Gradual Freefall Program

Introduction

The Gradual Freefall program is used where the Progressive Freefall program is not taught. It represents a "gradual" transition to freefall skydiving.

 

Freefall Progression

STAGE

TASK

MINIMUM STANDARD
Pre-level 2 x IAD Correct Arch, Stable Spread, Head Up, Eye Contact
     
Pre-level 2 x IAD w/TPCT Correct TPCT Sequence, Identify Hand Signal from IA, First Freefall briefing after Jump
L1 (Stage 1)

1 x 3 Second Delay First Freefall

 Correct Arch, Stable Spread, Head Up, awareness, Real Pilot Chute Toss, Minor Heading Drift OK
L2 (Stage 1) 1 x 5 Second Delay Same as previous
     
L3 (Stage 2) 1 x 10 Second Delay On Heading, Stop Turn if on starts, move to Box position > 4 seconds
     
L4 (Stage 2) 2 x 15 Second Delay Observation Circle, Activation @ 3,500', prove terminal velocity, altitude awareness with altimeter & task
     
L5 (Stage 3) 2 x 20 Second Delay Start a Turn (90) and stop, regular altimeter checks, hand wave off and deploy @ 3,500', altitude awareness, smooth freefall
     
L6 (Stage 4) 2 x 30 Second Delay Figure Eight - 180/360 Turns

Notes:

  • Don't forget other areas of the Skills Grid must be taught.
  • Blend in spotting and canopy control
  • Exit to Stage 4 of the Basic Skills Grid for turn refinement
  • Progression = Permission of IA + Permission of Student

Spotting Progression

Spotting training can begin by the time the student is performing their second or third jump.

A student will need to know how to spot for the Solo Checkout Jump Endorsement and Solo Certificate accuracy requirements. The accuracy must be done on self spotted jumps.

The sequence is:

  • Observe spotting
  • Assisted
    • communicate corrections to pilot from Jumpmaster
    • spot, know exit point, target, and jump run from Jumpmaster
  • Self
    • spot using WDI

Do not allow major deviations (greater than 30 degrees) of jump run for safety reasons. Minor deviations are okay as it helps the student to learn.

Canopy Progression

Gradual progression of the student in Canopy Control will move the responsibility from the Ground Controller (IA) to that of the student.

The IA can break up the control into 3 areas:

  • canopy turning
  • landing approach
  • flare

Each jump the student is given more responsibility for their actions.

An example of progression may be:

  • Jump 1 - ground has full control
  • Jump 2 - let student do canopy turning, ground controls approach and flare
  • Jump 3 - let student do canopy turning and partial approach (requires altimeter), ground does lower approach and flare

The student assumes full responsibility for guidance according to PIM 1, Technical Recommendation 3.13 "Guidance will cease at the discretion of the Instructor"

First Freefall

Prior to first freefall a student must demonstrate the following skills:

  • good stable body position
  • proper pull technique
  • good awareness

The freefall briefing should cover:

  • student must pull
  • exit count
  • malfunctions
  • unusuals - pilot chute wrapped around hand or can't be found
  • sensations
  • opening delay
  • body position
  • altitude before stability
  • practical testing of unusuals

Solo Certificate

When Level 6 of this program has been completed, the student's goals can be refocused to making up the remaining requirements for the Solo Certificate.