USPA Skydiving B License Practice test

What should jumpers do regarding spiraling turns during canopy descent at night?

1. Perform them selectively for safety

2. Avoid them during the entire descent

3. Only execute them after the initial descent

4. Practice them for skill development

The correct answer is: Avoid them during the entire descent

During night jumps, it is crucial to avoid spiraling turns during canopy descent for several reasons. Nighttime conditions drastically reduce visibility, making it significantly harder for jumpers to gauge their altitude and surroundings. Spiraling turns, which can be intentional or unintentional, may lead to a loss of situational awareness. If a jumper were to enter a spiral turn, the lack of visual references could result in difficulty determining their position relative to the ground and other jumpers, increasing the risk of collision or a mishap during landing. Moreover, the unpredictability of light during a night jump means that the usual cues that guide a jumper in controlling their descent might be obscured or completely invisible. Therefore, maintaining a stable and controlled descent without unnecessary maneuvers solidifies safety protocols in skydiving at night. The emphasis on avoiding spiraling turns underscores the importance of prioritizing safety above all else, particularly when conditions are inherently more challenging. Jumpers should focus on smooth and predictable canopy operations to ensure a safe landing.