8.01 INTRODUCTION

This section includes information and training exercises intended to help a novice skydiver successfully make the transition from being a student under direct supervision to being a self-sufficient, licensed skydiver. A novice is one who is no longer under direct supervision but has not yet obtained a license. This section applies to novices who have been trained according to any USPA training method.

8.02 SCOPE

This section includes recommendations and guidelines for:

•Level 8–Post graduate training

•Level 8 A

• Level 8 B

•Safety checks and briefings

•Skydiving equipment

•Freefall relative work

•Freefall rate of descent and exit altitude tables

 

8-1.01 INTRODUCTION

Level 8 is a training program intended to develop freefall skills. These exercises are divided into two phases. In order to be successful, it is necessary to have first completed the learning objectives of the AFF or Tandem/IAF method or to have fully completed the progression of the static line or IAD training method. Completion of these exercises should result in the student being integrated into normal drop zone activities in a safe and successful manner.

This level of instruction has targeted learning objectives and exercises to accomplish those objectives, just as in first-jump formal training methods. But the actual sequence of progression is much less structured and there is the opportunity for "fun dives" which can be included at any time.

8-1.02 LEVEL 8POST GRADUATE TRAINING

A. General Learning Objectives:

1. To qualify for and receive the USPA A License.

2. To improve body control and awareness.

3. To develop basic relative work skills.

4. To improve canopy control skills.

5. To improve survival skills.

6. To inspect and pack own main canopy and
equipment.

B. These learning objectives will not only develop the skills necessary to enjoy skydiving but they also serve as goals to motivate the novice. The accomplishment of attainable goals contributes to the enjoyment and satisfaction which is important for long term retention.

8-1.03 LEVEL 8A

A. Targeted Learning Objectives:

1. Solo clear and pull (five second freefall)

2. Transition to own equipment

3. Aggressive hook-ups

4. Two-way sequence—five points

5. Right turn, left turn, backloop, left turn,
right turn, backloop in 18 seconds or less

6. Eight minutes of freefall time

7. Pack own main parachute

B. Procedures:

1. Solo clear and pull:

a. A novice who has not yet performed a clear and pull is trained by a JM to perform a controlled clear and pull with a freefall of approximately five seconds. The jump is made from 3,500 feet to 4,000 feet and observed by the Jumpmaster.

b. This exercise should be satisfactorily completed very soon after graduation from the AFF or IAF programs.

c. This exercise will give a novice confidence and prepare him or her for the low altitude exit and clear and pull he or she will eventually have to make.

2. Equipment transitions: reference Section 8-3.

3. Aggressive hook-ups:

a. The novice should exit without contact following a freefall coach and satisfactorily dock with him. The exit should be controlled. The coach should "lay base" and not assist with the hook-up.

b. The novice should make a series of redocks with the coach while the coach changes his or her rate of fall.

4. Two-way sequences:

a. The novice is to learn to maneuver while staying in his or her own column of air (no sliding) by practicing docking on different parts of the coach arms, legs and side. The novice practices hook-ups, side docks and back-ins.

b. The novice should be able to perform five points during a jump in order to advance to the next level.

5. Solo jumps:

a. Novices often want to make solo dives to just enjoy freefall. These jumps also afford novices the opportunity to stay "in the air" without waiting for an RW coach, other jumpers, etc. Solo dives give the novice a chance to concentrate on body position and awareness without the pressure of filling his or her slot and the worry of spoiling someone else’s jump.

b. Jumps of this nature can include a classic style series or any other sequence of individual maneuvers. It is a B License requirement to perform a full style series in 18 seconds or less.

6. Freefall time—eight minutes: Freefall time is a basic yardstick for measuring skydiving experience. A novice will accumulate most of this time working on specific training exercises but can also make less structured (low pressure) jumps to build enjoyment, confidence and experience.

7. Personal equipment: The novice should receive sufficient instruction and supervision in the proper techniques for inspecting and packing the type of equipment which he or she will be jumping. Usually an individual will purchase equipment at this stage of development. The novice should not struggle through this transition without assistance from an Instructor.

8-1.04 LEVEL 8B

A. Targeted learning objectives:

1. Launch 3-way pieces.

2. 3-way sequences—five points.

3. 15 minutes of freefall time.

4. Land at least five times within 20 meters of target center.

5. Pass the A License written test.

B. Procedures:

1. Launching exits:

a. The novice should be making 3-way jumps with at least one freefall coach; the other skydiver may also be a level 8B novice. The novice should have a thorough understanding of the procedures necessary to successfully launch a 3-way in each exit position.

b. Successfully launch the piece from each of the three positions.

