Training Operations Manual (TOM)

Transcription

1 Australian Parachute Federation Incorporated Industry Standard Training Operations Manual (TOM) EFFECTIVE: 1 ST MAY 2015 STATUS: MANDATORY

2 Warning Parachuting and flying in parachuting aircraft can be dangerous. IMPORTANT: Version Control It is important that members refer to the current version of this manual. This standard Training Operations Manual (TOM) is current only at the time of download from the APF website, with date of issue shown on the cover page and incorporated into the footer on each page. Once this manual is adopted by a training organisation, it is the responsibility of the Chief Instructor to ensure that any mandatory requirements of the APF are incorporated into the manual and any variations are approved by the Director Instructors (and the Director Safety where it involved student training). Cover photo by Sydney Skydivers unknown photographer of AFF exit Australian Parachute Federation Incorporated. For further information visit This work is copyright. It is the current industry standard Training Operations Manual, issued as a service to APF member training organisations, holders of Instructor ratings, and to those who aspire to hold Instructor ratings. See Part 1 for details. You may download, display, print and reproduce this material in unaltered form only (retaining this notice) for your personal, non-commercial use or use within your organisation. Requests for further information should be directed to: Australian Parachute Federation, PO Box 1440 Springwood QLD apf@apf.com.au ii 1 May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

3 Contents PART 1 FUNCTION, DEFINITIONS AND POLICY Purpose Application Standard Issue or Modification for Use APF Amendments to Standard Issue and Member Feedback Definitions Chief Instructor Responsibilities Student Equipment Log Book Entries... 4 PART 2 BASIC TRAINING COURSES General Provisions Course Prerequisites Static-Line Training Course Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Training Course (Non-Tandem) Tandem Assisted Freefall (TAF) Training Course Tandem Training Course Orientation Flights Training for First Non-Tandem Ram-Air Parachute Descent PART 3 ASSESSMENTS Pre-First Jump Assessment Class A Novice Skydiver Assessment Target Assistant (TA) Training and Assessment Ground Control Assistant (GCA) Training and Assessment PART 4 STUDENT TRAINING TO CLASS A NOVICE SKYDIVER Applicable Training Before each descent During the descent After the descent Static-Line Training Table Freefall Training Table PART 5 NOVICE TRAINING TO CLASS B PROVISIONAL SKYDIVER Freefall Relative Work (RW) Training Parachute Packing Training Equipment Conversion Courses Conversion from Ripcord-Activation to Hand-Deployed Main Parachute Activation Conversion from Student Canopy to Personal Parachute Equipment Canopy Handling Training PART 6 ADVANCED TRAINING Freefly Training Canopy Relative Work (CRW) Training Wingsuit Training Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May 2015 iii

4 6.4 Night Jump Training Water Jump Training First Camera Descent DZSO Non-Training Organisation Loadmaster (LM) PART 7 ADDITIONAL OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES Visiting Parachutists Briefings Preparation of Aircraft for Parachuting APPENDIX A: Search and Rescue SAMPLE Standard Operating Procedure APPENDIX B: Student Equipment Main Deployment Procedures APPENDIX C: Student Equipment Emergency Procedures APPENDIX D: Sample Pre First Jump Assessment APPENDIX E: Sample Class A Assessment APPENDIX F: Target Assistant Sample Assessment APPENDIX G: Ground Control Assistant Sample Assessment APPENDIX H: Static-Line Training Table APPENDIX I: Freefall Training Table AFF/TAF APPENDIX J: Class B Training Table APPENDIX K: Canopy Handling Training Table APPENDIX L: Freefly RW Training Table APPENDIX M: Canopy Relative Work (CRW) Training Table APPENDIX N: Wingsuit Training Table (WSTT) APPENDIX O: Night Jump Training Table iv 1 May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

5 PART 1 FUNCTION, DEFINITIONS AND POLICY 1.1 Purpose The operations covered by this manual are those required by the APF Operational Regulations and Regulatory Schedules to be described in a Training Operations Manual This industry standard Training Operations Manual (TOM) is issued as a service for use by Australian Parachute Federation (APF) member training organisations and to holders of Instructor ratings, and to those who aspire to hold Instructor ratings The TOM outlines the areas in which instruction is to be given and details the training tables for student, novice and advanced training prescribed by APF regulations. However it makes no attempt to define how this instruction is to be delivered. The training organisation or individual instructor will therefore need to have lesson plans suited to the particular training environment. 1.2 Application The provisions of this manual became effective on 1 st May Once adopted by a Chief Instructor (CI), the TOM is applicable to all APF members involved in that organisation s training operations and participating in deemed training descents All parachute training operations must be conducted in accordance with the Operational Regulations, Regulatory Schedules, applicable CASA regulations, any mandatory APF directives, and this manual This manual must be read in conjunction with the current APF Operational Regulations and Regulatory Schedules. Where an inconsistency arises, the regulations will prevail. 1.3 Standard Issue or Modification for Use This TOM is published as an example of an acceptable training operations manual and does not claim to be definitive or the only acceptable training operations manual. The APF recognises that different training organisations may safely use other manuals This TOM is one which the CI may use as their accepted manual. There is however, no compulsion for the CI to do so. If the CI wishes to use this manual without any changes, the CI need only when seeking approval to use it, name the current issue of the TOM Alternatively, the CI may use some sections from this manual and modify or rewrite others, or the CI may use an entirely different manual. If changes to this standard TOM are desired, these must be approved in writing by the Director Instructors before the manual becomes effective, and a copy provided to the APF National Office If a CI has approval to use a training operations manual other than this one, it is the CI s responsibility to ensure that mandatory requirements of the APF are incorporated into the manual. 1.4 APF Amendments to Standard Issue and Member Feedback This manual will undergo continuous improvement and be updated periodically. Amendments will be effective only after they have been approved by the Director Instructors. All such changes are advertised in the appropriate APF publications and are assumed to have been adopted by any CI who has nominated the standard TOM as their own training operational manual and who does not hold an authorised variation to that change A CI who wishes not to adopt any such change made to this manual must apply to the Director Instructors in writing for approval and a copy provided to the APF National Office. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

6 1.4.3 A current copy of this manual must be readily available to each instructor engaged in instructional duties and to the DZSO The Director Instructors is happy to receive feedback about this manual, especially any improvement suggestions. 1.5 Definitions The comprehensive list of definitions in APF Regulatory Schedule 50 Glossary of Terms and Definitions apply to this manual unless specifically noted The May 2014 revision of the Operational Regulations and Regulatory Schedules highlight for adoption, various new titles and terminology aligned to common usage and in preparation for entry into the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector. These appear in RS50 Glossary of Terms and Definitions and some of the more relevant changes are duplicated below for quick reference in this manual. TERM INTERPRETATION / DEFINITION certificate certified parachutist coach descent or jump jumpmaster novice open height parachutist pull height rating regulations 1. The certification granted to a parachutist who has achieved an APF/FAI level of proficiency. This usage will be phased out. 2. A qualification issued in the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector which recognises achievement of specified national industry competency standards at 4 Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) levels. The holder of an APF parachutist/skydiver certification (Class A, B, C, D, E or F). See below for further explanation. (Previously known as Tutor) A person appointed by a Chief Instructor as a coach in up to 3 disciplines. A parachute descent/jump, being the time from when the parachutist exits the aircraft until the parachutist lands. An Instructor D or higher an experienced skydiver certified as capable of supervising students in aircraft and on static-line and freefall descents. An inexperienced skydiver who holds an APF/FAI Class A skydiver certification and is undergoing a course of training to achieve the Class B skydiver certification (provisional skydiver). (They do not hold an APF/FAI Class B certification.) The height at which the parachute is fully open. The holder of an APF parachutist certificate or skydiver certification or an APF student parachutist/skydiver membership. Parachutist is interchangeable with the term Skydiver, except in the case of a person undertaking student static-line jumps. The height at which the parachutist initiates the deployment sequence to open the container. A qualification issued by the APF to a skydiver who has achieved an APF level of proficiency in instructing, packing, rigging or the conduct of displays. Where references are made to APF regulations, this includes both the Operational Regulations and Regulatory Schedules. The Operational Regulations may also be referred to as OpRegs or abbreviated to OR. The Regulatory Schedules may be abbreviated to RS. 2 1 May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

