USPA Skydiving B License Practice test

When landing in water, how should a skydiver perform their flare?

1. At the surface

2. Just before the water

3. Halfway

4. Full flare at altitude

The correct answer is: Halfway

When landing in water, performing the flare halfway provides the skydiver with enough altitude to control their descent while still ensuring a safe landing on the water surface. Flaring too early, such as at the surface or just before the water, may lead to a loss of lift, potentially resulting in a hard landing. Conversely, flaring at a higher altitude allows for too much time to descend without the necessary lift control, which can increase the risk of hitting the water too hard. Therefore, a halfway flare strikes a balance, allowing the skydiver to manage speed and descent rate effectively as they approach the water. This technique helps ensure a smoother entry and minimizes the chances of injury upon landing.