## Tandem Skydiving: The Use of Automatic Activation Devices
Tandem skydiving is a popular activity that allows people to experience the thrill of skydiving without having to go through the training required for solo skydiving. Tandem skydiving involves jumping out of an airplane with a certified instructor who is attached to you by a harness. This way, you can enjoy the experience without having to worry about controlling the parachute or landing.
One of the safety features that is often used in tandem skydiving is an automatic activation device (AAD). An AAD is a small electronic device that is attached to the jumper’s harness. It is designed to automatically deploy the reserve parachute if the jumper fails to do so manually.
How an AAD Works
An AAD uses a variety of sensors to monitor the jumper’s altitude, speed, and acceleration. If the AAD detects that the jumper has not deployed the main parachute after a certain amount of time, it will automatically activate the reserve parachute.
The AAD is typically activated by a combination of factors, including:
Altitude: The AAD will activate if the jumper reaches a certain altitude without deploying the main parachute. This altitude is typically set at around 2,000 feet.
Speed: The AAD will activate if the jumper’s speed exceeds a certain threshold. This threshold is typically set at around 120 miles per hour.
Acceleration: The AAD will activate if the jumper experiences a sudden acceleration, such as a fall or a collision.
Benefits of Using an AAD
There are a number of benefits to using an AAD in tandem skydiving. These benefits include:
Increased safety: An AAD can help to prevent serious injuries or death in the event that the jumper fails to deploy the main parachute manually.
Peace of mind: Using an AAD can give jumpers peace of mind, knowing that they are protected in the event of an emergency.
Convenience: An AAD is easy to use and does not require any special training.
Limitations of AADs
While AADs are a valuable safety device, they do have some limitations. These limitations include:
False alarms: AADs can sometimes be activated accidentally, even if the jumper is not in danger. This can be a nuisance and can lead to unnecessary reserve parachute deployments.
Delayed activation: AADs can take a few seconds to activate after they are triggered. This delay can be critical in the event of a sudden emergency.
Cost: AADs can be expensive to purchase and maintain.
Conclusion
AADs are a valuable safety device that can help to prevent serious injuries or death in tandem skydiving. However, it is important to be aware of the limitations of AADs and to use them in conjunction with other safety measures.
FAQs
Is it mandatory to use an AAD in tandem skydiving?
No, AADs are not mandatory in tandem skydiving. However, they are highly recommended for all jumpers, regardless of their experience level.
What is the cost of an AAD?
The cost of an AAD can vary depending on the model and features. However, most AADs cost between $500 and $1,000.
How often should an AAD be inspected?
AADs should be inspected by a certified technician every year.
Can an AAD be used in solo skydiving?
Yes, AADs can be used in solo skydiving. However, they are not as common as they are in tandem skydiving.
What are some other safety measures that can be used in tandem skydiving?
In addition to AADs, there are a number of other safety measures that can be used in tandem skydiving, such as:
Wearing a helmet
Wearing a jumpsuit
Using a harness
Having a certified instructor
Jumping from a reputable skydiving company