Skydiving is an extreme sport that involves jumping from an aircraft at a significant altitude and returning to the ground using a parachute. It includes multiple phases—free fall, parachute deployment, and controlled descent to landing. The thrill of skydiving lies in the sensation of flight, speed, and freedom experienced during the jump.
The History And Evolution of Skydiving
The concept of skydiving dates back centuries, with early attempts at parachuting in ancient China and later by Leonardo da Vinci’s designs. Modern skydiving became popular in the 20th century, both as a military tactic and as a recreational sport. Innovations in gear and training have made it safer and more accessible today.
What Is Free Fall in Skydiving?
Definition of Free Falling
Free fall is the part of skydiving when the jumper descends through the air before the parachute opens. During this phase, the body accelerates under gravity, reaching high speeds with no resistance from parachutes or support. Despite the name, there is air resistance, which prevents a constant increase in speed.
Free Fall vs. Parachute Descent
Skydiving has two clear phases. The first is the free fall. The second starts after the parachute opens. During free fall, the skydiver may reach speeds of 120 to 130 mph in a belly-to-earth position. Once the parachute deploys, speed drops significantly, usually to 10 to 15 mph, allowing for a gentle landing.
Does Skydiving Include Free Falling?
Yes, Free Falling Is a Core Part of Skydiving
Free falling is not only included in skydiving—it is the highlight. The term “skydiving” usually refers to a jump that involves a period of free fall followed by a parachute-controlled descent. The sensation of free fall offers the adrenaline rush that attracts thrill seekers to the sport.
How Long Does Free Falling Last?
The duration of free fall depends on the altitude of the jump. A typical jump from 13,000 feet gives approximately 45 to 60 seconds of free fall. Higher jumps, like HALO (High Altitude, Low Opening) jumps, can provide up to two minutes of free fall. Jumps from lower altitudes, such as 8,000 to 10,000 feet, offer shorter free fall times, around 20 to 30 seconds.
Phases of a Skydiving Jump
Boarding and Ascent
The skydiving experience begins with a plane ride. Jumpers ascend to the target altitude, often taking 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the aircraft and location. During this time, jumpers review safety protocols and prepare for the exit.
Exit and Initial Descent
The jump starts when the door opens and the skydiver exits the aircraft. This is an intense moment. For a few seconds, the skydiver transitions from horizontal flight to stable belly-to-earth free fall. The feeling is not like falling, but more like floating on air.
Free Fall Segment
During free fall, the jumper stabilizes position and enjoys unmatched views. The feeling of wind resistance is strong. The body moves fast, but there is no sensation of dropping like a roller coaster. Most jumpers describe it as exhilarating rather than frightening.
Parachute Deployment
At a predetermined altitude, usually around 5,000 feet, the parachute is deployed. The transition is quick and smooth. Once the parachute inflates, the descent slows dramatically. The jumper then steers and enjoys the descent, typically lasting 4 to 6 minutes.
Landing
The final stage is landing. Skydivers aim for a designated landing zone. With proper technique, landings are gentle. Tandem instructors manage all landing procedures for beginners.
Tandem vs. Solo Skydiving and Free Fall Experience
Tandem Skydiving
Tandem skydiving involves jumping while harnessed to a certified instructor. The instructor manages the entire jump, including the free fall and parachute deployment. It is ideal for first-timers and guarantees a safe experience. Free fall is still fully included in a tandem jump, usually lasting 40 to 60 seconds.
Solo Skydiving
Solo jumps require training, often through AFF (Accelerated Free Fall) courses. After proper instruction, a jumper experiences free fall alone, managing body position and parachute deployment. The sensation of free fall is even more immersive for solo jumpers.
What Does Free Falling Feel Like?
No Stomach Drop Sensation
Contrary to popular belief, skydiving does not create a roller coaster “drop” feeling. Because the jumper is already moving with the aircraft’s speed, the transition to free fall is smooth. The rush is intense, but there is no disorienting drop sensation.
Wind and Noise
In free fall, jumpers feel a strong wind pressure, and the noise is loud. Breathing is possible and natural. The wind pushes against the face and body, adding to the adrenaline effect.
Visual Experience
During free fall, the ground seems distant. The horizon is wide and open. The view is breathtaking and gives a unique sense of freedom. Experienced jumpers often perform maneuvers and turns during this stage.
Safety and Training for Free Fall Skydiving
Gear That Makes Free Falling Safe
Modern skydiving gear includes multiple safety features. Main parachutes, reserve parachutes, and automatic activation devices (AADs) ensure safety. AADs deploy the reserve chute automatically if the jumper fails to do so in time.
Training for Controlled Free Fall
Training programs like AFF prepare jumpers to manage free fall safely. These courses include classroom sessions, simulations, and supervised jumps. Skydivers learn to control body position, altitude awareness, and emergency procedures.
Variations of Free Fall in Different Skydiving Styles
Formation Skydiving
Multiple jumpers free fall together and form shapes or patterns mid-air. It requires precision and communication. Each person experiences free fall while performing complex formations.
Wingsuit Flying
In this advanced form, jumpers wear a wingsuit to increase surface area and glide horizontally during free fall. It allows longer durations and adds a flying experience to free fall. The descent rate slows but the thrill remains.
HALO Jumps
HALO (High Altitude, Low Opening) jumps begin at very high altitudes, such as 30,000 feet. Jumpers free fall for over two minutes before deploying the parachute at lower altitudes. It’s often used in military settings but is also available for trained civilians.
Conclusion
Skydiving absolutely includes free falling. It is the most iconic and exhilarating part of the experience. Whether tandem or solo, every skydiver enjoys the thrill of free fall before the parachute opens. Understanding the phases, sensations, and safety measures helps new jumpers prepare and enjoy the ride.