Skydiving is a sport that combines exhilarating freefall, the mastery of complex maneuvers, and precise timing---all while relying on sophisticated equipment. However, to truly understand the nuances of skydiving, one must also learn the language of the sky. Whether you're a first‑time jumper or a seasoned pro, mastering skydiving terminology is crucial for safety, communication, and overall enjoyment.
In this article, we will dive into essential skydiving vocabulary that every drop‑zone enthusiast should know. From the moment you board the plane to the seconds before landing, understanding these terms can enhance your experience, boost your safety awareness, and help you engage more effectively with fellow skydivers.
Pre‑Jump Terms: Preparing for the Adventure
1.1 Drop Zone (DZ)
The Drop Zone (DZ) refers to the designated area where skydivers land after their jump. It is marked on the ground and carefully managed to ensure that it is clear of obstacles and suitable for safe landings. The DZ is a critical part of any skydiving operation and is often equipped with services like packing areas, briefing rooms, and even a cozy spot to relax after the jump.
1.2 Altitude (Alt)
Altitude is a fundamental term in skydiving, as it defines the height at which the skydiver is located during various stages of the jump. Altitude is often referenced throughout the skydive:
- Exit altitude is the height at which the aircraft door opens.
- Deployment altitude refers to the height at which the parachute is deployed, usually around 3,000 to 5,000 feet.
- Pull altitude is the altitude at which the skydiver pulls their parachute handle, typically between 2,500 and 5,000 feet depending on the type of jump.
1.3 Tandem
A Tandem jump is a type of skydiving experience where a beginner is strapped to an experienced instructor during the jump. This is the most common type of jump for first‑timers. The instructor handles the parachute deployment and controls the jump, while the student enjoys the thrill of freefall without needing to worry about the technical aspects.
1.4 Manifest
The Manifest is the list or system used to track skydivers for each jump. It includes important details such as the number of jumpers, their experience level, the type of jump being performed, and the assigned aircraft. Every skydiver is usually required to check in at the manifest before their jump.
Freefall Terminology: The Thrill of the Descent
2.1 Freefall
Freefall is the period during which a skydiver descends unassisted after leaving the aircraft, before opening their parachute. During freefall, skydivers reach speeds of up to 120 mph (193 km/h), depending on their body position. The thrill of freefall is one of the main attractions of skydiving, and it is also where most of the technical skydiving skills come into play.
2.2 Terminal Velocity
Terminal Velocity is the constant speed a skydiver reaches when the force of gravity pulling them downward is balanced by the air resistance pushing up against them. At this point, the skydiver stops accelerating and continues to fall at a constant speed---usually around 120 mph in a belly‑to‑earth position.
2.3 Arch
The term arch refers to the body position skydivers use during freefall to maintain stability and control. By arching their back and spreading their arms and legs, they increase their surface area to maximize air resistance, which slows their fall and helps them stabilize in the sky. The arch is critical for maintaining control during the jump.
2.4 Tracking
Tracking is the technique used by skydivers to move horizontally through the sky during freefall. Skydivers use specific body positions to create lift and move in a direction, typically to get away from other jumpers or to cover more horizontal distance. Tracking requires precise body control and awareness, as it allows jumpers to separate themselves from others and even land in a specific area.
2.5 Breakoff
The breakoff is the point during freefall when jumpers in a group or formation decide to separate in preparation for deploying their parachutes. This is usually done at an agreed‑upon altitude to ensure everyone has enough time to safely deploy their parachute and avoid collisions. Breakoff is a critical skill in formation skydiving.
Parachute Deployment: Transition to Canopy Control
3.1 Pulling the Handle
Pulling the handle refers to the action of deploying the parachute by pulling the ripcord or handle that releases the main canopy. This step is critical, and the timing must be precise. Most skydivers pull the handle at a predetermined altitude, depending on their experience and the type of jump.
3.2 Main Canopy
The main canopy is the primary parachute that opens after the skydiver pulls the handle. It's designed to slow the descent and provide control for the landing. The main canopy is typically square or elliptical in shape, offering greater stability and maneuverability than older round canopies.
3.3 Automatic Activation Device (AAD)
Automatic Activation Device (AAD)
An AAD is a safety device installed in the rig (the skydiver's equipment) that automatically deploys the reserve parachute if the skydiver has not deployed their main canopy by a certain altitude. The AAD is a crucial backup safety feature in case the skydiver is incapacitated or fails to deploy the parachute manually.
3.4 Cutaway
The cutaway is an emergency procedure used if the main parachute malfunctions and needs to be jettisoned. The skydiver releases the malfunctioning main canopy, and the reserve parachute is deployed. The cutaway is one of the most crucial safety maneuvers in skydiving, and every skydiver practices it during training.
3.5 Slider
The slider is a piece of equipment that slows down the opening of the parachute by restricting the initial deployment speed. It is usually made of fabric and sits atop the parachute, and it is removed or adjusted in certain advanced jumps to allow for faster or slower deployments.
Canopy Control: Precision Flying
4.1 Flaring
Flaring refers to the action of pulling down on the brake toggles to slow the canopy's descent, especially just before landing. This maneuver is done to soften the landing and reduce the risk of injury. Proper flaring technique is essential for skydivers, as it helps them land safely and smoothly.
4.2 Swooping
Swooping is an advanced canopy maneuver that involves diving the parachute toward the ground at high speed and then pulling up at the last moment to gain control for a soft landing. It is a skill that requires a high level of experience and control, and it is often performed in the sport of performance parachuting.
4.3 Crosswind Landing
A crosswind landing occurs when the wind is blowing perpendicular to the landing area, making it difficult for the skydiver to land directly into the wind. Skydivers use specialized techniques to handle crosswind landings, adjusting their body position and flight path to ensure a safe touchdown.
4.4 Landing Pattern
The landing pattern is the flight path that a skydiver follows before landing. It is designed to ensure that the skydiver approaches the landing area in a controlled manner, adjusting for wind direction and other factors. Skydivers are trained to recognize and adapt to the conditions they face in the landing pattern.
Post‑Jump: Wrapping Up the Adventure
5.1 Packing
Packing refers to the process of folding and preparing the parachute for the next jump. After each skydive, the parachute must be carefully packed to ensure it will deploy correctly on the next jump. Skydivers often have a packing schedule to maintain the reliability of their equipment.
5.2 Debriefing
The debriefing is an important part of the skydiving process, especially for those jumping in a group or performing advanced maneuvers. After landing, jumpers gather to discuss what went well, what could be improved, and any safety concerns. Debriefings help skydivers learn from each experience and enhance their skills for future jumps.
Conclusion
Skydiving is a complex and dynamic sport, where safety and precision are paramount. By understanding the terminology that governs each stage of a skydive, enthusiasts can engage more fully with the community, improve their skills, and ensure their safety.
From the moment the jump starts at the drop zone to the final landing, each term serves a purpose, helping skydivers communicate effectively in the high‑pressure environment of freefall. Whether you're preparing for your first tandem jump or you're refining your skills for advanced maneuvers, the language of skydiving is a vital tool in making each dive a successful and thrilling experience.