7 TERM skydiver Student Parachutist or Student Skydiver Target Assistant (TA) training table trainee INTERPRETATION / DEFINITION The holder of an APF skydiver certification or parachutist certificate or an APF student parachutist/skydiver membership. Skydiver is interchangeable with the term Parachutist. A parachutist/skydiver who holds of an APF student membership, and is undergoing a course of training to achieve the Class A Novice Skydiver classification. (also known as a Certificate A.) (May also be known as Canopy Control Assistant / CCA) The person responsible for communicating canopy control directions to a student parachutist. A descent table listed in a Training Operations Manual, including: Static-Line Training Table (starts with static-line descents) Freefall Training Table (AFF or TAF) Class B Training Table (flatfly RW and canopy piloting) Canopy Handling Training Table Wingsuit Training Table (WSTT) Freefly RW Training Table Canopy Relative Work (CRW) Training Table Night Jump Training Table. A parachutist/skydiver making or training to make a descent which is required to be made under the supervision of a Chief Instructor Parachutist/skydiver certifications, issued by the APF are available at 6 classification levels, with class F being the highest. Students are issued a student membership, not granted a certification. 1.6 Chief Instructor Responsibilities The CI is responsible for the conduct of the parachute training operations covered by this manual, and for ensuring that the provisions of this manual are adhered to The CI may delegate duties connected with these training operations to suitably qualified people. However, overall responsibility for the conduct of the training operation remains with the CI In order to adequately supervise training operations, the CI must either: (a) (b) attend and be actively involved in instruction on site a minimum of one-third of operational time, calculated quarterly; or exercise supervision in accordance with a written plan approved by the Director Instructors after consultation with the local Area Instructor Examiner The CI must not supervise more than one training operation simultaneously without the approval of the local Parachute Council Area Instructor Examiner and the Director Instructors Training organisations are required to implement a system of accounting for jumpers at the end of operations. This will be checked as part of the DZ s annual audit. A sample Search and Rescue (SAR) procedure is printed in Appendix A of this manual. 1.7 Student Equipment Students must use only parachuting equipment supplied by the organisation except as otherwise authorised by the DZSO Students being trained in either the Static-Line Training Table or the Freefall Training Tables (AFF/TAF) will use a harness/container system: Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

8 (a) (b) with ram-air main parachute and ram-air reserve of makes/models known for reliable openings and docile handling characteristics; and where the cut-away/reserve deployment system must be one of the following types: (i) a Single Operation System (SOS) fitted with a reserve static line (RSL) which causes the reserve to be activated when the main risers are released; or (ii) a Dual Operating System (DOS) with a minimum of RSL and SOS on the reserve; or (iii) a Two Action System (TAS) fitted with a reserve static line (RSL) which causes the reserve to be activated when the main risers are released Notwithstanding the provisions of 1.7.2, students who have already been trained may continue to use the type of equipment on which they were trained Tandem students will use equipment which is approved for use in Australia. For details of the approval process, see APF RAC 218B and APF SB Other than tandem students, all students will use equipment where the main is activated either by static-line, ripcord or throw-away pilot chute. Examples of typical key words used in demonstrating main activation for equipment predominantly used by students are shown in Appendices B and C of this manual The main and reserve parachute used for each jump by a student will be selected after consideration of the weight, age, experience and competence of the student All static-line descents will be made using a direct-bag main deployment system All student descents (other than into water) will be made with equipment using a ram-air reserve parachute utilising a free bag reserve deployment system The equipment of each student parachutist must be thoroughly checked by an instructor immediately before emplaning. 1.8 Log Book Entries The instructor, DZSO or coach who makes entries in the student's log book as required by APF regulations shall ensure that the entries are a full record of the student's progress and achievements for each jump with regard to the aims and manoeuvres required for that jump. (Also refer Section (b).) The entries referred to above must also include the instructor s, coach s or DZSO s recommendations for the student's next descent. 4 1 May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

9 PART 2 BASIC TRAINING COURSES This section covers the requirements to be met before a student parachutist makes their first parachute descent under the auspices of the APF. 2.1 General Provisions A student's first descent may be any one of the following types: Static-Line (S/L) Freefall Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Tandem Assisted Freefall (TAF) Tandem Where a student initially trained for one type of descent is to be converted to another type of descent, the training prescribed for that descent must be completed before the student makes that descent For any student descent not otherwise described in this manual, the minimum pull height for main deployment is 3,000 feet AGL. 2.2 Course Prerequisites The student must be issued with an APF Student Parachutist Licence before undergoing any practical training. At the time of membership application, the student must be made aware of the potential dangers of parachuting, and must not be allowed to continue training until the application form has been fully completed During a course, the ratio of students to instructors must not exceed 12 to 1. An Instructor C or D assisting on a course may be considered as an instructor for this purpose. Only an Instructor B may conduct AFF, TAF and S/L first jump training. 2.3 Static-Line Training Course Before making a first static-line descent, the student must have a good knowledge of the following theoretical and practical aspects of parachuting as it affects the student: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) Organisation of parachuting operations: The role of instructors, DZSO, the CI; and the Operational Regulations and Regulatory Schedules. Equipment: The nomenclature, operation and proper treatment of the parachute equipment to be used on the first jump. Aircraft Procedures. The student must understand the procedures required for safety with respect to the aircraft, both on the ground and in flight; and must understand from whom orders are to be taken while the aircraft is in flight. Aircraft exit. The student must be able to demonstrate an exit from the aircraft which allows them to leave the aircraft safely and adopt a stable (arch) position in the airstream, such that the parachute has the maximum chance of deploying cleanly without risk to the aircraft. Stability. The student must understand the reason for, and be able to demonstrate, the stable relaxed freefall position and the awareness count. Procedures under canopy. The student must be able to demonstrate that they understand how to: check that the canopy is properly deployed; steer the canopy toward the landing area; follow the directions of the TA; and deal with a bad spot, i.e. control the canopy landing independent of the TA. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

