RAF airman who ‘broke his back after boss encouraged him to leap from 50ft sea cliff’ is suing MoD for £500k

RAF airman Ciaran Macmillan is suing the Ministry of Defence for £500,000, saying a superior encouraged him to jump from a 50-foot sea cliff in Cyprus in 2021. He alleges the RAF failed to assess the risks or warn personnel, and says his injuries have left him unable to serve on active duty.

Macmillan first jumped from a lower ledge before climbing higher, according to his barrister. He fractured his lower spine, underwent surgery with screws and rods, and has lasting mobility and sensory problems. The MoD denies liability, arguing he was off duty, understood the risks and chose to jump; the claim is due to go to trial at a later date.