scottthefreak

Depending on your experience level (checked the profile, but didn't see anything), you should take things slowly! Keep in mind that as you bring your maneuvers closer to the ground, you will encounter more and more variables (i.e. obstacles, canopy traffic, aircraft, etc..). You could think of it like flying into a funnel. The closer you get to the ground, the more active things become. Granted, you should always be aware of your surroundings but when you start high performance landings, things speed up and your awareness level needs to increase accordingly. ALWAYS have an out!! Anticipate the unexpected and NEVER stop flying your canopy!! Also, when you decide to bring these drills down to the landing area, pick an area with as few obstacles as possible and start small! Talk to the experienced people on your dropzone before you take things to the next level, ask questions, get advice. Nobody will fault you for taking the educated conservative route. Good Luck! Fly Safe!!!

I'm a firm believer in the art of self preservation!! If you are even questioning the conditions, sit it out! If you are on your way to altitude and get word from the pilot that things have kicked up and become squirly on the ground, don't be afraid to ride the plane down. Sure, you may get a little crap from the invincibles but at least you know you'll be walking at the end of the day. If you do find yourself in less than favorable conditions, NEVER STOP FLYING YOUR CANOPY!! Land in the cleanest air possible (away from obstacles), and FLY YOUR CANOPY!! Too many people get freaked out and tense when flying in bumpy conditions. All too often you see people doing things they wouldn't normally do (i.e. flaring at twenty feet, making sudden changes, using poor judgement, etc..) under canopy when conditions are less than ideal. Use good judgement, keep yourself calm, get yourself to the ground safe......