10 See 2.8 for more detail with regard to ram-air canopies. (g) (h) (i) Emergency Procedures (i) The student will be able to demonstrate the ability to recognise whether the canopy has malfunctioned or not, and must demonstrate, by the use of a suspended harness, appropriate techniques for dealing with routine opening problems, line twists or any other canopy or deployment malfunction. (ii) The student will also be able to explain and demonstrate the techniques for handling and landing the reserve parachute. (iii) The student will also be able to describe and demonstrate appropriate reactions to emergencies in the aircraft, including loss of power at any altitude, catastrophic aircraft failure, fire, canopy open in aircraft, procedure after a forced or crash landing, or tailplane strike. Examples of typical key words used in demonstrating Emergency Procedures for equipment predominantly used by students are shown in Appendix C of this manual. Landing techniques. The student will be able to demonstrate a landing technique, suitable for the equipment to be used and the prevailing conditions, which will allow them to land with minimal risk of injury. This must include landings under main and reserve parachutes and in each case must involve parachute landing roll (PLR) training. See (h) with regard to ram-air canopies. Hazardous landings. The student will be able to explain and demonstrate, by the use of a suspended harness, appropriate action to deal with landings in hazardous areas including water, trees, power lines, buildings, and hard surfaces. This must include landings both under the main canopy and under reserve. The student will also be able to demonstrate techniques to deal with being dragged by the canopy (main or reserve) after landing. 2.4 Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Training Course (Non-Tandem) Before making a non-tandem descent on the Freefall Training Table, the student must have a good knowledge of the following theoretical and practical aspects of parachuting as it affects the student [see also (c)]: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) The organisation of parachuting operations: The role of instructors, DZSO, the CI; and the Operational Regulations and Regulatory Schedules. Equipment: The nomenclature, operation and proper treatment of the parachute equipment to be used on the first jump. Aircraft Procedures. The student must understand the procedures required for safety with respect to the aircraft, both on the ground and in flight, and must understand from whom orders are to be taken while the aircraft is in flight. Aircraft exit. The student must be able to demonstrate climb-out and exit procedures which will allow a safe and stable exit from the aircraft. Freefall Procedures. The student must understand and be able to demonstrate the freefall procedures required. The freefall manoeuvres are described in Part 4 of this manual. Freefall emergencies. The student will understand and be able to demonstrate the procedures required by: loss of one or both jumpmasters; a hard pull; a floating ripcord / lost handle; jumpmaster's signal for loss of height awareness; and uncontrolled instability. 6 1 May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

11 (g) (h) (i) (j) Procedures under canopy. The student must be able to demonstrate that they understand how to: check that the canopy is properly deployed; steer the canopy toward the landing area; follow the directions of the TA; and deal with a bad spot, i.e. control the canopy landing independent of the TA. See 2.8 for more detail with regard to ram-air canopies. Emergency Procedures (i) The student will be required to demonstrate the ability to recognise whether the canopy has malfunctioned or not, and must demonstrate, by the use of a suspended harness, appropriate techniques for dealing with routine opening problems, line twists or any other canopy or deployment malfunction. (ii) The student will also be able to demonstrate the techniques for handling and landing the reserve parachute. (iii) The student will also be able to describe and demonstrate appropriate reactions to emergencies in the aircraft, including loss of power at any altitude, catastrophic aircraft failure, fire, canopy open in aircraft and procedure after forced or crash landing, tail plane strike. Examples of typical key words used in demonstrating Emergency Procedures for equipment predominantly used by students are shown in Appendix C of this manual. Landing techniques. The student will be able to demonstrate a landing technique, suitable for the equipment to be used and the prevailing conditions, which will allow them to land with minimal risk of injury. This will include landings under main and reserve parachutes and in each case will involve parachute landing roll (PLR) training. See (h) with regard to ram-air canopies. Hazardous landings. The student will be able to explain and demonstrate, by the use of a suspended harness, appropriate actions to deal with landings in hazardous areas including water, trees, power lines, buildings, and hard surfaces. This must include landings both under the main canopy and under reserve. The student will also be able to demonstrate techniques to deal with being dragged by the canopy (main or reserve) after landing. 2.5 Tandem Assisted Freefall (TAF) Training Course Note the following Operational Regulations which are particularly relevant to TAF training: OR defines Instructor B privileges to instruct emergency and classroom training on first jump courses for the endorsements held; OR and define relevant instructor supervision requirements and qualifications. See TOM section 4.6 for additional detail. Before making a TAF descent on the Freefall Training Table, the student must have a good knowledge of the theoretical and practical aspects of parachuting as it affects the student as defined in (a) to (i) below. Training of (j) to (l) prior to the first TAF descent is optional as consideration must be given to knowledge and skills development that is either not required for the first TAF descent, or may conflict with practical requirements (e.g. raise their legs for landing versus PLRs). (a) (b) The organisation of parachuting operations: The role of instructors, DZSO, the CI; and the Operational Regulations and Regulatory Schedules. Equipment: The nomenclature, operation and proper treatment of the parachute equipment to be used on the first jump. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

12 (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) (i) Aircraft Procedures. The student must understand the procedures required for safety with respect to the aircraft, both on the ground and in flight, and must understand from whom orders are to be taken while the aircraft is in flight. Aircraft exit. The student must be able to demonstrate climb-out and exit procedures which will allow a safe and stable exit from the aircraft. Freefall Procedures. The student must understand and be able to demonstrate the freefall procedures required. The freefall manoeuvres are described in Part 4 of this manual. Freefall emergencies. The student will understand and be able to demonstrate the procedures required by: loss of one or both jumpmasters; a hard pull; a floating ripcord / lost handle; jumpmaster's signal for loss of height awareness; and uncontrolled instability. Procedures under canopy. The student must be able to demonstrate that they understand how to: check that the canopy is properly deployed; steer the canopy toward the landing area; follow the canopy control directions of the TA; and deal with a bad spot, i.e. control the canopy landing independent of the TA. See 2.8 for more detail with regard to ram-air canopies. Emergency Procedures. The student must understand the procedure in the event of a tandem parachute malfunction. Landings. The student will be able to demonstrate a landing technique suitable for the equipment to be used and the prevailing conditions, including the ability to raise their legs for landing. Note: The CI must have a system in place to ensure the student is trained in the following areas prior to the student s first AFF descent and that this is not overlooked. Consideration must be given to circumstances where a student who has completed only (a) to (i) training then attends another DZ or training organisation for their subsequent jump. The student s log book must clearly show any outstanding training required before the student undertakes their next descent. After making their first TAF descent and before making their first AFF descent, the student must have a good knowledge of the theoretical and practical aspects of parachuting as it affects the student as defined in (j) to (l). (j) Emergency Procedures (i) The student will be required to demonstrate the ability to recognise whether the canopy has malfunctioned or not, and must demonstrate, by the use of a suspended harness, appropriate techniques for dealing with routine opening problems, line twists or any other canopy or deployment malfunction. (ii) The student will also be able to demonstrate the techniques for handling and landing the reserve parachute. (iii) The student will also be able to describe and demonstrate appropriate reactions to emergencies in the aircraft, including loss of power at any altitude, catastrophic aircraft failure, fire, canopy open in aircraft and procedure after forced or crash landing, tail plane strike. Examples of typical key words used in demonstrating Emergency Procedures for equipment predominantly used by students are shown in Appendix C of this manual. 8 1 May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