2. 3-way sequences:

a. The purpose of this lesson is to further

develop freefall relative work skills.

b. The novice should continue to receive instruction until he or she can perform five points with the following sequence: Free fly the exit, star, donut, opposed wedge, murphy and repeat.

c. Freefall exercises at this level should also include no-contact formation flying.

3. Freefall time: Accumulate at least 15 minutes of freefall time before advancing to the next phase.

4. Canopy control: The novice should receive appropriate instruction and coaching in canopy control to make five landings within 20 meters of target center. He or she should be able to make a graceful stand-up landing.

5. Written exam: The novice should have enough understanding of FAA regulations and USPA Recommendations to score at least 75% on the A License test. Passing this test should complete the requirements for the A License.

8-2.01 INTRODUCTION

Initially the Jumpmaster performs these prejump safety checks and briefings. As the student progresses, he or she should begin to learn to do them himself. Through leadership and attitude, the Jumpmaster has the opportunity to foster a respect for safety which will serve the beginning skydiver well when he or she assumes sole responsibility for his or her own activities.

8-2.02 PURPOSE

This information is intended to provide the Jumpmaster and the spotter or jump leader with a reference to use as guidance in developing a personal checklist appropriate to the procedures and equipment in use at his or her drop zone. In some cases, these checks will be the principal responsibility of others the pilot, Instructor, rigger, ground crew chief, etc. But a Jumpmaster or spotter should not assume that these responsibilities have been carried out by others. Jumpmasters and spotters should review all of the items on these lists to familiarize themselves with the wide range of details which contribute to safe jumping.

8-2.03 SCOPE

This section includes checklists for:

•Aircraft preflight

•Ground crew briefing

•Pilot briefing

•Skydivers briefing

•Equipment check

•Before takeoff check

•Takeoff

•Spotting

•Jump run

•Descent and landing in aircraft

•Post jump debriefing

8-2.04 BRIEFINGS

A. Aircraft preflight: Primarily the responsibility of the pilot, but the Jumpmaster or spotter should check also:

1. Placards: in place (as required)

2. Seats: removed (as required)

3. Door stop (on wing): removed

4. Sharp objects: taped

5. Loose objects: secured

6. Step: secure, clean of oil

7. Altimeter: set

8. Notice To Airmen (NOTAM): filed and activated

9. Aircraft radio: serviceable

10. Static line attachment: secure

11. Knife: in place, accessible

12. Jumpmaster to pilot signals (larger aircraft): operational

13. Stop watch: available

14. Wind drift indicators: available

15. Seat belts: available, serviceable

16. Hand straps near door: removed

B. Ground Crew Briefing: The Jumpmaster should coordinate to ensure that everyone is in agreement:

1. Communications procedures: smoke, panels, radio, etc.

2. Wind limitations

3. Jump order

4. Control of spectators and vehicles

5. Critiques of student landings

6. Maintenance of master log

7. Setting up and maintaining target

8. Accident and first aid procedures

C. Pilot Briefing: The Jumpmaster or spotter coordinates with the pilot:

1. Jump run altitudes

2. Flight patterns

3. Communications (air to ground, Jumpmaster to pilot, FAA)

4. Aircraft attitudes (level flight, flat turns, bank limits)

5. Jump run speed and cut

6. Locking wheel brake (if applicable)
Note: This is not the parking brake.

7. Gross weight and center of gravity requirements
and limitations

8. Procedures for aircraft emergencies

9. Procedures for equipment emergencies

D. Skydivers Briefing: Conducted by the Jumpmaster or load organizer:

1. Review student log or record and plan jump

2. Exit procedures and count

3. Jump commands

4. Protection of ripcords and reserve

5. Conduct in aircraft: mental preparation
and movement

6. Seat belt off altitude: 1,500 feet or DZ policy

7. Aircraft emergency procedures

8. Equipment emergency procedures

9. Drop zone appearance and hazards (an aerial photo or map is recommended)

10. Canopy control and landing

8-2.05 CHECK LIST

A. Equipment: The responsibility of the Jumpmaster and each individual skydiver before boarding and before exiting:

1. Helmet:

a. Proper fit

b. Threaded chin strap
(snap type is not recommended)

2. Goggles or glasses:

a. Secure

b. Clean

3. Canopy releases:

a. Properly assembled

b. Maintenance performed

4. Reserve static line (RSL):

a. Hooked-up, refer to manufacturer’s
instructions

5. Chest strap:

a. Properly routed (not around harness or through ripcord handle)

b. Ejector snap fully closed

6. Instruments:

a. Check and set altimeter

b. Check that instruments do not block vision of handles

7. Practice handle or ripcord:

a. Secure in pocket

b. Housing tacked no more than three inches from pocket

8. Housing:

a. Pull upward sharply to ensure that pins cannot be extracted accidentally

b. Secured on both ends and properly routed

9. Activation device:

a. Ripcord:

