C I V IL A V IATI O N 

SAFETY AUT HORITY 

A USTRALIA 

Civil Aviation 

Advisory Publication 

August2002 

This publication is only 

advisory. It gives the 

preferred method for 

complying with the Civil 

Aviation Regulations 1988 

(CAR 1988). 

It is not the only method, 

but experience has shown 

that if you follow this 

method you will comply 

with CAR 1988. 

A lways read this advice in 

conjunction with the 

appropriate regulations. 

Contents ... 

I. Background 3 

2. Application process 3 

3. Approvals are 

available to the 

public 3 

4. Assessing an 

application 4 

5. Approval criteri a 4 

Appendix 

AFP Advisory 

Circular 9 

CAAP 152-1 (0) 

Parachuting Through Cloud: 

Evaluation of applications by 

parachuting operators and issue of 

approvals by CASA 

The relevant regulations 

• Regulation 152 of Civil Aviation Regulations 1988 (CAR 

1988) 

• Specifications issued by CASA under regulation 152 

• Regulations in this CAAP are regulations under CAR 

1988 

Who this CAAP applies to 

• Sp ort Aviation organisations (the Australian Parachute 

Federation Inc and the Au stralian Skydiving 

Association Inc) administering sport p arachuting. 

• Spor t parachuting operators. 

• Sport parachu tists. 

Why this publication was written 

Specifications issu ed under regulation 152 have been 

amended to permit parachutists to enter cloud in the 

course of a descent in locations where this has been 

authorised by CASA Approvals will be issu ed on a caseby-case basis after analysis of the risks and hazardmitigating strategies available, by iss uing a locationspecific instrument as a further specification under 

regulation 152. 

This CAAP offers guidance to p arachuting operators 

seeking such approvals, and outlines the criteria CASA will 

use in assessing such applications and the kinds of 

op erational conditions that may be specified in granting 

approvals. 

Compliance with the relevant conditions 

will not only enhance the safety of-other 

airspace users and of parachutists, but will 

also promote good airmanship and 

situational awareness of all airspace users 

in the area. 

August 2002 
CMP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 2 

Status of this CAAP 

This is the first CAAP to be written on permissions for 

parachutists to enter cloud under certain conditions. 

For further information 

Contact the Operational Standards Section of CASA' s 

Operational & Flight Crew Licensing Standards Branch in 

Canberra, at GPO Box 2005, CANBERRA ACf 2601 

(telephone 131 757) 

August 2002 
3 

1. Background 

2. Application process 

3. Approvals are available 

to the public 

CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 

1.1 CASA and an industry risk management consultant 

have developed two mathematical models to evaluate the 

probability of a collision or a near-miss occurring between 

parachutists, whether descending under canopy or in freefall, and aircraft flying through the airspace surrounding 

the drop zone. 

1.2 Because the relative movement of parachutists in 

freefall is perpendicular to that of aircraft, the potential 

geometry of any collision makes visual manoeuvring to 

avoid an impending collision ineffective and improbable in 

most cases. Therefore, CASA will require certain 

conditions to be met, depending on the particular mix of 

traffic, airspace, facilities and terrain that exists at each 

location. This CAAP seeks to provide guidance for 

applicants (parachuting clubs and operators), parachuting 

administering organisations and CASA staff assessing 

applications, in order to simplify the process of issuing 

approvals. 

2.1 An applicant (parachuting operator) must make a 

separate application for each drop zone at which it is 

proposed to seek approval to make parachute jumps that 

may involve parachutists entering cloud. Applicants may 

suggest measures that they propose to adopt to mitigate 

risk when making initial or subsequent applications. 

2.2 The application should be sent to the parachuting 

administering organisation with which the operator is 

affiliated. This organisation will make an initial assessment 

of the proposal and may refer it back to the operator for 

clarification, further information or amendment. 

2.3 When the parachuting administration organisation is 

satisfied that the request satisfies the safety criteria, e.g. by 

meeting Appendix 1 (the Australian Parachute Federation's 

relevant advisory material), it will forward the application to 

CASA with its recommendation. 

2.4 If CASA is satisfied that conditions can be applied so 

as to constrain the proposed operation to acceptable levels 

of safety, it will then issue an approval as a supplementary 

specification under regulation 152. 