13 (k) (l) Landing techniques. The student will be able to demonstrate a landing technique, suitable for the equipment to be used and the prevailing conditions, which will allow them to land with minimal risk of injury. This will include landings under main and reserve parachutes and in each case will involve parachute landing roll (PLR) training. See (h) with regard to ram-air canopies. Hazardous landings. The student will be able to explain and demonstrate, by the use of a suspended harness, appropriate actions to deal with landings in hazardous areas including water, trees, power lines, buildings, and hard surfaces. This must include landings both under the main canopy and under reserve. The student will also be able to demonstrate techniques to deal with being dragged by the canopy (main or reserve) after landing. See also and Tandem Training Course Before making a tandem descent (non-taf), the student shall be given a thorough briefing by a Tandem Instructor on the following: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) Equipment: Explanation of the equipment to be used and the fitting of harness Aircraft Procedures. The student must understand the procedures required for safety with respect to the aircraft, both on the ground and in flight, and will also be aware of the actions to be taken in the event of emergencies in the aircraft. Aircraft Exit. The student must be taught climb-out and exit procedures which will allow a safe and stable exit from the aircraft. Freefall Procedures. The student must understand the freefall procedures required. Procedures under canopy. The student must be taught the procedures applicable for the canopy flight. Emergency Procedures. The student must understand the procedure in the event of a parachute malfunction. Landings. The student will be able to demonstrate a landing technique suitable for the equipment to be used and the prevailing conditions, including the ability to raise their legs for landing. See also Orientation Flights This section defines the training and procedures necessary before a student may make an orientation flight Before making an orientation flight, a passenger must be issued with an APF Student Parachutist licence. At the time of membership application, the now student must be made aware of the potential dangers of parachuting activities, and will not be permitted to make an orientation flight until the application form has been fully completed When a student is to make an orientation flight, one the following procedures must be followed. Either: (a) While making an orientation flight, a student may wear a parachute. Unless the student has been fully briefed on handling a ram-air parachute, this parachute will be round. Before making an orientation flight, the student will be fully briefed by an Instructor B on: (i) conduct in and around the aircraft; (ii) danger of their parachute opening in the aircraft; (iii) jumpmaster's commands in case of emergency; (iv) mode of emergency exit from the aircraft; (v) deployment of parachute; Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

14 (vii) (b) (vi) handling and landing of the parachute; and leaving the aircraft after landing; or: As an alternative to (a), a student may make an orientation flight if the student remains securely restrained within the aircraft by means of a seat belt or single point restraint for the entire time the aircraft is in the air. Before making an orientation flight, the student will be thoroughly briefed by an Instructor C on: (i) conduct in and around the aircraft; (ii) procedures in case of crash landing, forced landing or fire after landing; and (iii) leaving the aircraft after landing. In accordance with APF regulations, an Instructor is to accompany a student parachutist in the aircraft. 2.8 Training for First Non-Tandem Ram-Air Parachute Descent Before making a descent other than a tandem descent, using a ram-air parachute, a student will be fully briefed by an Instructor and will have a thorough knowledge of: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) mode of deployment of the canopy; appearance and characteristics of a malfunctioned canopy, a well deployed canopy, and one with minor deployment problems; procedures necessary to deal with or rectify any problems, including: unable to extract hand-deployed pilot-chute from BOC; floating ripcord; hard ripcord pull; pilot chute hesitation; high-speed and horse-shoe malfunctions; low-speed malfunctions; two canopies out; broken suspension lines; broken steering line; closed end cells; slider not fully down; one brake released on opening; line twists; and a damaged canopy; characteristics and handling of the reserve canopy, and the technique for landing safely under the reserve canopy with minimal risk of injury; basic procedures to be followed in the event that both the main and reserve canopy are deployed without the main having been released; the speed and range of a ram-air canopy; mode of target/canopy control assistance if this is to be used. Alternatively, the student will be instructed on a strategy which will allow them to land in a safe area; the landing technique to be used. The student will be taught two methods of landing their canopy: (i) a flared landing, with or without using a Parachute Landing Roll (PLR) position; and 10 1 May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

15 (i) (ii) a half-brake approach using a PLR; the effect of turbulence on a ram-air canopy, the conditions under which turbulence is likely to occur, and the technique for dealing with turbulence Before making a descent using a ram-air parachute, other than a tandem descent, the student will understand the tasks to be performed during the descent, including: practice manoeuvres under canopy for turns and landing; stall practice and stall recovery; instructions and signals from the TA; and landing pattern and flare height. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

16 PART 3 ASSESSMENTS 3.1 Pre First Jump Assessment Before a student makes a first descent of any of the types listed in (i.e. first tandem descent, first freefall descent and first static-line descent), the student will pass an assessment set by the CI For a student trained by the TAF method, the first non-tandem descent is regarded as a first freefall descent. For a first tandem descent, the assessment: (a) (b) (c) (d) will be administered by a Tandem Instructor; will test the student's theoretical knowledge and practical ability; may consist of a practical test only; and must test the students practical ability to raise their legs for landing For first static-line and first non-tandem freefall descents, the assessment will: (a) be administered by an appropriately endorsed Instructor B; (b) (c) consist of written and practical assessment (which will include assessment of the student in a suspended harness); test the student's theoretical knowledge and practical ability, covering all areas which may affect the student's safety and performance during the first descent and include written questions on: exercises under canopy: stalls, stall recovery, turns; where to expect turbulence; landing pattern; flare height and stall recovery; when to use a PLR and describe the PLR position; procedures to be followed if two canopies are deployed; and Do you believe you are able to land your canopy unassisted? The written assessment referred to in is to be approved by the Director Instructors. An approved sample pre first-jump written assessment is provided in Appendix D of this manual Any lack of knowledge or ability exposed by the assessment will be corrected before the student is permitted to make a descent. 3.2 Class A Novice Skydiver Assessment Before a student parachutist applies for a Class A certification, the student will pass a written assessment set by the CI and administered by an Instructor C or above The assessment will test the student's knowledge of APF regulations and theory of parachuting. The assessment will cover all areas affecting the student's ability to make safe and proficient parachute descents with minimal supervision and include questions on: the effects of wing loading and aspect ratio on canopy performance; cause of stalls and their effects on airflow over the aerofoil; relationship of lift and drag to airspeed; and relationship of height loss to turning. A sample Class A assessment is provided in Appendix E of this manual Any lack of knowledge exposed by the assessment will be corrected before the student is allowed to apply for the Class A Novice skydiver certification May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

17 3.3 Target Assistant (TA) Training and Assessment This section is designed to give information to potential TA s and to CI s who wish to certify such people. The person who acts as TA for student jumps is required to be a full member of the APF, and either an instructor or certified as a TA by a CI APF Regulations and Authority (a) (b) (c) APF regulations (OR and ) define the requirement and forbid unqualified people acting as a TA. Before being permitted to act as a TA during student training descents, a person who is not the holder of an instructor rating must complete a course of instruction and an assessment set by the CI and be assessed as competent. The authority to act as a TA for student training descents will be written into the holder's log book and signed by the CI. The TA acts under the direct supervision of the DZSO Training Syllabus Prerequisites to acting as a TA are an understanding of the regulations that affect the role and the ability to collect and interpret weather and environmental information in order to forecast and assess their impact on parachuting activities. Further information is available in the APF Parachute Instructor Manual (PIM) and relevant training materials in the draft Certificate III in Skydiving and Parachuting Instruction, which includes the units: SISOOPS306A Interpret weather conditions in the field; and SKYCCA302A Provide canopy control assistance (draft) Target Assistant Responsibilities and Duties The role of the TA is to provide canopy control directions to student parachutists using ground-to-air communications, including radio and visual communication systems, to facilitate safe landing in a target area and to provide feedback on student performance. The TA should be aware of the following: Ensure all the appropriate equipment is in place. Be aware of wind conditions at various levels. This can be ascertained by observing the speed of the aircraft on jump run, from the drift of the wind drift indicator, and from the performance of canopies. Be familiar with the performance of different student canopies for students of different weights. Develop a flight plan depending on the weather conditions which will avoid turning the student away from the TA below 1000 ft and which will also guide the student away from hazardous areas and to a safe landing site downwind of the target but facing upwind. The flight plan should be consistent with the student s briefing by their instructor. From the target area, identify the student's canopy in order to guide the student to the desired landing area. Allow for varying reaction times to the TA s directions. If radios are being used, be prepared to quickly fall back to an alternative form of communication should the student fail to respond to a direction. Unless well practiced, a TA should not try to land a student too close since a small misjudgement will then allow the student to fly over the TA. Shouted commands at this point are often ineffectual since the student s ears are often blocked due to the pressure change. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