1) Slide in housing to ensure freedom from pigtails or gravel

2) Check cable condition

b. Pilot chute:

1) Bridle routed correctly

2) Mesh, velcro and material in good working order

3) Pouch or pud in good working order

10. Harness adjustments:

a. Adjusted for proper fit

b. Running ends turned back and sewn

c. Friction adapters properly threaded

d. Loose ends tucked into keepers

11. Belly band:

a. Adjusted

b. Friction adapter properly threaded

12. Leg straps:

a. Not twisted

b. Snaps secured and closed or friction adapters properly threaded

c. Loose ends in keepers

13. Reserve:

a. Check proper size for jumper

b. Pin condition and seating

c. Closing loop in good condition

d. Pilot chute seated

e. Packing data card in date

f. Seal in place

g. Grasp and twist handle to check pocket condition

h. Flap closed

i. Overall appearance

14. Stiffener (if required):

a. Proper type

b. Secure mounting

c. Cover in place

15. Risers:

a. Not twisted

b. Toggles and lines not exposed

16. Main container:

a. Check overall appearance

b. Properly closed

c. Closing loop in good condition

d. Temporary pins removed

17. Static Lines:

a. Direct bag

b. Pilot chute assist in place, properly routed; assure sufficient slack to allow proper operation of static line

c. Static line properly secured and routed, not around container

18. Accessories:

a. Footwear, proper fit, type; no open hooks or buckles

b. Goggles or glasses secure

c. Protective clothing, jumpsuit pockets closed; gloves as required; no unnecessary accessories, such as cameras; empty pockets

19. Automatic activation device (AAD):

a. Checked and calibrated

b. Proper routing of cable

c. Control unit secured in proper location

d. Armed or turned on as required

20. Radio:

a. Properly secured

b. Functional (test with base station)

21. Check condition of all velcro

22. Check overall fit and appearance

B. Before Takeoff: The responsibility of the Jumpmaster or aircraft loader:

1. Pilot briefed on exit altitudes and number of passes.

2. Jumpers arranged for proper exit order.

3. Seat belts fastened prior to aircraft movement.

4. Helmets on, fastened.

C. Takeoff: Checked by the Jumpmaster or each skydiver:

1. Seat belts: Off at 1,500 feet or according to DZ
policy.

2. Student skydiver: Review techniques; point out target; observe mental and physical condition.

D. Spotting: Performed by the Jumpmaster or spotter:

1. Altitude: Check.

2. Wind drift indicator (WDI): Drop, observe and time.

3. Landing location of WDI and opening point: Advise all skydivers.

E. Jump Run: Checked by the Jumpmaster or spotter:

1. Static line: Properly secured to aircraft; properly routed (not under harness, riser, etc.).

2. Automatic activation device: Check, armed as required.

3. Radio: On.

4. Final equipment check.

5. Jump commands: Review with jumper.

6. Altimeters: Recheck with aircraft altimeter.

7. Other aircraft in area: Check for presence.

8. Check ground signals: Smoke or panels.

9. Wheel brake: Assure locked when used as step.
Note: this is not the parking brake

10. Aircraft attitude: Level flight.

11. Corrections and cut: As required.

12. Static line: Assure proper payout; "short-line" if appropriate (not appropriate with direct bag deployment).

13. Performance of jumper: Observe; time; record

14. Static line: Retrieve; disconnect; store safely before moving next jumper into ready position.

15. Shut jump door before moving next jumper.

F. Descent and Landing In Aircraft: Coordinated by the Jumpmaster or spotter:

1. Automatic activation device: Disarm.

2. Seat belt: Fasten.

3. Explain to skydivers, if appropriate, reason for descent.

G. Post Jump Debriefing: Conducted by the Jumpmaster:

1. Assist with field packing of equipment, as needed

2. Review student jump; offer encouragement and constructive criticism.

3. Fill out and sign student log and/or record card.

8-3.01 INTRODUCTION

This section provides guidance concerning the requirements and use of both parachute and accessory equipment used for skydiving. Information in this section includes:

•Federal regulations

•Equipment description

•Training procedures

•Packing

•Repairs and alterations

8-3.02 PURPOSE

A. These recommendations are intended to serve as guidelines for all users of parachute equipment and for everyone involved in the use and development of equipment and student training procedures.

B. They apply to all skydivers, regardless of experience, skill level, or type of equipment, unless the recommendation is identified as applying to students.

C. Parachutes should not be rented or loaned to persons unqualified to carry out an intended skydive or to persons of unknown ability. The use of unfamiliar (borrowed, new) equipment, without sufficient preparation, has been a factor in many fatalities.