3.1 Approvals to conduct parachute descents through 

cloud are legal instruments made by CASA in accordance 

August 2002 
CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 4 

4. Assessing an 

application 

5. Approval Criteria 

with regulation 152. CASA may make such instruments as 

Civil Aviation Orders (CAO) or otherwise in writing, and 

in this case will follow the latter course of action. As such 

the instruments will be listed in the CASA register of 

instruments and published on the CASA Internet site. 

3.2 CASA may, either independently or on the advice or 

request of a parachuting administering organisation or 

other interested party, review an instrument approving 

parachuting in cloud. CASA is able to cancel, suspend or 

vary an instrument and is likely to do so for reasons of the 

safety of air navigation or on reasonable indication that 

conditions have been breached or are no longer relevant to 

the situation pertaining at the applicable location. 

4.1 CASA will review the assessment of the parachuting 

administering organisation in respect of each application 

against the two risk analysis models, using data provided 

by the parachute operator as to the amount of parachuting 

activity which occurs or is expected to occur, together with 

a consideration of the airspace, terrain, traffic mix and 

aeronautical facilities and services available for risk 

mitigation. 

4.2 Conditions and requirements appropriate to the 

location will be imposed on any approval issued. 

5.1 The parachuting operator will be required to provide 

appropriately qualified flight crew and appropriately 

equipped aircraft. In addition to the requirements of the 

standard regulation 152 specification to members of the 

parachuting administering organisations, these shall 

require: 

• Where flight in IMC is involved, or where conditions 

indicate the likelihood of flight in IMC, the pilot-incommand must hold at least a Command Instrument 

Rating (CIR), or a PIFR if the holder has 

accumulated not less than the total instrument flight 

experience required by CAO 40.2.1 to hold a CIR. 

August2002 
5 CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 

• Where flight in VMC above more than 4/8 cloud is 

involved, the pilot must be qualified to navigate by 

radionavigation aids, either by having these 

endorsed on a OR, a PIFR or a NVFR rating, or by 

log-book endorsement. 

• IFR flight notification is to be submitted to 

Airservices Australia where the forecast indicates 

flight in IMC, with provision for an instrument 

approach to be made where the forecast indicates 

greater than 4/8 cloud below the applicable route or 

area LSALT plus 500 ft. (Refer to AIP ENR 1.10-4 

paragraph 2.2, ENR 1.10 paragraph 1.8.1, and ENR 

1.1 paragraph 69.2.11 b) 

• where flight in IMC below the LSALT for any route 

segment in the vicinity is involved (or the 10-mile 

LSALT surrounding an aerodrome with an IAL 

procedure), the pilot must hold appropriate flight 

procedure authorisations (FPAs) or navigation aid 

endorsements. 

• the pilot to meet the recency requirements specified 

in CAO 40.2.1 for IFR flight where flight in IMC 

occurs or is required to be planned, including 

navigation aid recency on the applicable aids where 

the forecast or actual weather reports indicate IMC 

below the relevant l.SALT plus 500ft (AlP ENR 1.1 

paragraphs 69.2.11 and 69.3.2). 

• the aircraft to have at least one serviceable VHF 

radio for operation in Class G airspace. Failure of 

this radio after take-off shall require the parachutists 

to be dropped so that they can remain clear of cloud, 

or the aircraft return to land without dropping the 

parachutists. 

• the aircraft to have at least one serviceable VHF 

radio for operation entirely in Class C or D airspace 

or wholly within an MBZ or CTAF. Failure of this 

radio after take-off shall require the parachute 

descent to be abandoned unless other means of 

communication with ATS or a Unicorn or certified 

A/ G operator, where this service is provided, can be 

established 

• the aircraft to have at least two serviceable VHF 

radios for operation in overlying FIR airspace 

dropping parachutists into an MBZ or CTAF, or for 

dropping through controlled airspace (Class C, D or 

E) into an underlying MBZ or CIAF, or into 

August2002 
CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 6 

underlying FIR airspace. Both radios must be 

serviceable for a descent from controlled airspace 

into an MBZ, or at busy locations specified by 

CAS A. 

5.2 In controlled airspace within radar coverage, or 

where a RIS is available, the drop shall not proceed until 

the pilot has obtained confirmation from ATS that they do 

not have any conflicting traffic in or below controlled 

airspace identified on radar. In this situation the lowest 

cloud shall not be lower than the limits of radar coverage. 

