Are you an adventure freak? Skydiving can be a very good option for you! But, unfortunately, this sport is governed mainly by the
weather.
Before you decide to go for skydiving, make sure that you have a clear understanding of the weather. In short, you cannot skydive if weather is not
good!
Looking at forecasts, satellite pictures and other predicting methods can help you to gain understanding about the weather. For instance, you should
know what strength the winds are at certain heights before you go for skydiving.
But, most of the times, even the experts prove to be wrong. However, one
cannot blame them as nature is quite unpredictable!
There are certain BPA regulations that are to be followed while skydiving. These are as follows:
•
Wind:
According to the BPA regulations, the maximum ground speed limit for student skydivers and experienced skydivers is 15 knots and 20 knots
respectively. The BPA Operations manual also states that “Suspension of parachuting will be ordered for the designations of parachutists concerned after two gusts
above the limit have taken place within five minutes. After parachuting has been suspended, it will not be resumed for at least thirty minutes during which time no
gusts above the limit have occurred.”
• Cloud:
According to the BPA regulations, the minimum flight visibility must be at least 5 km. The following is
stated in the BPA manual about cloud limits: “Parachutists may not leave the aircraft if, at the point of exit, the ground between the opening point and the intended
landing area is not visible.”
• Rain:
It is not recommended to skydive in the rain or through a rain cloud. This is because the wind may be over limits if
there are rain clouds in the sky. Moreover, DZ will not be visible from the jump altitude in this case.