8-3.03 FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

A. The design, maintenance and alteration of parachute equipment is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation which publishes Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). All skydivers should be familiar with the following FARs and their applicability to skydiving:

1. Part 65—Certification of parachute riggers

2. Part 91—General flight rules

3. Part 105—Parachute jumping

4. Advisory Circular 105-2C—explains in detail various areas of parachute equipment, maintenance and modifications.

B. Approval of parachutes is granted to manufacturers in the form of Technical Standard Orders (TSOs).

1. TSO C-23 is issued to parachutes that comply with the current performance standards. NAS 804 for TSO C-23b or AS-8015A for TSO C-23c.

2. These standards specify the tests that must be passed for a parachute system and its component parts to receive approval for civilian use.

C. Procedures for obtaining TSO approval for parachutes or component parts may be found in FAR Part 21.

D. Alterations to approved parachutes may be performed only by those who have been issued an FAA approval for the alteration.

1. Approval may be obtained by submitting a request and description of the alteration, to the manufacturer, or to an FAA Flight Standards District Office.

2. The following are eligible to receive alteration approval:

a. Master rigger

b. Parachute loft

c. Manufacturer with an approved quality assurance program

3. Alterations should not be performed without full documentation of FAA approval for the specific alteration.

E. The FAA requires all skydivers to wear a single harness, dual parachute pack, having at least one main parachute and one approved reserve parachute. Tandem jumps, which use a dual harness, dual pack parachute, are approved by an FAA exemption with special requirements.

F. All pilots and other occupants of a jump aircraft must wear parachutes when required by the FAA. This requirement is usually specified in the STC for the jump aircraft.

8-3.04 DEFINITIONS AND TERMINOLOGY

An understanding of the terminology used in this section, which conforms to that published in the FARs, is essential to understanding these guidelines. Terms used in this section are defined in the Glossary.

8-3.05 STUDENT EQUIPMENT

There are special considerations for equipment provided for student use.

A. Changes in type of equipment should be avoided or minimized whenever possible during student training. When changes are made, adequate transition training should be provided.

B. Student equipment should be well maintained.

C. Students should be provided with additional safety devices not usually found on equipment used by non-students.

1. From the start, a student should be taught to be self-reliant and to respond quickly to emergency situations.

2. Safety devices and features should be designed so they will be used as emergency overrides or backups only, in the event that the student does not properly perform emergency procedures.

3. Never use these features as a substitute for proper training and supervision or to give confidence to the student, but rather to give peace of mind to the Instructor by providing multiple safety backup systems.

D. An automatic activation device (AAD) is required for all students. An AAD initiates the reserve deployment sequence. The use of an AAD for activation of the reserve parachute, coupled with proper training in its use, has been shown to significantly increase the chances of surviving a malfunction.

E. A reserve static line device (RSL) connects the risers of the main parachute to the reserve ripcord assembly. It activates the reserve during a cutaway. An RSL is required for all students and recommended for experienced jumpers.

F. A ram-air main canopy is required for all students. It should be large and docile and appropriate for the student’s weight.

G. A visual altimeter is required for all students. It helps with canopy control and altitude recognition.

H. Audio altimeters should be used only after a student has demonstrated a satisfactory level of altitude awareness.

8-3.06 RESERVE PARACHUTE

A. All skydivers should use a steerable reserve canopy.

B. The FAA requires the reserve parachute assembly, including harness, container, canopy, risers, pilot chute, deployment device and ripcord, to be approved.

C. A reserve canopy should have a rate of descent that does not exceed 18 feet per second (fps). It must not exceed a rate of descent of 25 fps at sea level conditions (NAS 804). The following scale indicates the minimum size round reserve canopy recommended for use according to the weight of the skydiver:

Total Suspended   Weight  /  Recommended Canopy* High porosity flat circular

    Up to 149 lbs.      /    24'

150 to 199 lbs.     /    26'

200 lbs. and over.     /    28'

*The use of lower porosity materials can reduce the rate of descent/canopy size ratio. A canopy with a performance equivalent to the high porosity canopies may be substituted. Suspended weight is the combined weight of the jumper, his or her harness and the main.

D. For a ram-air reserve, do not exceed the maximum suspended weight specified by the manufacturer.

8-3.07 MAIN PARACHUTE

A. The main parachute is not required to be approved. However, the FAA requires all main parachute alterations to be made by a master rigger, the manufacturer or any other manufacturer with an FAA approved quality assurance program.

B. Skydivers weighing over 200 lbs. or over 35 years of age using a round main canopy should use one which provides a rate of descent less than that of a 1.1 oz. high porosity 28-foot flat circular canopy.

