Preparation and best practices for an off-landing
The world outside the aircraft door offers an incredible sense of freedom and adventure, but with that comes the responsibility of ensuring a safe return to the ground. It follows that one of the most important aspects of the sport (that’s often, somewhat strangely, overlooked) is the phenomenon of the ‘off landing’: that awkward moment when a skydiver lands outside of the designated dropzone.
Make no mistake; off landings can happen to anyone, regardless of experience level and discipline. It is crucial for every skydiver to have the skills of preventing off landings when possible, preparing for them as and when they do occur, and handling them effectively. That said, my personal apple cart, as Wingsuit TEA, is firmly within the realm of high-glide flight, and so that will certainly colour the wisdom I share here.
How to keep it inside
While off landings can be a part of the sport – perhaps especially wingsuiting, given the dynamics involved – careful preparation can significantly reduce the likelihood of landing off. Here’s how you can stack the deck in your favour.
Know your terrain
When you visit a new DZ, pay close attention to the DZ brief. Get familiar with the local area, identify safe landing spots and look for potential hazards like buildings, trees, power lines, areas of water…anything that could be unsafe. This awareness will help you to recognise what you’re looking at on the ground so you can make informed decisions in the air.
Understand wind patterns and jump runs
Achieving a thorough understanding of the jump run and wind conditions is essential. Use resources like Form 314 to assess the wind directions at different altitudes to determine the safest direction for deployment and keep yourself on-course.
Get weather-wise
Commit to making informed decisions based on the weather. One example: if visibility is poor due to clouds, you should seriously consider postponing your jump. Even a small gap in the clouds can be deceiving, especially when navigating back to the DZ. Just because the DZ is putting loads up does not mean that it’s a good idea to get on the plane. Your discipline, your skills and your willingness to spend money on an uncomfortable ’survival jump’ all figure in here.
Mind your load dynamics
Stay mindful of the other jumpers and disciplines on the load with you. Tandem jumps might take longer to exit, affecting your spot and, potentially, your flight plan. Adjust your strategy to accommodate these variables, ensuring everyone has a safe return path.
Coordinate your group
Group size, formation position and individual experience levels matter, no matter your discipline. Larger groups might necessitate a multi-stage break-off, which could place some jumpers in challenging spots for returning to the DZ. Adjust the break-off plan or formation to solve for the complications presented by less-experienced flyers, positioning them where it’s easier for them to safely return to the DZ.
Check. Your. Spot!
This may seem a little foundational, but repetition never spoiled the prayer and this 101-level skill sends parachutes into hedges every single day. Before exiting the plane, always check your spot and make sure you know where the Primary Landing Area (PLA) is in relation to the aircraft. It’s surprising how often jumpers exit without a clear idea of where the DZ or PLA is located. Familiarising yourself with your spot helps ensure you can navigate back safely and avoid off landings.
Deploy at a safe altitude
If you’re new to skydiving, to the dropzone, to your equipment or to the discipline you’re in, opt for a higher deployment altitude. This gives you more time to handle any malfunctions without veering off-course. Lower deployments reduce reaction time and increase the risk of not making it back to the DZ (among other unsavoury consequences).
Consider advanced navigation equipment
Technology like Flysight’s Flyblind capability (or AON2’s navigation feature) can be invaluable for maintaining orientation and comfort during flight, especially if you’re in a wingsuit. While not essential, these tools can offer a significant advantage: providing real-time feedback on your position and helping you make better decisions if you get disoriented.
Be prepared for the unexpected
Always carry a mobile phone with the DZ’s contact number saved. Have a plan in place for retrieval if you land off, such as arranging a pickup with a friend. Communicate with the DZ to inform them of your safe landing, but take responsibility for your return.
Embrace the adventure with caution
Off landings are a part of the skydiving experience. Sure, they can be hairy but, with careful preparation and awareness, you can minimise their occurrences and handle the situation safely. By familiarising yourself with the local terrain, understanding the wind patterns, planning your jump carefully and preparing for the unexpected, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable flying adventure.
Remember: safety always comes first – every jump, every time.