18 It is important during finals that the TA maintain a height reference to the student. Keeping the student s feet AND the horizon in the TA s frame of vision will allow better judgement of the flare timing. Direct the student to flare the canopy at the appropriate time, making allowance for canopy type, wind conditions, student's weight, sharpness of student's reaction time, etc. To this end it is usually better to give the flare signal slightly earlier than the ideal to allow for slow reactions. Many students are reported as having taken their eyes off the TA during final approach to look at the ground and consequently flare late. Small movements with the bats will tend to keep the student focussed on the TA s action. Assist and advise the student after landing on care of their equipment. Report the student's canopy control and landing performance to DZSO or appropriate instructor. Report any incidents and injuries to the DZSO TA Assessment and Authorisation The candidate must: (a) (b) Pass a written assessment covering the above areas. The CI may alter or augment this assessment to suit the needs of their particular training organisation. A sample TA assessment is provided in Appendix F of this manual. Be authorised by the CI as competent to act as TA. When satisfied of the candidate's performance in both the written assessment and practical tests, the CI should endorse the candidate's assessment and their logbook. This authorisation is handled entirely at the drop zone level. There is no requirement for application to the APF office, nor for application fees, nor for the assessment to be returned to the APF office. 3.4 Ground Control Assistant (GCA) Training and Assessment This section is designed to give information to potential GCA s and to CI s who wish to certify such people. A GCA must be appointed by the DZSO for every load, or for display jumps appointed by the Display Organiser. The person who acts as GCA must be a member of the APF and for student jumps, is required to be an instructor or certified as a GCA by a CI APF and CASA Regulations and Authority (a) (b) (c) APF regulations (OR and 6.1.8) define the requirement and forbid unqualified people acting as a GCA. Before being permitted to act as a GCA during parachute descents, the person must complete a course of instruction and an assessment set by the CI and be assessed as competent. CASA requires operators of aeronautical radios to hold a radio operator qualification. This must be based on a CASA approved course of training and assessment (e.g. draft unit SKYGCA303A) to satisfy eligibility requirements for granting of an authorisation to operate an aeronautical radio, issued in accordance with Civil Aviation legislation. The authority to act as a GCA for all parachute descents will be recorded in: (i) a register maintained and signed by the CI; and (ii) the DZ master log by the DZSO May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

19 3.4.2 Training Syllabus Prerequisites to acting as a GCA are an understanding of the regulations that affect the role and the ability to collect and interpret weather and environmental information in order to forecast and assess their impact on parachuting activities. Further information is available in the APF Parachute Instructor Manual (PIM) and relevant training materials in the draft Certificate III in Skydiving and Parachuting Instruction, which includes the units: SISOOPS306A Interpret weather conditions in the field; and SKYGCA303A Provide ground control assistance (draft) GCA Responsibilities and Duties The role of the GCA is to communicate ground control information to pilots and loadmasters during skydiving and parachuting operations or displays, including the operation of aeronautical radios on aviation frequencies. This involves assisting the DZSO or Display Organiser with safe to drop signalling and advice on the advisability of exiting the aircraft, using aviation English and protocols. The GCA s role covers the following: Ensuring all the appropriate equipment is in place. Monitoring weather and environmental conditions, any potential hazards, and the aerial activity of participants and ground conditions. Knowing the details of each load, the landing direction(s) and range of conditions suitable for parachute descents by confirming with pilots and loadmasters. Knowing the aeronautical radio frequency bands in use, and understanding the properties of radio waves and the factors that can affect radio wave propagation. The set-up and operation of aeronautical radios, including common industry terminology, required phraseology and radio telephone procedure, and responding to emergency and urgency transmissions. The use of alternative communication strategies to radios (e.g. ground panels, telephones). This includes being prepared to quickly fall back to an alternative form of communication should the pilot fail to respond to a transmission. Reporting any incidents and injuries to the DZSO, and the procedures for dealing with various incidents, including off-drop zone landings, canopy malfunctions, landing injuries and the Drop Zone Emergency Response Plan GCA Assessment and Authorisation The candidate must: (a) Pass a written assessment covering the above areas. The CI may alter or augment this assessment to suit the needs of their particular training organisation. A sample GCA assessment is provided in Appendix G of this manual. Completion of this assessment and the practical checklist covers the required content for satisfying eligibility requirements for granting of an authorisation to operate an aeronautical radio, but has not yet been approved by CASA. (b) Be authorised by the CI as competent to act as GCA. When satisfied of the candidate's performance in both the written assessment and practical tests, the CI should endorse both the candidate's assessment and their logbook. This authorisation is handled entirely at the drop zone level. There is no requirement for application to the APF office, nor for application fees, nor for the assessment to be returned to the APF office. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

20 PART 4 STUDENT TRAINING TO CLASS A NOVICE SKYDIVER This section describes part of the training that a student will receive before being allowed to apply for a Class A Novice skydiver certification. It excludes canopy control and knowledge of parachuting regulations. 4.1 Applicable Training A student will be trained using one of the following training syllabuses (i.e. student training tables): (a) Static-Line Training Table (see Appendix H) (b) Freefall Training Table (see Appendix I) A student may transfer from one training table to another. If transferring, the student will take up training on the second training table at a stage determined by the DZSO, who will ensure that the student is fully briefed and has the ability to perform safely and competently A student who transfers from one training table to another will have received all the basic training required by Part 2 of this manual before making a descent under the second training table. 4.2 Before each descent A DZSO is responsible for ensuring that the student is fully prepared for each descent, and that the student's recent parachuting experience and performance is sufficient for the descent to be made safely Before being permitted to make each descent in a training table, the student must: (a) (b) have satisfactorily completed the previous stage of the training table; and hold the pre-requisite knowledge and skills for the planned descent. The student must fully understand and be able to demonstrate all the procedures, techniques and manoeuvres required for the planned descent. Note: See also Each student s equipment must be thoroughly checked by an instructor immediately before emplaning. 4.3 During the descent The student must satisfactorily demonstrate the procedures, techniques and manoeuvres defined in the training table s minimum requirements and aims for that stage and descent. 4.4 After the descent Before being permitted to advance to the next stage of the training table, the student will have demonstrated proficiency in the procedures, techniques and manoeuvres required in the previous stage s descents, i.e. the aims and minimum requirements need to be satisfactorily completed, which may take more than one jump Before recommending a student for a Class A Novice skydiver, the CI will ensure that the student has successfully completed all requirements outlined in APF regulations. Only holders of current instructor ratings are permitted to carry out training descents with students who do not hold a Class A Novice skydiver certification Static-Line Training Table The stages of the Static-Line Training Table are detailed in Appendix H May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

