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Methods

There are several different methods that a first-time sky diver can use to learn how to jump safely. The methods vary in terms of cost and how quickly you can learn the necessary skills, but they all have the same basic elements.

One method for a first jump is the Static Line system. In this system the parachute is attached to the airplane frame. After you jump from the airplane, the static line opens your container and pulls up the parachute deployment bag. Since the parachute cannot get out of the deployment bag until the lines are fully stretched, this system helps you avoid getting the lines entangled with the parachute fabric. The Static Line system is less expensive than other methods, but it probably will require more time for you to learn the same skills.

Another method for a first jump is called Accelerated Freefall or AFF. With AFF, you actually jump out of an airplane at about 12,000 ft (3658 m) and free fall for about 40 seconds before you pull the ripcord to open the parachute. During the freefall you have to maintain an aerodynamic body position. To ensure that all procedures are followed correctly, two instructors hold you from the time you jump until your parachute opens. The AFF method is very reliable and allows you to learn how to sky dive much faster than the Static Line system.

A third method for a first jump is called Tandem. The benefit of this method is that almost any person can enjoy skydiving without having to attend a training course. For a Tandem jump you wear a harness that is tightly attached to the instructor’s harness. Only the instructor wears a parachute. You are actually just a passenger flying with the instructor. The instructor handles the entire flight from jump to landing. Depending on the drop zone location, the instructor may allow you to help open the parachute at the indicated altitude, maneuver the canopy, and/or assist with the landing.

Equipment

Whichever method you choose, you are sure to have a thrilling experience when you take your first jump.

Regardless of the skydiving method you choose for your first jump, there is basic equipment that you must have for a safe and successful jump. For all jumpers, there are four main pieces of equipment:

1. The harness, which holds the jumper’s body.
2. The container, which holds the main and reserve canopies. It is attached to the harness.
3. The main canopy, which is stored in the container. This is the canopy that normally opens first.
4. The reserve canopy. This canopy is similar to the main canopy, but it is used only when the main canopy fails to operate normally.

In addition to these four main elements, there are other pieces of equipment that ensure that the whole system works properly. The additional gear includes the following pieces of equipment:

• The static line and hook (static line jump only) or the main ripcord, which allows you to open the main canopy.
• The cutaway handle, which separates the main canopy from the jumper. This handle is used only when the main canopy fails to open properly. It clears the air over the jumper, so the reserve canopy can be opened without getting it entangled with the main canopy.
• The reserve handle, which opens the reserve canopy.
• Front and rear risers, which are used to steer the canopy.
• The automatic activation device (ADD). This is a barometric device that continuously analyzes the surrounding pressure to determine altitude and the rate of decent. When the altitude is lower than 984 ft (300 m) and the vertical speed exceeds 125 ft (38 m) per second, the unit fires and opens the reserve canopy.
• The altimeter, which measures your altitude during the jump.
• Head protection, which protects you in the case of a hard landing. First-time jumpers will probably use a rigid helmet. More experienced jumpers may wish to try a leather hat; it offers less protection, but more flexibility.

Before every jump you must inspect all your equipment and adjust it properly to ensure a safe landing.