8-3.08 PARACHUTE HARNESS

A. The FAA requires the harness of a dual parachute assembly to be approved.

B. Reserve attachments (i.e. connector links) must be capable of withstanding a shock load of at least 3,000 lbs. (NAS-804—low speed category).

C. All harness ends must be folded over and sewn down or wrapped and sewn down to prevent the harness from unthreading through the hardware upon opening.

D. Harnesses should have canopy releases which allow for easy operation.

8-3.09 RIPCORD

A. It is desirable for the manufacturing industry to standardize the location of all operational controls.

B. A change in the location of ripcord handles should be made only after extensive ground training and followed by a familiarization jump.

C. Reserve ripcord handles should be made of metal.

D. The housing should be secured to the harness within 3" of the ripcord handle end.

E. Ripcord pins, when seated, should either be started inside the housing or clear the loop before entering the housing.

F. A ripcord cable stop should NOT be used. Fatal accidents caused by reserve entanglements with main ripcords secured in this manner have been documented.

G. Anti-wind blast handles are NOT recommended.

8-3.10 DEPLOYMENT DEVICE

A deployment device is recommended for all main and reserve canopies to reduce the opening force and to control deployment.

8-3.11 RESERVE PILOT CHUTE

The reserve system is usually designed to use a specific type of pilot chute. It should be properly seated in the container and repacked if it has shifted.

8-3.12 STATIC LINE

A. The FAA requires static line deployment to be either by:

1. Direct bag

2. Pilot chute assist

B. The direct bag is a more positive method of static line deployment because it reduces the chance of the student interfering with main canopy deployment.

C. The FAA requires an assist device to be used with static line deployment. An assist device pulls the canopy or the pilot chute out of the container.

1. The assist device must be attached at one end to the static line so that the container is opened before the device is loaded, and at the other end to the main canopy or the pilot chute.

2. The FAA requires the direct bag assist device to have a load strength of at least 56 but not more than 320 lbs.

3. The FAA requires the pilot chute assist device to have a load strength of at least 28 but not more than 160 lbs.

D. The static line should be attached with a locking slide fastener to an approved structural point of the airframe.

1. A seat belt attachment point is considered part of the airframe, but the static line should pull on it in a longitudinal direction.

2. Aircraft seats are NOT considered to be part of the airframe.

E. A static line should be constructed:

1. With a length of at least eight feet but not more than 15 feet and should never come into contact with the aircraft’s tail surfaces.

2. With a locking slide fastener ID number.

3. With webbing of not less than 3600 lbs. tensile strength.

4. With a pin assembly (when used) which will withstand a pull of 300 lbs., attached to the webbing in such a manner that the attachment and cable will withstand a pull of 600 lbs.

8-3.13 ACCESSORY EQUIPMENT

The use of personal equipment should be determined by the type of jump, experience and proficiency of the skydiver, weather and drop zone conditions.

A. Clothing and equipment:

1. Adequate protective clothing, including jumpsuit, helmet, gloves, goggles and footwear should be worn for all land jumps.

2. Gloves are essential when the jump altitude temperature is lower than 40° F.

3. A protected but accessible knife should always be carried.

4. A rigid helmet should be worn on all skydives. It should be light weight and not restrict vision or hearing.

B. Instruments:

1. A visual altimeter must be used by all students.

2. Skydivers should also know there is a great reduction of depth perception over water and at night.

3. An audio altimeter is a helpful device provided it is used as a backup to check the ground and altimeter to determine altitude.

8-3.14 TYPES OF MALFUNCTIONS

All malfunctions can be classified as one of two types:

A. Total Malfunction: Any malfunction in which nothing is deploying.

B. Partial Malfunction: Any malfunction accompanied by full or partial deployment.

8-3.15 TOTAL MALFUNCTIONS

A. Deploy the reserve parachute immediately. Do not under any circumstances take the time to cut away.

B. Cutting away will waste precious time to avoid the very low probability of the main and reserve entangling and make possible an entanglement with the released risers.

8-3.16 PARTIAL MALFUNCTIONS

Two methods of reserve deployment are recognized for partial malfunctions. In order of preference, they are:

•Cutaway (breakaway); and

•Canopy transfer.

A. The cutaway method is recommended because:

1. It is a single procedure that applies to all partial malfunctions, fast or slow.

2. Partial malfunctions are more common than totals and frequently result in spins. The rotation of the jumper beneath the canopy during reserve deployment may easily result in entanglement of the reserve and main canopies unless it is released.

3. It is necessary with high-performance main canopies, whose malfunctions often include rapid rotation.

4. It is necessary for skydivers using a piggyback reserve system.

5. The decision to cut away should be made by an altitude of 1,800 feet AGL; the cutaway should begin by 1,600 feet AGL. With high speed malfunctions, rate of descent may be 120 mph or faster, leaving seven seconds or less to take corrective action to allow time for a normal deployment.