21 4.6. Freefall Training Table Training descents may be structured by the CI, provided that they address the aims and include the minimum manoeuvres described in the Freefall Training Table shown in Appendix I. Accelerated Freefall (AFF) AFF descents may be structured by the CI, provided that they address the following aims and include the following minimum manoeuvres. Tandem Assisted Freefall (TAF) TAF descents may be structured by the CI, provided that they address the following aims and include the following minimum manoeuvres. The following stages are detailed in Appendix I Freefall Training Table For Stages 1 4, a student may complete any stage by either method and may change between methods when between stages, but not within a stage Stage 3 of TAF consists of more than one jump Students changing from TAF to AFF or vice versa may not advance to the next Stage unless the previous Stage is successfully completed and their logbook endorsed by an Instructor The DZSO may, at her/his discretion, allow a student to make solo descents between stages 6, 7, 8 and 9 for the purpose of consolidating and polishing manoeuvres prior to advancing to the next stage Minimum exit altitudes for the stages of the Freefall Training Table shall be: (a) Stages 1 to 3 inclusive: 9000 ft. AGL. (b) Stages 4 to 8 inclusive: 8000 ft. AGL. (c) Stage 9: 3500 ft. AGL During stages 1 to 3 of the Freefall Training Table by the AFF method, the duties of the jumpmaster include: Authorise the student to commence the climb out. Maintaining grips on the student as required for each stage. Ensure main pilot-chute deployment. Ensure reserve ripcord pull by 2500 ft in the event of a freefall emergency. Ensure target/canopy control assistance is available to the student under canopy if required. The division of duties will be established by the CI During stages 1 to 3 of the Freefall Training Table by the TAF method, the instructor s duties include: Authorise the student to commence the climb out. Ensure drogue deployment. Ensure main canopy deployment completed above 4000 ft During non-tandem descents of the Freefall Training Table by the TAF method, the duties of the jumpmaster include: Authorise the student to commence the climb out. Maintaining grips on the student as required for the stage. Ensure main pilot-chute deployment. Ensure target/canopy control assistance is available to the student under canopy if required. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

22 4.6.7 The instructor conducting tandem descents under the Freefall Training Table by the TAF method must have completed 50 tandem jumps and must also hold an AFF endorsement (OR ). (a) (b) (c) Before being permitted to make TAF tandem descents, the student will have been trained as described in section 2.6 and will in addition have received at least the theoretical and practical training necessary to complete the aims and minimum manoeuvres. Following any TAF tandem descents, the student's log book must be completed to include a description of the training they have received to achieve the aims and manoeuvres of the jumps. Before a student is permitted to make any descents other than as tandem descents, the DZSO must ensure that the student has received all the necessary Basic Training as required in Part 2. Students who have been trained by tandem methods must be very carefully assessed to ensure they have received all required basic training prior to being allowed to make non-tandem jumps. See 2.5, 2.6, and Parachute packing (main) for personal use is now part of Class B training (see Part 5) May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

23 PART 5 NOVICE TRAINING TO CLASS B PROVISIONAL SKYDIVER This section defines the training that will be given to novice and trainee parachutists. 5.1 and 5.2 cover mandatory requirements for the trainee to attain a Class B certification (to become a provisional skydiver). The APF s Certificate Class B Training Guide describes freefall and canopy handling manoeuvres in more detail. 5.1 Freefall Relative Work (RW) Training Before being permitted to make a first relative work descent, the novice will be thoroughly briefed by an instructor on the syllabus defined in the APF Parachute Instructor Manual (PIM) Before being permitted to make a relative work training descent, the novice will be thoroughly briefed on that descent by an instructor or an RW coach on the syllabus defined in the APF Parachute Instructor Manual and Appendix J of this manual The training descents will be those defined in the APF Class B Training Table. 5.2 Parachute Packing Training Before being qualified as a Class B provisional skydiver, the novice will be trained in the inspection, daily maintenance and packing of a main parachute for their own use or the use of a parachutist holding a sporting licence. This training for packing of main parachute for own use may begin earlier (during Class A training, as it was previously) This training will consist of at least 10 repacks correctly completed, under the direct supervision of an APF instructor who holds at least a Packer B rating. 5.3 Equipment Conversion Courses A trainee parachutist will not be permitted to change the type of equipment used for a descent until they have been fully briefed by at least an Instructor C on the use of that equipment A trainee parachutist will not be permitted to make a descent on a changed type of equipment without the approval of the DZSO. In assessing whether to allow the descent to be made, the DZSO will consider the trainee's experience, proficiency and past history, the type of gear and the magnitude of the change. 5.4 Conversion from Ripcord-Activation to Hand-Deployed Main Parachute Activation Before being permitted to make a first descent using a throw-away pilot chute, the trainee will be briefed by an instructor in accordance with the syllabus defined in the APF Parachute Instructor Manual Before being permitted to make a first descent using a hand-deployed pilot chute, the trainee will receive a briefing from an Instructor C, in addition to that required by the syllabus for conversion to throw-away pilot chute defined in the APF Parachute Instructor Manual, on the particular features of the BOC pilot chute system. This will include use of AAD, RSL (and disconnection when relevant), the danger of dislodgement during exit, hard pull, floating bunny tail (if applicable), pilot chute in tow, the use of a kill line and the technique for pulling the BOC pilot chute Before being permitted to make a first jump using a hand-deploy system, the trainee will be able to demonstrate their knowledge of the system and the procedures necessary to make a safe descent using the equipment. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

24 5.5 Conversion from Student Canopy to Personal Parachute Equipment Canopy Handling Training During conversion training from student equipment, a parachutist will complete the following routine to the satisfaction of an experienced canopy check pilot (trainer): After opening, the trainer and novice reach up to locate their back risers and use these to correct their heading. The trainer flies to a position next to but a few feet higher than the novice and establishes communication. Both then complete two 30º turns using half brakes - brake up turns. The novice does a brake turn away from trainer and turns back to trainer s heading using front risers, then brake turn back toward the trainer and again a riser turn on to heading, finishing with a flare. Novice goes from full drive to about ¾ brakes and does a 90-degree turn by letting up one brake to ¼ brake. Return to trainer using same method. Stall and stall recovery. Flying on full drive, the novice reaches up and grabs both back risers pulling them down a couple of inches and pulling their knees up to their chest. The novice reaches up as high as they are able and pulls down both front risers keeping hands in toggles. They then pull down as fast as possible and ease them up to release and then flare the canopy. The novice does a back riser sashay. Keeping their toggles in hands, they reach up and grab both rear risers, turning about 45 degrees away from the trainer. They turn back to the trainer and straighten up so they are both flying on the same heading. The novice completes a hook turn and maximum recovery. (A hard 180 turn and immediately apply the other brake to flare the canopy). Landing using a downwind, crosswind and in-to-wind pattern Upon satisfactory completion of this canopy training jump, the parachutist s log is to be endorsed by the check pilot. This series of exercises is described in more detail in the Certificate Class B Training Guide and in the notes and video supplied to all APF training organisations. Also refer to the Canopy Handling Training Table (Appendix K) for additional exercises to demonstrate canopy handling skills required May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

