As summertime kicks into full gear and we all try to get the most out of good weather days with lots of sunshine, there are a few things that you, as a licensed skydiver, can do to help us turn as many loads in a day as possible and give you more chances to hit the skies. Check out these great ways you can help us make this one amazing summer.
1. Pre-jump prep and the loading area
As always, safety is always the primary concern, so make sure that prior to each and every load you’re manifested on, you’ve done a solid and thorough gear check with lots of time to deal with any issues you might find.
Factor in time to gather your group if needed and get that dirt-dive done, taking things like loading order, winds aloft, landing direction, spot, etc. into consideration well before the aircraft arrives.
On the 5-minute call or earlier, make sure you are 100% ready to jump, with your gear on and fitted accordingly, that way when the aircraft pulls up you are prepared. (For safety, you should never under any circumstances board the aircraft with gear not 100% ready to jump.)
2. Boarding
Climb onboard without delay in the reverse exit order that has been established prior to the aircraft’s arrival. You’ll want to take your seat right away, getting that seatbelt on and securing any helmet that you don’t intend to wear for takeoff.
Once you’re in and seated, this is a great opportunity to look around and give a good visual check of all your fellow jumpers gear, as well as glancing around the aircraft for anything that may look abnormal. If you find a problem, speak up.
3. Takeoff & Climb
Now is when the pilot gets down to business, so between brake release and the first 1,500 feet of your climb to altitude you don’t want to distract the pilot unless it’s a critical emergency. Release those seatbelts at the proper altitude (CSC requires seatbelts stay on until 1,500' AGL) and then make room as necessary so everyone is comfortable without shifting too much.
As always, have a great time on your way up, but make sure to keep an eye out for anything that may be of concern.
Handle checks, handle checks, handle checks!
4. Exit, Jump, and Landing
As you reach altitude, keep an eye out for the lights you know are coming, especially if you’re the one that’ll be opening the door. The red kicks you into gear, the yellow gets that breeze flowing, and the green has you and your group exiting with the appropriate separation.
Now that you’re out, ENJOY! Go crush that amazing skydive you’ve planned, or even have a great time when nothing goes quite as expected!
Once you’re back on the ground, well, go do it again! Just remember to follow the dropzone guidelines in regards to manifesting before/after you’re packed back up, taking all of the above into consideration when you decide if you’re shooting for one or a dozen jumps!
These quick and easy tips will help us keep things buzzing smoothly all day, helping you get the most out of your time both in the air and on the ground.
Now let’s have an amazing summer!