Why Do Some Skydivers Open Their Parachute First and Others Later?

The choice of when to open your parachute during a skydive is a complex decision influenced by various factors including the type of jump, experience level, and personal preference. While the basic principle is essential: always exit the plane before opening your parachute, the timing can significantly impact the experience and safety of the jump. Let's delve into the specifics.

Types of Jump and Deployment Timing

Not all skydivers open their parachutes at the same time. The difference largely depends on the type of jump and the desired outcomes. Here's a breakdown of why timing can vary:

Static Line Jumps

Static line jumps, often used by beginners or those learning to skydive, involve a simple and safe deployment process. The parachute is attached to the plane by a static line, which is a six-foot long cord of webbing. Upon leaving the plane, the line is taut, pulling the canopy out of its bag and deploying it. As the line detaches from the canopy via Velcro, it is quickly drawn back into the plane, ready for landing.

Relative Work (RW) Jumps

For Relative Work (RW) jumps, jumpers have the luxury of more time in freefall. These jumps are primarily for experienced skydivers who use this time to perform specific maneuvers or formations. RW jumps typically deploy the parachute around 6,000 to 4,000 feet to ensure sufficient time for the canopy to open and for the maneuvers to be executed. This timing often involves jumps from heights of 8,000 to 10,000 feet, resulting in just seconds to deploy the parachute safely.

Canopy Relative Work (CRW) Jumps

In CRW jumps, the objective is to maximize the time under the canopy. Experienced jumpers aim to open their parachutes immediately after exiting the plane to extend their time in freefall and enhance the performance of relative work maneuvers. This approach is riskier but can provide a more thrilling and extended jump experience. However, it requires a high level of skill and precise timing to ensure a safe descent.

Experience Level and Safety Considerations

The choice of deployment timing is also heavily influenced by the jumpers' experience level and the desired safety and thrill.

Novice Skydivers

Novices are often advised to open their parachutes sooner after exiting the plane to minimize risks and ensure a safe landing. The emphasis on safety is crucial for beginners who are still learning the intricacies of skydiving.

Experienced Skydivers

More experienced skydivers, known as A-teams or professionals, often enjoy the sensation of freefall and the ability to perform intricate maneuvers. They are familiar with the risks and have the necessary training to handle extended freefall times. Freefall can be as short as a few seconds or as long as several minutes, depending on the jump's complexity and the jumper's goals.

Jump Purpose and Equipment

The purpose of the jump also plays a significant role in determining when to open the parachute. For instance, fun jumps and experienced skydivers might aim to enjoy a thrilling freefall of around 3,000 to 5,000 feet before opening their parachute. In contrast, military or tactical jumps might require immediate deployment for safety or operational reasons.

Altitude awareness and equipment are paramount in any jump. Skydivers must monitor their altitude accurately and understand the limitations of their parachute system. Some systems are designed for freefall, while others are optimized for immediate deployment. Safe descent is the ultimate goal, regardless of the chosen deployment timing.

Conclusion

The choice of when to open a parachute is a multi-faceted decision that depends on the type of jump, experience level, and the specific goals of the jumpers. Each method has its unique risks and rewards, tailored to meet the skill and objectives of the skydiver. Whether opting for a quick deployment or an extended freefall, understanding the dynamics of parachute deployment is essential for ensuring a safe and enjoyable skydive experience.