25 PART 6 ADVANCED TRAINING This section defines the training that will be given to Class B (provisional) or higher level trainee skydivers undertaking advanced parachute training. They should be read in conjunction with the Operational Regulations, in particular Parts 9 and 11, and the Regulatory Schedules. 6.1 Freefly Training Minimum Requirements: Training and Non-Training Descents The following matrix summarises the maximum group size and type of freefly jumps permitted: Number of Jumpers Type of Freefly Overview of Requirements Solo or 2-way Any non-training / fun jumps Cert Class B or higher and DZSO approval 2-way or 3-way 4-way up to 10-way Head-Up training Head-Down training Head-Up training Head-Down training Freefly Training Table Stages 1 & 2 and DZSO approval for those on the jump Freefly Training Table Stages 3 & 4 and DZSO approval for those on the jump Not permitted Not permitted 3-way up to 10-way Any non-training / fun jumps Freefly Crest 10+ ways Any non-training / fun jumps Freefly Crest and Star Crest Basic freefly skills are best learnt in 2-ways. Corking, drifting and wobbly break-offs are quite common and collisions are minimised in a smaller group. Novice freefly jumps should be with a coach focusing on the trainee, however 2 disciplined flyers, ideally with cameras (helmet-mounted), who have been taught to brief and debrief each other can also achieve quite a lot when combined with feedback by a coach on the ground. With DZSO approval, non-trainees on the jump may fly head-up or head-down depending on their level of experience and Freefly Crest status. Training Descents Before being permitted to make a freefly training descent, the trainee will be thoroughly briefed on that descent by a coach who holds an endorsement for freefly training on the syllabus defined in the APF Freefly Training Guide The training descents will be those defined in the APF Freefly Training Table. See Appendix L The Freefly Training Table has 4 stages divided into 2 parts: Head-Up and Head-Down. The trainee s skill development must abide by the following provisions: (a) (b) Head-Up: (c) (d) (e) OR (b) requires that holders of Class B or higher certifications must have DZSO approval to participate in 2-way freefly, or 3-ways where additionally approved by the DZSO for that training jump. Successful completion of each stage must be signed-off (recorded in the trainee s logbook) by a current freefly coach and DZSO before progressing to the next level. On completion of Head-Up Level 1, the trainee is permitted to jump head-up only and limited to groups of 2 (or 3 with DZSO approval). On completion of Head-Up Level 2, the trainee remains limited to head-up and groups of 2 (or 3 with DZSO approval). The trainee must be proficient in Head-Up before being permitted to progress to Head- Down. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

26 Head-Down: (f) (g) On completion of Head-Down Level 1, the trainee is limited to jump (head-up or headdown) in groups of 2 (or 3 with DZSO approval). On completion of Head-Down Level 2, the trainee is remains limited to jump (head-up or head-down) in groups of 2 (or 3 with DZSO approval). Freefly Crest: (h) The candidate remains restricted as in (g) until the APF National Office receives a satisfactorily completed and verified APF Crest Award Application (Form C3) along with the prescribed fee On satisfactory completion of all stages, the CI should endorse the trainee s logbook that they are deemed competent and safe. 6.2 Canopy Relative Work (CRW) Training Before being permitted to make a first canopy relative work descent, the trainee will be thoroughly briefed by a CI approved person Before being permitted to undertake CRW training, a trainee will have completed the prerequisites listed in the APF regulations The training descents should be those defined in the APF CRW Training Table (Appendix M). 6.3 Wingsuit Training Before being permitted to undertake a wingsuit training descent, a trainee must have completed the prerequisites listed in the APF regulations Before being permitted to undertake a wingsuit training descent, a trainee will be thoroughly briefed on that descent by a Wingsuit Coach Wingsuits to be worn by trainees will be approved by the Wingsuit Coach in accordance with manufacturer s guidelines and considering other factors that may affect trainee safety and performance. (See APF website or Wingsuit Training Guide for recommended guidelines.) The training descents will be those defined in the APF regulations and the Wingsuit Training Table (WSTT) in this manual (see Appendix N) The WSTT is divided into 3 parts: A, B and C. Following successful completion of Part A, the trainee must obtain the written and signed approval of a Wingsuit Coach and a CI in order to participate in restricted relative work during wingsuit descents defined in Part B. 6.4 Night Jump Training Before being permitted to make a first descent at night, the trainee will undergo the course of instruction defined in the APF Parachute Instructor Manual and Appendix O of this manual. This instruction will be given by at least an Instructor C Before being permitted to make a night descent, a trainee will have the prerequisites required by the APF regulations The training descents will be those defined in the APF Night Training Table. See APF regulation and in Appendix O of this manual. 6.5 Water Jump Training Before being permitted to make a first intentional descent into water, the trainee will undergo the course of instruction defined in the APF Parachute Instructor Manual. This instruction will be given by at least an Instructor C May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

27 6.6 First Camera Descent APF regulations specify requirements for camera descents. The following is provided as a guide to DZSO s for a skydiver s first camera descent In addition to satisfying regulatory requirements for camera descents, the DZSO should ensure the prospective camera jumper understands that jumping with any type of camera adds a significant element of risk to any skydive. The risks include: Cameras falling off, creating a hazard to persons and property below; Pilot chute bridles or steering lines entangling with the camera or mount; Distraction from critical safety issues such as gear checks, climb-out/exit timing, freefall and canopy traffic, and time/altitude awareness Skydiver s considering making camera descents should be referred to an experienced current camera jumper, ideally an instructor or coach, for further advice (for example, on equipment suitability and set-up, precautions, procedures) Skydiver s making camera descents should be reminded of their responsibility to report all incidents. USPA s Skydiver s Information Manual contains a useful section on camera flying recommendations. 6.7 DZSO Non-Training Organisation The Operational Regulations: Require all descents be made with the approval of, and under the direct supervision of a Drop Zone Safety Officer (DZSO); Make each parachutist responsible for the appointment of a DZSO prior to the commencement of operations. This applied equally to training and non-training operations; Require that the DZSO for descents other than training descents be the holder of at least a Certificate Class D; and Make the appointed DZSO responsible for ensuring a Ground Control Assistant is appointed and a Loadmaster nominated for each load. This makes the holders of Certificates Class D eligible to act as DZSO s for a non-training operation and so it is important that prior to issue of Class D certification that the candidate receive some training in DZSO responsibilities and their practical application. It is also prudent at this level to include some basic training on acting as a Loadmaster The regulations make the DZSO responsible for ensuring that: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) all parachuting operations are conducted in accordance with APF regulations; all persons involved in parachuting operations are current APF members as required by these regulations; operations are conducted in accordance with the organisation s safety systems; a GCA is appointed and Loadmasters nominated (and TA if required, but not relevant here); measures are in place to account for all parachutists after their descents; all parachutists are qualified for the descent being undertaken; and equipment being used complies with Part 7 of the regulations. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

28 6.8 Loadmaster (LM) The regulations require that a LM be nominated by the DZSO for every load and that the LM is responsible for: (a) (b) (c) conducting a pre-jump briefing before any parachute descents are made, which covers all relevant aspects of the descent, and which includes all persons on board the aircraft including pilot and parachutists; ensuring the airspace and DZ below is clear of conflicting air traffic and any necessary drop clearances have been obtained; and confirming the integrity of the exit point May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

29 PART 7 ADDITIONAL OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES 7.1 Visiting Parachutists Before a visiting parachutist is permitted to make a descent, the DZSO will ensure that the visitor holds a valid parachutist s licence issued by an FAI affiliated organisation or APF student licence, is suitably qualified and has the necessary recent experience to make the proposed descent Before a visiting student is permitted to make a descent, the DZSO will assess the student's experience and ability and will determine the stage at which the visiting student is to resume training. 7.2 Briefings The DZSO or Senior Pilot will ensure that all pilots are fully briefed on: aircraft emergency procedures; circuit requirements and climb and descent patterns; and radio procedures pertaining to parachute operation at the specific location The instructor in charge of students in the aircraft, or the parachutist who will be spotting the aircraft will ensure that the parachutists and operations staff are fully conversant with the following: Parachutists: Exit height(s); Exit order; Number of exits on each jump-run; Tasks to be performed in freefall and under canopy; Break-off heights for RW and freefly; Opening heights; Aircraft emergency procedures. Ground Control Assistant: How meteorological conditions affect descents; Wind limitations; Cloud and visibility limitations Pilot: Exit height(s); Number of jump-runs; Number of exits on each jump-run; Direction of jump-run(s); Approximate exit point; Mode of exit; Planned opening heights of parachutists. Target Assistant: Students requiring target/canopy control assistance; Student gear, despatch order and heights. 7.3 Preparation of Aircraft for Parachuting The DZSO will ensure that the aircraft is properly prepared for parachuting operations. Handcam Requirements are detailed in APF regulations. Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