5.3 Where descents will involve entry into controlled 

airspace, or the routine provision of radar traffic 

information, a letter of agreement between the operator 

and Airservices Australia shall be in place and its terms 

shall be adhered to when descents that require the 

provision of these services. take place 

5.4 The drop aircraft shall be required to have an 

operating transponder, set to a code as determined by 

Airservices Australia, for all parachute descents. 

5.5 The lowest cloud exceeding 4/8 coverage of the sky 

must not be less than 1000 feet above the highest terrain 

within 5 NM of the target or 1000 feet above the planned 

opening height for the parachutists, whichever is the 

higher. Parachutists must not open their canopies in cloud 

except in emergency. Opening in cloud is to be a notifiable 

incident in accordance with the Sport Aviation 

Organisation's approved procedures. 

5.6 The operator should identify a senior pilot to have 

authority and responsibility for induction and rostering of 

pilots and overall safety of the aircraft operation. 

5.7 For navigation using GPS at night or in IMC, the 

aircraft must be fitted with GPS navigation equipment that 

complies with a TSO, ATSO or other IFR approval for 

enroute navigation, or for non-precision approaches, as 

applicable to the flight. For enroute navigation the 

database must show current airspace, navigation aids and 

reporting points in the area of intended operations. For 

non-precision approaches the database must show the 

current waypoints and data for the approach( es) likely to 

be flown. 

August2002 
7 CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 

5.8 A change of key personnel (Chief Instructor, senior 

pilot, operator's management) or use of an aircraft of 

greater capacity than advised in the original approval must 

be notified to CASA, who may review the approval and 

vary conditions attached if necessary. 

5.9 Other grounds for reviewing the approval will be a 

change in traffic levels (particularly passenger transport 

services or IFR operations with 10 or more passengers), 

nearby airspace structure, provision or withdrawal of ATS 

facilities and services, or increased levels of parachuting 

activity, whether on a permanent or temporary basis. 

Not all operations may be found suitable to conduct 

parachute descents through cloud. Approvals should 

initially be issued with a validity period not exceeding 12 

months. Where experience indicates a satisfactory level 

of safety, these may be renewed for a period up to 3 years. 

Bill Mcintyre 

Executive Manager 

Aviation Safety Standards Division 

August2002 
CMP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 8 

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August2002 
9 CMP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 

APF Advisory Circular 

AC 1 Rev C March 2002 

This AC provides recommendations and guidance to 

illustrate several methods (which may not be the only 

methods) to meet the legislative requirements of CASA 

and the APF for parachute descents through cloud 

CONTENTS 

1. Purpose 1 

2. References 1 

3. Interpretation 2 

4. Application 3 

5. The Procedures Manual 4 

6. Duties and responsibilities 5 

7. Consultation with Industry 5 

8. The local Airspace Manager 6 

9. Assessing an application 6 

10. Aircraft operations- VFR or IFR 6 

11. Airspace considerations 7 

12. Declaring the airspace clear 9 

13. DZ topographical considerations9 

14. Safety of parachutists 10 

15. Safety systems 11 

Appendix A -Suggested format 13 

1. PURPOSE 

Appendix B - Checklist 14 

The purpose of this Advisory Circular (AC) 

is to provide guidance and information for 

parachuting organisations wanting 

permission from the APF and CASA for 

suitably qualified APF Members to jump 

through cloud at their DZ. 

2. REFERENCES 

This Advisory Circular (AC) should be read 

in conjunction with CASA Civil Aviation 

Advisory Publication - CAAP 152-1 (latest 

issue) Assessment of applications for 

approval of parachute descents through 

cloud. 

Airservices Australia Aeronautical 

Information Publication (AlP) ENR 5.5 

specifies requirements in respect to 

parachuting operations at Licensed 

Aerodromes, Class B, C, D & E airspace 

and MBZs. 

Aeronautical Information Circular AIC 

H8/97 provides additional advisory 

material. 

Airservices Australia Manual of Air Traffic 

Services (MATS) 18-3-5 describes how 

ATC will separate jump aircraft from other 

traffic. 

