Skydiving is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have, but it's also an activity that requires precision, focus, and adherence to safety protocols. Whether you're a first-time jumper or a seasoned skydiver, following a step-by-step checklist from the moment you exit the aircraft to the second you touch the ground is crucial for a safe and smooth dive. This guide will walk you through the key phases of the jump, offering detailed steps for each phase to ensure you execute a flawless dive.
Pre-Jump Preparation: Getting Ready for the Dive
Before you even think about leaving the aircraft, preparation is critical. This is the time to make sure you have all your equipment checked and your mental and physical state is ready for the jump.
1.1 Equipment Check
- Parachute System : Ensure your main parachute is packed correctly and the reserve chute is in good condition. Always check that your automatic activation device (AAD) is working.
- Harness and Gear: Double‑check your harness, altimeter , and helmet . The helmet should fit snugly, and your altimeter should be set and easily visible during freefall.
- Wingsuit (if applicable): If you're jumping with a wingsuit, make sure all the zippers are secure and that your wingsuit is properly fitted.
1.2 Mental Preparation
- Focus on the Task : Clear your mind of distractions. Take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves and visualize the dive.
- Review the Dive Plan : Go over your plan with your instructor or jump crew. Know the exit altitude, freefall time, deployment altitude, and landing zone.
- Check the Weather : Ensure the conditions are safe for jumping. This includes wind speed, cloud cover, and visibility.
Exit from the Aircraft: Leaving the Safety of the Plane
The exit from the aircraft is the first critical step in the dive. A smooth exit sets the tone for the rest of the jump, so it's essential to follow proper technique.
2.1 Positioning at the Door
- Secure Yourself : If you're tandem jumping, make sure you're in the correct position relative to your instructor. If you're jumping solo, get into the proper exit position (arch your body, look up, and stay relaxed).
- Check Your Gear : Make a final check on your gear. Ensure that the parachute and other equipment are secure and there's no obstruction.
2.2 Exiting the Aircraft
- Timing the Exit : Once you're ready, listen to your instructor's command to exit. Typically, the exit is timed with the plane's speed and altitude to ensure a safe freefall.
- Proper Exit Technique :
Freefall: Thrill of the Descent
The freefall phase of skydiving is where you experience the full thrill of the sport. However, it's also a time when you must focus on body control and situational awareness.
3.1 Body Position
- Arch Your Body : To maintain stability during freefall, always arch your body. This increases the surface area for air resistance, helping to slow your descent and keep you stable.
- Hands and Legs : Keep your arms slightly bent and your legs shoulder‑width apart. If you're in a tandem jump, your instructor will guide you.
3.2 Altitude Awareness
- Monitor Your Altimeter : Always keep an eye on your altimeter to track your descent. Pay close attention to key altitudes: break‑off altitude (for group jumps), deployment altitude, and minimum pull altitude.
- Check Your Body Position : During freefall, adjust your body position if necessary to maintain control. In case of instability, make small adjustments with your limbs to regain control.
3.3 Fall Rate and Speed
- Normal Freefall Speed : At a typical altitude of around 12,000 feet (3,650 meters), you will fall at a speed of approximately 120 miles per hour (193 km/h). Maintain a stable body position to avoid unnecessary speed increases or instability.
Deployment: Opening the Parachute
At a pre‑determined altitude, it's time to deploy your parachute. The deployment phase is one of the most critical moments in your skydive, as it ensures you transition from freefall to canopy flight.
4.1 Prepare to Pull
- Check Your Altitude : As you approach your deployment altitude (typically between 2,500--3,000 feet for solo jumpers), make sure you're stable and in the correct position.
- Clear Airspace : Ensure there is no one directly below or above you before pulling the ripcord.
4.2 Pulling the Ripcord
- Deploy the Main Parachute : With a firm grip, pull the ripcord or activate the automatic activation device (AAD) , depending on your experience level and equipment. Ensure that the parachute deploys smoothly.
- Check for Proper Deployment : After deployment, look up to check that the canopy has opened correctly. If it is a proper deployment, you should see the parachute canopy fully inflated.
4.3 Dealing with Malfunctions
- Listen for a Cutaway Command (if Tandem) : If you're jumping tandem , your instructor will handle the cutaway in case of a malfunction. As a solo jumper, be prepared to perform a cutaway if your main parachute malfunctions.
- Action Plan : If your canopy does not open correctly or shows signs of malfunction (e.g., line twists, partial opening), immediately follow your emergency procedures to cut away and deploy the reserve parachute.
Canopy Flight: Steering and Maneuvering
Once your parachute is deployed and you're floating safely under the canopy, it's time to focus on controlling your descent and preparing for landing.
5.1 Steering
- Check Your Canopy : Assess the shape and integrity of the parachute. If you notice any issues, take corrective action immediately.
- Control the Canopy : Use the steering toggles to control the direction of your descent. Keep your body in the correct position to control the speed and direction of the parachute.
5.2 Navigating to the Landing Zone
- Plan Your Landing: Always have a clear idea of your landing zone. Ensure you're drifting toward it by adjusting the toggles as needed.
- Adjust for Wind : If the wind is strong, be prepared to make more significant adjustments to reach your landing zone safely.
Landing: Touchdown
Landing is one of the most critical parts of skydiving, and it requires skill and awareness to ensure a smooth touchdown.
6.1 Prepare for Landing
- Check Your Altitude: As you get closer to the ground, keep checking your altitude and adjust your flight path to approach your landing zone.
- Feet Together : As you approach the ground, bring your feet together and raise your knees slightly to prepare for a soft landing.
6.2 Execute the Landing
- Flare the Canopy : At about 10--15 feet (3--5 meters) above the ground, pull down on both toggles evenly to slow your descent. This is known as flaring the canopy.
- Landing Techniques : Aim for a "standing" landing if possible. For solo jumpers, this means keeping your feet under you as you land. For tandem jumpers, your instructor will guide the landing.
6.3 Touchdown
- Roll With the Landing : In case of a hard landing, try to roll as you land to dissipate the impact and reduce the risk of injury.
- Post‑Landing Check : Once on the ground, release the toggles and unbuckle your harness carefully.
Conclusion
Skydiving is an incredible experience, but it requires precise execution from the moment you exit the aircraft until you land safely. Following this step‑by‑step checklist ensures that you cover all the critical aspects of a jump, enhancing both safety and enjoyment. Whether you are a novice or an experienced skydiver, always remember that preparation, focus, and adherence to protocols are key to a successful and smooth dive.