at altitude. When the passenger side door was opened (modified for skydiving operations); I believe the rapid pressure differential or airflow caused the pilot's side window frame to be pulled into the slipstream. Given the rapid opening of the pilot side window the hinges snapped and the window departed the airframe. It is believed the window landed in a forested area. In the future; I will be sure to hold the latch to the window when the cabin door is opened at altitude for skydive operations.
C182 pilot reported the pilot side window departed the aircraft in flight when the side door was opened for skydive operations.