6. LOOK at the reserve handle before cutting away and keep your eyes on it until the reserve has been pulled.

Note: Skydivers should be equipped with single-point riser releases (one handle releases both risers) for easy and rapid disengagement from the main canopy.

B. The canopy transfer method may be necessary if jumper is too low to cutaway safely. The reserve is deployed without releasing the main.

8-3.17 RESERVE STATIC LINE

All skydivers should consider using a reserve static line device (RSL):

A. This is a lanyard that is attached to a main canopy riser, which activates the reserve ripcord so that reserve deployment begins immediately and automatically after separation of the main risers from the harness.

B. Full deployment can be achieved within 100 feet after cutaway, although it may take longer.

C. An RSL may not be desirable when engaging in canopy relative work (CRW).

D. When using a reserve static line device, a cross connector should not be attached when using piggyback equipment unless the manufacturer’s instructions require one.

Important: When using a reserve static line device, the skydiver must not depend on the static line device immediately after the cutaway, manually pull the reserve ripcord.

8-3.18 TRAINING

A. Learning should begin with the first jump and continue throughout the entire jumping career.

B. Initial training, even if the student intends to make only one jump, should be designed to establish a foundation for the continuing growth and development of skills. Foresight should be used to minimize the need to change emergency procedures as a student progresses.

C. The most important skill a student must develop is the ability to cope with and respond to emergency situations:

1. Development of this skill should start with the first jump rather than at a point where supervision of jumping activities is reduced.

2. Safety is enhanced with an understanding of the importance of dealing with emergency situations promptly.

3. Failure to quickly deal with an emergency situation is the greatest cause of fatal incidents in skydiving.

D. The majority of all malfunctions can be traced to three primary causes:

1. Poor or unstable body position during parachute deployment

2. Faulty equipment

3. Improper or careless packing

E. Poor or inadequate preparation is a major factor contributing to malfunctions and the injuries and deaths that sometimes result. It is essential for a student to practice (with repeated drills) so that emergency procedures become automatic.

F. Skydiving requires the repeated practice of old techniques and proper training in new ones to be conditioned to cope with the potential emergencies of the sport.

G. At least once a year, all skydivers should practice emergency procedures. The practice should include use of a suspended harness.

8-3.19 TRAINING OUTLINE

A. The training outline listed below is recommended for all students before their first jump.

B. An Instructor should supervise and critique the jumper throughout all ground training and use a watch to assist in developing time awareness.

C. Training should consist of a demonstration and discussion, followed by practice, and should include:

1. The primary causes of malfunctions.

2. Stable freefall techniques, including exit, count, and pull.

3. Various types of malfunctions and how to recognize them from the viewpoint of the skydiver in the harness.

4. Procedures for activating and deploying the reserve parachute.

D. When practicing:

1. Wear the parachute, plus all personal equipment including helmet, goggles and gloves during at least part of the drill.

2. Go through the normal sequence of a jump (arch, look, reach and pull of the main ripcord handle)

3. Perform the emergency procedures, by the numbers, several times.

4. Go through the procedures in sequence without by-the-numbers assistance.

5. An Instructor should periodically give the command "malfunction." The student should react by going through the procedures for reserve activation.

6. Repeat steps 1 through 5 in a suspended harness trainer equipped with a reserve ripcord handle which can be actually pulled.

8-3.20 EQUIPMENT TRANSITION TRAINING

A. Change of emergency procedures:

1. If emergency procedures are changed at anytime, the skydiver should be thoroughly trained and then given supervised practice in a suspended harness until proficient.

2. This practice should be repeated at short intervals, such as before each weekend’s jump activities, until the skydiver is thoroughly familiar with the new procedures.

B. Changes in deployment procedures:

1. If deployment procedures are changed at anytime, the skydiver should be thoroughly trained and then given supervised practice in a suspended harness until proficient.

2. Ground training should be followed by a solo jump which includes several practice pulls and the actual pull at a higher than normal altitude.

8-3.21 RECURRENT TRAINING

A student or novice should repeat reserve deployment training once each month until obtaining a USPA A License. This training should include the use of a suspended harness trainer and the pull of an actual reserve ripcord while in the suspended harness.

8-3.22 PARACHUTE PACKING

A. Main: The main parachute of a dual assembly may be packed by an FAA rigger or by the skydiver who intends to use it and:

1. The individual skydiver should have the written approval of an S&TA, USPA Instructor, I/E, or an FAA certificated parachute rigger.

2. The FAA requires it to be packed within 120 days before the date of its use.

B. Reserve: The reserve parachute of a dual assembly must be packed by an FAA certificated and appropriately-rated parachute rigger. The FAA requires the reserve to be inspected and packed within 120 days before the date of its use.

