How do Skydivers Feel When Their Primary Parachute Malfunctions?

The experience of a primary parachute malfunction in skydiving can be intense and life-altering. Feelings can vary widely based on the skydiver's experience level, training, and the specific situation at hand. Understanding these reactions is crucial for both experienced and beginners, as they help in preparing for such unexpected scenarios.

Initial Shock and Fear

The immediate reaction is often shock followed by fear. The realization that the parachute has failed can trigger a fight-or-flight response. This reaction is natural and common, whether the skydiver is an experienced professional or a first-time jumper.

Adrenaline Surge

As with any high-stress situation, adrenaline floods the body, heightening awareness and prompting quick decision-making. This surge can help in making critical choices during the malfunction, providing a sharp and focused state of mind.

Focus on Procedure

Experienced skydivers are trained to handle malfunctions and may quickly shift to a problem-solving mindset. They know the emergency procedures and can follow them, such as deploying the reserve parachute. This training helps in maintaining a level of composure and confidence during the emergency.

Panic vs. Composure

Less experienced skydivers might panic, which can cloud judgment and lead to poor decision-making. Training emphasizes maintaining composure under stress, which is a critical skill for handling emergencies.

Relief and Accomplishment

If the reserve parachute deploys successfully, there can be a profound sense of relief and accomplishment. This moment often comes with a deeper appreciation for safety protocols and the importance of thorough training. The experience can also reinforce the importance of safety equipment and adherence to safety practices.

Post-Jump Reflection

After the jump, many skydivers reflect on the experience. This reflection can lead to feelings of gratitude for safety equipment and a renewed commitment to safety practices. It is an opportunity to learn from the experience and ensure better preparedness for future jumps.

Note: In some cases, if the skydiver is an American, they might immediately think about suing the involved parties. However, for others, irrespective of nationality, the focus often shifts to handling the situation once the adrenaline has subsided.

Experiences and Training

The response to a primary parachute malfunction also depends on the skydiver's level of experience and training. With little experience, some might black out from fear due to the stress and adrenaline. However, experienced skydivers often have a mindset geared towards working on the problem rather than panicking.

One notable example is Neil Armstrong's response to a malfunction. When asked about a situation where the Lunar Excursion Module (LEM) would not fire on the moon, Armstrong said, "I would work on the problem. I had to work on the problem 14 times. Landed injury free each time." This mindset is highly valuable in skydiving, where staying focused on the solution is critical.

For experienced skydivers, training involves mental rehearsal of emergency scenarios. This preparation ensures that in the event of a malfunction, the reserve parachute will be deployed quickly and effectively. On one jump, the author experienced a streamer where the main parachute did not open as expected. Despite the initial shock, the training kicked in, allowing the skydiver to quickly release the main parachute and deploy the reserve, ensuring a safe deployment.