August2002 
CMP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 10 

3. INTERPRETATION 

In this AC the interpretation will be that from CAR 2, or APF Op Regs, or that following: 

APF Operational Regulations (Op Regs) means regulations approved by CASA and issued 

by the APF, which are binding on Members. 

APF Organisation (organisation) means any club, organisation, centre, corporation, 

company or other institution, association or community, in whatever legal form (but excluding 

any natural person), and whether or not an APF member organisation recognised by the APF 

as having purposes consistent with the purposes of the Federation. 

Applicant means the person making an application on behalf of an APF Organisation. 

ATC means Air Traffic Control provided by Airservices Australia. 

Cloud ceiling means the height above the ground or water of the base of the lowest layer of 

cloud below 20,000FT covering more than one-half of the sky. 

Controlled Airspace means airspace of defined dimensions within which air traffic control 

services are provided to IFR flights and to VFR flights in accordance with the airspace 

classification. 

DZSO (Drop Zone Safety Officer) means, when student or novice training descents are in 

progress, the Chief Instructor or at least the Instructor "B" whom he has appointed to 

supervise training; or when student or novice training descents are not in progress, the 

holder of at least a Parachutist Certificate "D" appointed prior to the commencement of the 

operation. 

Elevation means the vertical distance of a point or a level, on or affixed to the surface of the 

earth, measured from mean sea level. 

Height means the vertical distance of a level, a point or an object considered as a point 

measured from as specific datum, or the vertical dimension of an object. 

ICAO means International Civil Aviation Organisation. 

IFR means Instrument Flight Rules. IFR must be used by flights conducted in circumstances 

other than those specified for VFR and Special VFR. See AlP ENR 1.3. 

IMC means Instrument Meteorological Conditions 

Loadmaster means the person who, by agreement with those involved, attends to the pre 

jump briefing. Directs the jump aircraft over the target to the desired exit point. Ensures the 

airspace above the cloud is clear of all traffic that is likely to conflict with the parachutists, 

and, when the PIC authorises, permits the parachutists to exit. Where jumping through cloud 

is contemplated the Loadmaster must hold at least an APF/FAI Certificate D. 

LSAL T means the lowest safe altitude, which will provide safe terrain clearance at a given 

place. 

Manifester is a term used to describe the person who maintains the Master Log in which all 

descents carried out by the organisation are recorded. If the organisation's procedures rely 

August 2002 
11 CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 

on the competency of the Manifester then the duties and responsibilities of the person shall 

be defined. 

Night VFR (NGT VFR) means flight at night under VFR. 

Opening Height means the height at which the parachutist activates the main parachute. 

(Not to be confused with the height at which the parachute canopy opens). The parachute 

must be opened by 1800ft AGL except that on a tandem descent the parachute must be 

open by 4000ft AGL. 

Procedures mean the procedures or manual that describes, in detail, the procedures that 

apply when parachute descents are being made through cloud. It may incorporate the 

Training Operations Manual and or Op Regs or stand-alone. 

PIC means pilot in command. 

PJE aircraft means an aircraft engaged in a parachute jump exercise. 

Relative Work Descent means a descent in which the participants attempt to bring 

themselves together, or near each other, during free fall. 

Responsible person means the person, or position within the organisation, that the APF 

holds responsible for ensuring that jumping through cloud is undertaken strictly in 

accordance with the procedures approved by CASA. It could be, for example, the Chief 

Executive Officer, Chief Instructor or DZSO. (This does not prevent CASA from also holding 

others responsible). 

Tandem Descent means a descent in which two participants exit the aircraft linked to a 

common harness/parachute system with the object of landing under a single parachute. The 

Tandem Master "pilot" is an instructor endorsed for tandem and the "passenger" the holder of 

at least a Student Parachutist Licence. 

TCO (Target Control Officer) means the person appointed by the DZSO who is responsible 

for communicating with the jump aircraft as to the advisability of exiting the aircraft. It should 

be noted that a person using a radio to communicate with an aircraft in flight is required to 

hold a Flight Radio Operator's Licence or Aircraft Radio Operator's Certificate of Proficiency. 

VFR means Visual Flight Rules. AlP ENR 1.2-1 stipulates that VFR flight may only be 

conducted in VMC. 

