Category D : Fourth and Fifth Jumps
By now you've learned to safely control freefall by keeping track of altitude, focusing on a neutral body position and relaxing. In this category you extend your ability to turn in freefall (which you learned in Category B) by practicing controlled, relaxed turns with a single instructor.
On this as on all jumps you will inspect your gear prior to gearing up. By now you are expected to be able to do this competently without assistance, including operation of the AAD.
If at all possible, while on jump run you will observe from the door and help select the exit point and direct the pilot towards it.
Because there is only one instructor on this (and future) dives the Hotel Check changes a bit. Previously you've had an instructor both inside and outside the plane. On this dive we get rid of the instructor hanging on the outside of the plane, so your Hotel Check now becomes the Roach Motel Check (you Check-In but never Check-Out). Everything else remains the same. Prop-Arch-Out-In-Out and off you go.
Execute a Circle of Awareness as per usual after exit, just remember there will be no instructor on your Reserve (left-hand) side. Watch your remaining instructor for signals to perfect your body position before you are released.
Depending on the dive plan, you'll be performing relaxed control of 90, 180, or 360 degree freefall turns.
Under canopy you'll begin to experiment with controlling the canopy with only the rear risers, both before and after unstowing the brakes. Rear riser control is used often immediately after opening to control heading before unstowing brakes - both to help avoid other jumpers and to turn into the wind when the wind is strong.
To proceed to category E you will need to demonstrate relatively effortless control of turns in freefall. Under canopy you will be expected to be able to return to the dropzone, plan and fly a recognizable pattern, and flare without assistance.
Next (Category D - Introduction to Spotting) >>
This site is brought to you courtesy of Skydive New England
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