## How Long Are You Falling When You Skydive?
Skydiving is an exhilarating experience that involves jumping out of an airplane and freefalling for several minutes before deploying a parachute and gliding to the ground. The duration of the freefall portion of a skydive depends on several factors, including:
1. Altitude:
The higher you jump from, the longer you will freefall. Common jump altitudes range from:
Tandem jumps (with an instructor): 10,000-14,000 feet
Solo jumps (with proper training): 13,000-18,000 feet
2. Body Position:
Your body position during freefall affects your speed and, therefore, the duration of the fall. Different positions include:
Stable Position: Arms and legs extended, body relaxed (slows descent)
Head-Down Position: Diving headfirst (increases speed)
Backflip Position: Flipping backward (increases speed)
3. Weather Conditions:
Wind speed and direction can alter your falling speed. A tailwind (wind blowing in the same direction as your fall) will increase your speed, while a headwind (wind blowing opposite to your fall) will slow you down.
4. Parachute Deployment:
The moment you deploy your parachute marks the end of the freefall. The typical deployment altitude ranges from:
Tandem jumps: 5,000-7,000 feet
Solo jumps: 3,000-5,000 feet
Duration Estimates:
Given these variables, the following estimates provide a general idea of freefall durations:
Tandem jumps: 60-90 seconds
Solo jumps: 45-75 seconds (based on a 13,000-foot jump)
Additional Considerations:
Wind Tunnel Experience: Training in a wind tunnel prior to skydiving can improve body control and reduce freefall time.
Air Density: Higher altitudes have lower air density, which reduces air resistance and increases falling speed.
Individual Factors: Weight, height, and wingspan can also influence freefall duration.
Conclusion:
The duration of a skydive’s freefall portion can vary significantly depending on several factors. A typical tandem jump freefall lasts around 60-90 seconds, while solo jumps often range from 45-75 seconds. Understanding these factors can help you anticipate the length of your freefall and maximize your skydiving experience.