C. Maintenance: All work required to be done by a certified rigger may actually be done by someone else, provided a rigger:

1. Supervises the work.

2. Takes responsibility for the work.

D. Packing: All parachute packers should know and understand the manufacturer’s instructions for packing, maintenance and use.

E. Temporary packing pins: Temporary packing pins should only be used for parachute packing when they are:

1. Individually marked with a large strip of red cloth, or:

2. Tied together and then attached to the packing table or mat.

8-3.23 REPAIRS AND ALTERATIONS

A. Inspection: The equipment owner should frequently inspect for damage and wear. Any questionable condition should be promptly corrected.

1. Repairs to the reserve assembly must be done by an FAA certificated parachute rigger.

2. Repairs to the main may be done by an FAA certificated rigger or by the owner if he or she has adequate knowledge and skill.

3. The most important reason for the reserve repack cycle is the need for a thorough inspection of the parachute system.

B. Repairs:

1. Major repairs may be performed only by or under the supervision of:

a. An FAA master rigger

b. An FAA certificated and appropriately rated parachute loft

c. The parachute manufacturer

d. Any other manufacturer the FAA considers competent

2. Minor repairs (maintenance) may be performed by those persons and facilities listed in paragraph one above or an FAA senior parachute rigger.

C. Alterations:

1. Alterations to the main parachute and the reserve parachute system must be performed only by those persons or facilities listed in paragraph B.1.

2. The main parachute and its container need not be maintained as "approved."

3. The FAA requires the entire reserve assembly to be maintained as an approved parachute.

8-4.01 INTRODUCTION

Formation Skydiving or "relative work," may be described as the intentional maneuvering of two or more skydivers in proximity to one another in freefall.

The concept of relative work is the smooth flow and grace of two or more jumpers in aerial harmony. Mid-air collisions and funneled formations are not only frowned upon but can be quite dangerous. The colliding of two bodies in flight can cause severe injuries or death. The greatest danger in relative work exists when jumpers lose sight of each other and open independently, which sets the stage for a jumper in freefall to collide with an open canopy. Even after opening, there is the possible danger of canopy collisions if proper safety procedures are not followed.

8-4.02 SCOPE

This section provides guidelines for the following:

•Qualifications

•Training

•Procedures

•Night relative work

8-4.03 QUALIFICATIONS

Before participating in relative work, the jumper should:

A. Delays: Be making controlled 30-second freefalls or be in a recognized AFF program.

B. Aerial Skills: Have demonstrated the ability to perform:

1. Both front and back loops without loss of orientation.

2. Alternating 360-degree turns.

3. Door exits.

4. Tracking, and waving off before pulling.

C. Awareness: Have demonstrated awareness of altitude and surrounding space.

8-4.04 TRAINING

A. Introduction: Initial RW training should begin as soon as the novice meets the qualifications listed above, to maintain interest in skydiving, to encourage relaxation in the air, to develop coordination, to establish participation in group activities, and to encourage the development of safe attitudes and procedures.

1. Initial RW training should begin with no more than two jumpers the trainee and an RW coach.

2. Initially, the trainee should exit first with the RW coach following to close the vertical and lateral distance at a moderate speed.

3. Emphasis in training should be on maintaining an awareness of altitude above the ground and the breakoff altitude.

B. Training Outline: The novice should receive instruction in awareness, body position, maneuvering techniques, standard procedures, and safety procedures. Each jump must be preplanned and rehearsed to gain maximum benefit. The novice should know exactly what to expect and what is expected of him. Each of the following training maneuvers should be practiced one or more times until properly performed. RW is not difficult to learn when the beginner is properly coached. The procedures outlined here should safely introduce the novice to RW.

1. First Hook-up—the trainee makes a poised exit and assumes the basic stable freefall position observing the coach. The coach should teach the novice to avoid backsliding. The coach should close slowly for an easy, clean hookup. The novice should be advised that "reaching" will cause backsliding. Separation is accomplished at 3,500 feet by releasing grips, making a 180o turn and tracking.

2. Vertical and Horizontal Maneuvers—the same exit procedure is used, but contact is not made. The coach stops about five feet in front of the novice and then proceeds to adjust his or her position with the novice following. They move up, down, right and left. The proximity of the coach allows the beginner to "relate" to something so that he or she can learn the effect of various body positions.

3. Docking Maneuvers—the same exit procedure is used, but the coach backs up about 20 feet. The novice then moves forward and docks with the coach taking grips. Repeat until break-off at 3,500 feet.

