How not to jump out of a plane
Skydiving is an exhilarating experience, but as thrilling as it is, it comes with its own set of risks. One of the most critical moments in a skydive is exiting the plane. A poorly executed exit can lead to serious consequences for both the jumper and the aircraft. Here’s what you need to know to avoid the most common and dangerous mistake: hitting the plane’s stabilizer (or "pylon") with your head.
1. The Proper Way to Exit a Plane
When jumping from an aircraft, it’s essential to follow the right techniques:
Position Yourself Correctly: Before exiting, align your body with the doorframe. Ensure your head is clear of the plane’s stabilizer and your trajectory is directed away from the aircraft.
Use Controlled Movements: Avoid aggressive or sudden movements during your exit. A smooth, controlled push away from the plane reduces the risk of collision.
Listen to Instructions: If you’re a beginner, always heed the advice of your instructor. They will guide you on how to position your body and avoid critical areas of the aircraft.
2. What Happens If You Hit the Stabilizer?
Hitting the stabilizer can be dangerous for both the skydiver and the plane.
For the Skydiver: A collision with the stabilizer could result in severe injuries, including head trauma, broken bones, or even unconsciousness. Without proper protection or immediate help, this can escalate into a life-threatening situation.
For the Aircraft: The stabilizer is a crucial component for maintaining the plane’s balance and control. Any damage to it could compromise the safety of everyone onboard.
3. What If the Jumper Loses Consciousness?
If a skydiver loses consciousness after hitting the stabilizer, the risks increase dramatically. Here’s what could happen and how it can be managed:
Freefall Risks: An unconscious jumper will fall uncontrollably, potentially endangering other jumpers in their path.
Deployment Risks: Without intervention, the parachute may not deploy properly, leading to a high-speed impact.
4. How to Save an Unconscious Skydiver
Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate these dangers:
Automatic Activation Device (AAD): Most modern parachuting rigs are equipped with an AAD. This device detects when the jumper has reached a critical altitude and automatically deploys the reserve parachute. It’s a lifesaver in situations where the jumper is unable to pull their chute.
Buddy Intervention: If other jumpers notice someone in distress, they can attempt to assist by stabilizing their descent or deploying their parachute. This requires significant skill and training, as approaching another jumper in freefall is a challenging task.
Jumping out of a plane isn’t just about the adrenaline rush—it’s about doing it safely. Always prioritize proper training, listen to your instructors, and ensure you’re using reliable equipment.
Curious to see how it all works in action? Check out my YouTube video where I break down everything we’ve talked about and demonstrate the correct way to exit an aircraft safely.