VMC means Visual Meteorological Conditions and its meaning for each class of airspace is 

described in AlP ENR 1.2-2. 

4. APPLICATION 

Organisations seeking approval to undertake descents through cloud need to apply in writing 

to the APF. The application needs to specify the name of the organisation on whose behalf 

the application is made and the Drop Zone (DZ), or DZs, for which approval is sought. The 

latitude and longitude of each DZ must be specified. 

The application shall name the person (The "Responsible Person") who will take overall 

responsibility for the safe conduct of parachute descents through cloud. The duties and 

responsibilities of this person, the PIC, DZSO and TCO and all others who have a role to 

play (ie the Manifester) should be specified. 

August 2002 
CAAP 152-1 {0): Parachuting through cloud 12 

It is recommended the application take the form of a covering letter and Procedures Manual 

that describes how the organisation will manage parachute descents through cloud at the 

particular DZ (or DZs if more than one is to be covered by the same procedures). It is further 

recommended that the procedures for jumping through cloud also include those that apply to 

"normal operations" so that: 

• The duties and responsibilities of all those involved are clearly defined, 

• Those involved need only refer to one set of procedures for all operations, 

• The organisation can seamlessly-shift from "normal" to through-cloud operations, 

• It is easier to flow-chart the daily routine and identify where procedures should provide 

options that take account of changes brought about through, for example, changing 

weather conditions. 

There are other factors to consider depending on whether the organisation is training or nontraining. For example: 

Training operations: An approved training operation will already have certain procedures in 

place. It will have a Chief Instructor (CI) who takes responsibility for training operations. It 

will have a Training Operations Manual (TOM) that, together with the APF Op Regs, 

prescribes in general terms, how the DZ will operate. It may already have procedures that 

address "administrative matters" that can be adapted to take account of the particular 

requirements for jumping through cloud. It is for the organisation to decide whether the 

application is on the basis of a stand-alone manual, or the procedures for jumping through 

cloud are integrated with other procedures. 

Non-training operation: Parachutists with a Certificate B or higher are not students or 

novices and are allowed to operate on their own. Generally speaking though, members of a 

non-training organisations operate concurrently with a training operation. If separate from a 

training operation the non-training organisation must appoint a DZSO. If it seeks approval for 

its members to undertake descents through cloud it will need to nominate a person to be the 

Responsible Person for all aspects of the operation - this might be the DZSO but equally it 

could be someone else. It is unlikely a non-training organisation will already have a 

Procedures Manual and so applicants are encouraged to use the format in Appendix A as 

the basis for their own. 

5. THE PROCEDURES MANUAL 

This AC at Appendix A contains headings for a Procedures Manual that, if expanded to take 

account of the local airspace and topography should under most circumstances, be a 

suitable starting point for applicants wanting authorisation for jumping through cloud under 

the auspices of a particular organisation at a particular DZ (or DZs). 

Alternatively, a relatively large organisation that includes training and non-training activities 

might wish to take a different approach and state how their present procedures (modified in a 

particular way) address every requirement of CAAP 152-1 and this AC. As mentioned, this 

approach might suit those who need to satisfy the APF and CASA that their existing 

procedures (suitably modified) satisfy the standard. 

To aid applicants as well as APF and CASA officers considering applications, a checklist of 

essential requirements is included as Appendix B to this AC. 

August 2002 
13 CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 

The Director Safety and Director Aircraft Operations will not recommend to CASA any 

Procedures Manual which does not comply with all essential requirements of CMP 152-1 

and AC 1 Rev C. 

6. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

It is important that the duties and responsibilities of all those with a role to play are clearly 

defined and understood. Applicants are encouraged to include an organisational chart with 

the duties of each key person and the relationship of one to the other. As an example: 

The Responsible person shall: 

• Prepare and submit the application with the operational procedures for the location, 

• Train and brief the pilot, Load master, DZSO and TCO in the descent through cloud 

procedures, 

• Certify them as competent to perform their respective duties, 

• Supervise jumping through cloud operations. 

• Determine the meteorological conditions prior to jumping through cloud operations, 

• Consult with the pilot when VFR flying operations are planned in cloudy conditions, 

• Authorise and supervise the through cloud operations each day, 

• Check the currency of IFR rated pilots when IFR operations are involved, 

• Ensure the pre-jump briefings are held prior to each descent, and 

• Delegate to the DZSO these responsibilities when not present on the OZ. 

