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What is the recommended minimum break-off altitude for belly-to-earth formation groups of five or fewer during daytime?

  1. 1,000 feet

  2. 1,500 feet higher than the highest planned deployment altitude

  3. 2,000 feet

  4. 3,000 feet above ground level

The correct answer is: 1,500 feet higher than the highest planned deployment altitude

The recommended minimum break-off altitude for belly-to-earth formation groups of five or fewer during the daytime is 1,500 feet higher than the highest planned deployment altitude. This ensures that each jumper has ample time and altitude to safely deploy their parachute without risk of collision. During freefall, especially in larger formation jumps, maintaining a safe distance is crucial for avoiding accidents, as two or more jumpers can drift into each other’s air space. Breaking off at this altitude allows for sufficient vertical separation among jumpers, accounting for variations in their fall rates and potential delays in deployment due to various factors, such as equipment malfunctions or personal hesitations. This guideline is designed to enhance safety and ensure that all members of the skydive can have a proper and safe parachute deployment, ultimately leading to cleaner and safer landings. Other choices may not provide adequate safety margins. For example, choosing a lower altitude could increase the risk of collisions or hurried deployments, while a much higher altitude might not be practical for the group size stated.