30 APPENDIX A: Search and Rescue SAMPLE Standard Operating Procedure For: Off Drop Zone Landings 1. Write name on Search and Rescue (SAR) board daily before emplaning. 2. Anybody noticing off-dz landings should report this to manifest immediately. Manifest to inform DZSO. 3. Note approximate area of off-dz landing and how many parachutists. Locate man-made and natural features as a reference. 4. DZSO to co-ordinate and send suitable vehicles to retrieve parachutists. 5. Each jumper must remove their own name from SAR board at the end of jumping/daily. If any name(s) remain after the last load of the day, this will trigger a SAR procedure to locate the missing jumpers. In the event this proves unnecessary, an appropriate fine may be enforced. 6. If someone cannot be located, grid ground search to be coordinated by DZSO. Mobile phones are to be carried by searchers; the central contact phone to be manifest (include phone numbers). 7. If ground search unsuccessful, the aircraft may be used to assist. 8. If this is unsuccessful, DZSO to report to CI and contact appropriate authorities. Note to DZSO: The Operation should have the appropriate rescue equipment to assist in the event of tree recovery and store in an accessible place. A First Aid kit and training in its use should be also available. Torches and a supply of batteries should also be available for conducting search after last light May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

31 APPENDIX B: Student Equipment Main Deployment Procedures Main Deployment Procedure example Chest ripcord with spring loaded pilot chute LOOK REACH GRIP PULL ARCH for the ripcord Continue to look, and place right thumb through ripcord. Left hand moves to a symmetrical and balancing position. Close a fist around the ripcord the ripcord away from the bendex housing to arm s length, and for stability during opening sequence Main Deployment Procedure example Hip ripcord with spring loaded pilot chute LOCATE GRIP PULL ARCH Ripcord, using an open hand Left hand moves to a symmetrical and balancing position. Close a fist around the ripcord the ripcord away from the bendex housing to arm s length, and for stability during opening sequence Main Deployment Procedure example Bottom of Container Throwaway Pilot Chute LOCATE GRIP THROW ARCH Main deployment handle using an open hand; back of hand towards ground the handle, making sure of it the pilot chute to your right as far as you can, still with the back of your hand towards the ground. for stability during opening sequence Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

32 APPENDIX C: Student Equipment Emergency Procedures Emergency Procedures example - Single Operation System LEGS LOOK REACH PUNCH ARCH CLEAR Legs back and pushing our hips forward when the cutaway handle is pulled we will naturally fall back into a "belly to earth" attitude. Look at the yellow cutaway handle. Right thumb through handle - left hand locked over right assist. Punch down and out with the right hand pulling the reserve handle to full arm s length. for stability during opening sequence Look at the reserve cable housing. Use left hand to clear cables completely from housing. Check that the red handle has gone. Emergency Procedures example Dual Operation System (DOS) LEGS LOOK LOCATE LOOK LOCATE PEEL PUNCH PULL ARCH Bring your legs back for symmetry as you move your hands in the following procedures so as you remain belly to earth (and arch your back) for cutaway handle your right hand on the cutaway handle for reserve ripcord reserve ripcord, placing a thumb through it and taking a grip the cutaway away from the Velcro with an upward twisting motion cutaway pad, aim for your feet, to full arm extension reserve, aim for your feet, to full arm extension arms wide, hands still gripping cutaway and reserve cables May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

33 Emergency Procedures example Two Action System (TAS) LEGS LOOK LOCATE LOOK LOCATE PEEL PUNCH PULL ARCH Bring your legs back for symmetry as you move your hands in the following procedures so as you remain belly to earth. for cutaway handle your right hand on the cutaway handle for reserve ripcord Reserve ripcord, placing a thumb through it and taking a grip the cutaway away from the Velcro with an upward twisting motion cutaway pad, aim for your feet, to full arm extension reserve, aim for your feet, to full arm extension Arms wide, hands still gripping cutaway and reserve cables Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

34 APPENDIX D: Sample Pre First Jump Assessment Student s Name: Date: Course Instructor: Students please note: Keep answers as short as possible while answering fully - use KEY words. Prior to Emplaning: 1. If you have any questions about your jump, who do you ask? How many hours prior to jumping is it not permitted to drink alcohol? From which direction do you approach an aircraft? What is the final check to be performed by your instructor prior to boarding the aircraft? The Ride to Height: 5. Why is it important to remain still in the aircraft? In the event of an aircraft emergency, who will you take instruction from and what will you do? 7. If a parachute container opens inside the aircraft, what must you do? If your parachute begins to escape out of the door of the aircraft, what must you do? Exit: 9. What SIGNAL will your instructor give so you know when to start your climb out from the aircraft? Draw (in box below) and describe your body position immediately after exit: head arms legs body Why is a good body position prior to canopy opening so important? Static-Line ONLY: What do you do if you experience a static-line hang-up? May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.

35 Freefall AFF ONLY: 13. What does it mean if your jumpmaster(s) shake you after exit? What do you do if you have only one jumpmaster at your side after exit? What do you do if you have NO jumpmasters at your side after exit? If a jumpmaster shows you a FIST in freefall, what do you do? How long does it take to freefall: a) the first 1000 ft? seconds. b) the next 1000 ft? seconds. 18. Why is the awareness check at 5500 ft so important? At what height on your first jump do you commence your main deployment procedure? ft 20. If you experience a hard pull on your main deployment procedure, what must you do? a) First? b) If you still can t pull it? If you look for (locate) your main ripcord (pilot chute) but cannot see (feel) it, what must you do? a) First? b) If you still can t find it? What is a pilot-chute hesitation? and how do you solve it? Parachute Opening: 23. Why do you count one thousand (etc) after deploying your main parachute (or for SL, on exit)? You have counted to six-thousand and felt no opening shock. What do you do? 25. You feel opening shock on your main canopy. What do you do next? What are you checking for to ensure you have a good canopy? What do you do if you feel opening shock and look up and see: a) a canopy that is 50% or less of its full size? b) canopy spinning quickly to the left? c) a fully open canopy, but one steering toggle will not release? d) a fully open canopy with the slider part way down the lines? e) a slowly turning canopy, with an end cell collapsed? Australian Parachute Federation Inc. 1 May

36 f) a fully open canopy, with the slider at the bottom of the lines? List the key words for your reserve parachute drill: What is the minimum safe height to begin your reserve procedures? feet 30. How do you steer and land your reserve canopy? If your canopy has line twists, what must you NOT do to worsen the situation? 32. In the event of having two canopies out, what would your actions be for the following circumstances? a) If the canopies are touching? b) If the canopies are not touching? c) If one canopy is not inflated, hanging below you? On the picture (to the right), draw the position of the steering/brake toggles: 34. What colour are the main steering/brake toggles? How do you release the brakes? After you have checked your canopy and you have released the brakes, what do you do next? Under Canopy: 37. How do you stall your main canopy? How do you control your recovery from a stall? What happens to the rate of descent of your canopy in the following situations? Will it increase or decrease? During a turn: During a flare: During a stall: May 2015 Australian Parachute Federation Inc.