The Pilot shall: 

• Attend the pre-jump briefing and comply with the arrangements made at the briefing, 

• Obtain clearances from ATC, the DZSO or TCO, as applicable, to ensure the airspace is 

clear of aircraft prior to giving the clearance/permission to the parachutists to exit. 

The Loadmaster shall: 

• Attend the pre-jump briefing and comply with the arrangements made at the briefing, 

• During the jump run ensure that the airspace above the cloud is clear of all aircraft that 

are likely to conflict with the parachutists and advise the pilot, and wait for the pilot to 

give the approval to exit before permitting the parachutists to leave the aircraft. 

The Manifester shall: 

• Where the meteorological conditions are such that it is likely parachutist may pass 

through cloud, manifest only those authorised to jump through cloud, 

• Monitor the VHF Base Station radio and ensure the DZSO (or TCO) is notified of an 

impending exit through cloud. 

The DZSO or TCO shall: 

• Attend the pre-jump briefing and comply with the arrangements made at the briefing, 

• Three minutes prior to the exit of the parachutists, be located on the DZ in an area with 

the best possible view of the airspace below the cloud through which the parachutists 

will descend, 

• Observe the airspace to ensure that there are no aircraft there that would conflict with 

the descent of the parachutists, 

• Advise the pilot of the jump aircraft when the airspace below the cloud is clear, just prior 

to the parachutists leaving the aircraft, and 

• Delegate these responsibilities when not on the ground. 

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CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 14 

7. CONSULTATION WITH INDUSTRY 

Each State/Territory has a Regional Airspace Users Advisory Committee (RAPAC) that 

provides a forum for local stakeholders to review proposals from CASA and/or Airservices 

Australia and/or Industry. The organisation is to obtain the support of RAPAC before 

submitting an application to the APF. It is conceivable that RAPAC support might be 

conditional on CASA agreeing to vary the current airspace. For example, creating a Danger 

Area or changing a Danger Area to a Restricted Area or creating a CTAF or changing a 

CT AF to a MBZ. 

In the case of a licensed aerodrome, the operation needs to come to some understanding, 

preferably by means of a Letter of Agreement, with the Aerodrome Owner/Operator, or the 

local District Office of CASA. AlP ENR 5.5-5 refers. See also Air Services Australia website. 

8. THE LOCAL AIRSPACE MANAGER 

Organisations should consult with the local Airspace Manager about formalising their 

airspace arrangements. This can take two forms: 1) A Letter of Agreement or, 2) Local 

Instructions for the DZ that are read in conjunction with the MATS. The former is the better 

option, as it requires both parties to agree to a change in the arrangements. Either way, the 

organisation may be looking for: 

• A TC to pass on details of unverified traffic likely to conflict with a parachute descent, 

• ATC to activate a standard VFR or IFR Flight Plan, as appropriate, at the start of each 

day's operations, 

• Agreement on climb and descent areas, 

• A dedicated transponder code, 

• Agreement on phraseology between pilot and ATC, and 

• How the airspace will be declared clear after a drop (ie parachutists down). 

9. ASSESSING AN APPLICATION 

When complete, the application together with evidence of "industry consultation" and 

"airspace arrangements" should to be sent to the APF Office to the attention of the Director 

Aircraft Operations and Director Safety. It is recommended that the checklist at Appendix B 

be studied, as it will form the basis of the APF review and form part of the Federation's 

recommendation to CASA for approval. 

If the application is found to be deficient the shortcomings will be identified and the 

organisation advised in writing. Only after all deficiencies have been rectified will the 

application be forwarded to CASA with the recommendation that it be approved. 

The detail of how the organisation's procedures demonstrate compliance with the Standard 

is most important. The following gives guidance on how the standard might be satisfied. 

Subject matter is grouped under the following headings: 

• Aircraft operations- VFR or IFR 

• Airspace considerations 

• DZ topographical considerations 

• Declaring the airspace clear 

• Safety of parachutists 

August 2002 
15 CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 

10. AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS - VFR OR IFR 

The APF will not support an application that seeks a concession against any existing rule in 

respect to VFR or IFR. Aircraft used to support parachuting must be suitably equipped for 

the type of operation proposed. If the applicant proposes to operate the aircraft in IMC then 

the aircraft and PIC must be rated for IFR. If the aircraft is only VFR equipped then the 

aircraft clearly CANNOT operate in IMC. 