4. Aggressive hook-ups—the coach exits first and the novice dives after and docks on the coach. Practice redocking with turns or loops in between the hook- ups. At this point the novice can begin jumping with others in addition to the coach, gradually increasing the number of participants.

8-4.05 PROCEDURES

A. Preplan the jump: The movement in the aircraft, exit procedure, freefall maneuvers and breakoff altitude should be agreed upon before the jump.

B. Collisions: Jumpers on a collision course, either in freefall or under the canopy, should turn to the right. Continual awareness throughout the jump is absolutely necessary to avoid collisions. Both freefall and canopy collisions have the potential for fatal results.

C. Equipment: Both main and reserve ripcord handles should be guarded.

D. Breakoff:

1. The minimum breakoff altitude should be:

a. 3,500 feet for small groups.

b. 4,000 feet for groups of six or more.

2. At the breakoff signal or upon reaching the breakoff altitude, each participant should:

a. Turn 180-degrees from the center of the formation.

b. Flat track away; and

c. Wave-off before pulling–flat tracking will achieve more separation than diving.

E. Opening:

1. Wave-off: During the wave-off, one should look down and to the sides to insure that the area below is clear.

2. Pull: The pull should be preceded by a distinct wave-off to signal jumpers who may be above.

3. Right-of-way: The low person has the right-of-way, both in freefall and under the canopy.

 

8-4.06 NIGHT RELATIVE WORK

A. It is recommended that night relative work be planned for a full moon.

B. Participants should wear white or light colored jumpsuits.

C. Lights: The FAA requires that any parachutist making a jump between sunset and sunrise wear a light visible for at least three statute miles.

1. The light must be displayed from exit until the jumper is on the ground.

2. Strobe lights are not recommended, because they interfere with night vision. Constant lights are preferable.

D. Reference Section 9-1 – Night Jump Recommendations, for further guidance.

8-5.01 INTRODUCTION

This table is intended to provide a reference for determining typical amounts of freefall time based upon the distance covered in freefall. This reference will assist in estimating the approximate amount of freefall time to be expected from a given altitude and in logging the correct amount of freefall time for a given jump. Each skydiver should log every jump made, including the amount of freefall time experienced. The amount of freefall time logged for each jump should be "real time."

FREEFALL TIME TABLE

8-5.02 SCOPE

The chart above lists freefall times for three different terminal velocities:

•98 miles per hour

•109 miles per hour

•120 miles per hour

•Plus exit altitudes based upon a 2,500 foot opening

8-5.03 APPLICATION

A. Pull altitude and other critical altitudes should be determined by using a combination of visual reference to the ground and to an altimeter. The following procedures are recommended:

1. An altimeter should be set at zero at the intended landing site.

2. Cross check the altimeter reading with other altimeters in the aircraft at key altitudes during the climb to altitude.

3. Minor differences in indicated altitude are to be expected—do not readjust the altimeter after leaving the ground.

4. An altimeter is a delicate instrument–treat it with care.

B. Initial and refamiliarization training for altimeter use should include:

1. Look at the ground.

2. Look at the altimeter and note the altitude.

3. Repeat this procedure several times per jump to develop the ability to "eyeball" the altitude.

C. Considerations:

1. An altimeter may lag during both ascent and descent; plus or minus 0–500 feet is to be expected.

2. The needle can stick during both ascent and descent—a visual cross reference with the ground. should be used in combination with the altimeter.

3. When the altimeter is in a burble (as when falling back-to-earth), it may read high by as much as 1,000 feet.

8-5.04 COMPUTATION

A. Many factors affect the rate of fall or terminal velocity in freefall. These include the total weight of the jumper including equipment, the surface area to weight ratio (physical build), jumpsuit size and altitude above sea level (air density).

B. The preceding chart lists freefall times for three different terminal velocities and provides an exit altitude reference for 2,500 foot openings.

1. 120 mph (176 feet per second) terminal velocity: This is the "old" freefall time chart based upon the typical terminal velocity experienced when jumpers wore 45 pounds of equipment and tight jumpsuits.

2. 98 mph (144 feet per second) terminal velocity: This chart was developed when the typical jumper carried about 30 pounds of equipment and jumped a large winged jumpsuit.

3. 109 mph (160 feet per second) terminal velocity: This terminal velocity is typical of skydivers carrying 20 pounds of equipment and jumping tight jumpsuits.

C. In order to determine the approximate amount of freefall time to expect on a jump and to log a realistic amount of freefall time for a jump, use the following procedures:

1. Determine your approximate terminal velocity by taking actual measurements of jumps with known exit and opening altitudes.

2. This can be done by timing video tapes or by having someone on the ground time the skydive.

3. Subtract your opening altitude from your exit altitude to determine the length of your freefall.

4. Reference the length of freefall to the approximate terminal velocity to find freefall time.