## How to Plan a Track Dive Skydiving Flight Path
Track diving is a thrilling skydiving discipline that involves flying in formation with other skydivers. To ensure a safe and successful track dive, careful flight path planning is essential. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your track dive flight path:
### Pre-Jump Planning
1. Determine Team Size and Roles:
Decide on the number of skydivers participating in the track dive.
Assign roles such as leader, wing, and camera jumper.
2. Choose a Jump Altitude:
Select an altitude that is appropriate for the level of skydivers and the complexity of the formation you intend to fly.
3. Establish an Exit Point:
Determine the specific location from where the skydivers will exit the aircraft.
4. Draw a Flight Plan:
Sketch out a rough plan of the track you want to fly, including turns, altitudes, and spacing.
### Airborne Planning
5. Establish Communication:
Ensure all skydivers have functional communication devices and are familiar with the hand signals and verbal cues that will be used during the dive.
6. Visualize the Flight Path:
Before exiting the aircraft, picture the entire flight path in your mind. This will help you stay oriented during the dive.
7. Pre-Wingsuit Check:
If using wingsuits, perform a thorough pre-wingsuit check to ensure proper functionality.
### Exit and Initial Descent
8. Exit Sequence:
Exit the aircraft in the order established during pre-jump planning.
9. Initial Stabilization:
Aim to stabilize your fall rate and maintain a horizontal position before attempting any maneuvers.
10. Altitude Callouts:
Communicate altitudes regularly to ensure everyone is at the same level.
### Track Dive Maneuvers
11. Turn Initiation:
Initiate turns by applying opposing forces (e.g., right leg and left hand) and maintain alignment with your formation partners.
12. Altitude Adjustments:
As needed, adjust your altitude to stay within the desired flight path.
13. Formation Flying:
Fly in close proximity to your formation partners, maintaining the desired spacing and angles.
### Conclusion
14. Exit Formation:
Signal the end of the formation and execute exit maneuvers as planned.
15. Canopy Deployment:
Deploy parachutes at the appropriate altitude and maintain visual contact with your team members.
16. Post-Jump Debrief:
After landing, discuss the flight path and any areas for improvement to enhance future track dives.
### Additional Considerations
Safety: Always prioritize safety and follow established skydiving protocols.
Training: Attend track diving workshops and train with experienced instructors to develop the necessary skills.
Weather Conditions: Ensure favorable weather conditions for the jump.
Equipment Maintenance: Maintain all equipment in good condition and perform pre-jump checks.
Contingency Plan: Develop a contingency plan in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Redactor