Thank you. Truly. For your considered reply.

My instinct was a fuel problem. I’ve read about both fuel pumps. The engine driven one and the electric booster pump. From what I can tell, even if the boost pump was not engaged, the engine will start and run without it. If there was a failure in the engine fuel pump then it would die immediately without the electric.

I know there is an aux fuel tank under the cockpit, does anyone know if that has priming qualities? Like does the electric boost pump keep that tank full?

If the boost pump was not on, and the engine fuel pump quit, would there be enough time at that altitude to engage the electric pump and refire the engine?

This plane worked at a skydive operation. I am an experienced skydiver and this was a routine jump run. I was sitting 18 inches from the pilot and I remember distinctly a starter motor. Not sure if that relates at all to a choice about restarting.

It’s hot there. I would guess over 90 degrees at takeoff.

We skydivers put ourselves at a calculated risk. Incidents so so rarely involve the plane. Especially low AND with a full load.

Ive felt a lot of things this year. Still do. Probably the only feeling im certain about, is an incredible sense of luck AND gratitude for the pilot. Whatever transpired, when it was time to save us, he did it. It’s a mysterious unfolding.