Some aircraft door-off supplements specifically exclude operations under IFR when the door 

is off or open. If this is the case the reason must be determined and overcome. It might be 

that when the door is removed the airflow past the static air source is disturbed, in which 

case relocating the vent might be all that is necessary. 

Organisations are encouraged to obtain specialist advice on what is involved in operating to 

IFR and the limitations of VFR on-top-of-cloud. The following is for guidance only: 

IFR operations: Where IFR operations are proposed the procedures might include details 

about how the operation plans for, and manages, operations to IFR. The procedures could 

say, for example, that the PIC: 

• Will obtain a meteorological forecast for the area, 

• Prepare (or activate) an IFR flight plan which: 

• Takes account of the forecast conditions, 

• Provides for alternate/(s), 

• Specifies minimum fuel for operational requirements and altemate/(s), 

• Takes account of the LSAL T 

• at the DZ, and 

• on track when diverting to alternate/(s), and 

• Letdown procedures at the DZ, or elsewhere, after a drop. 

VFR operations: Where VFR only aircraft operations are proposed the procedures might 

include details about how the aircraft intends to confine its operations to VMC although 

parachutists may be dropped through airspace that constitutes IMC. The procedures might 

say that: 

• PIC is competent in the use of ADF and/or VOR and/or DME and/or GPS. (Note: A NGT 

VFR rated pilot is generally considered competent in the use of at least two of these 

aids), 

• The aircraft will not take off if, at some stage of the flight, it will have to operate in IMC, 

and 

• Where operations on-top-of-cloud are likely then the aircraft will carry sufficient fuel to 

divert to an alternate. 

A transponder will be required to aid in the aircraft's identification by ATC and TCAS 

equipped aircraft. 

11. AIRSPACE CONSIDERATIONS 

The organisation's procedures need to describe in detail, for all classes of airspace through 

which descents will be made, how risk of a conflict with other airspace users will be 

minimised. There may be several classes of airspace overlaying the DZ- all of which need 

to be declared free of traffic before a drop commences. CASA prescribes that for: 

August 2002 
CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 16 

Classes C and D: Parachutists are not permitted to exit the aircraft until the PIC has 

received a clearance from ATC authorising the descent. This applies to VFR and IFR 

operations. The MATS 18-3-5 describes how ATC manages parachuting operations in Class 

C and D. See also APF Op Reg 5.2.14. 

Class E: Pilots of jump aircraft operating VFR in Class E airspace are required to establish 

contact with ATC notifying the intent to commence operations before the drop commences. 

ATC will alert IFR traffic. Jump aircraft operating to IFR will be separated from other IFR 

traffic and provided information on known VFR traffic. 

Class G: The PIC must broadcast advising the intention to drop parachutists when operating 

entirely in Class G airspace on all relevant frequencies (ie the Area VHF, CTAF or MBZ frequency). 

See also APF Op Reg 5.2.15. 

Licensed Aerodromes: AlP ENR 5.5 requires that parachutists not be dropped onto a 

licensed aerodrome without the approval of the relevant District Office of CASA or the 

Aerodrome Operator and then only when certain precautions are taken. See also APF Op 

Reg 5.2.16. 

Transiting non-radio equipped aircraft: Where the DZ is close to an area where it could be 

expected that there will be through-traffic without radio, or aircraft with radio on a 

discrete frequency, the procedures should describe arrangements in place (or that will 

be put in place) to minimise any conflict. There are a number of ways other airspace 

users might be alerted. For example: 

• Parachuting symbol and if an area of intense activity a warning on the VTC and ERC 

LOW charts, as appropriate, and 

• Written agreement with the local Airspace Manager to advise of unverified traffic, and/or 

• The DZ be promulgated as a Danger or Restricted Area, CTAF or MBZ. 

Air Traffic Services: MATS 18-3-5 describes how ATC will separate the jump aircraft from 

other traffic. ATC generally adds a buffer around the 2NM radius circle centred on the DZ 

reference point so that another aircraft will not inadvertently penetrate airspace overhead the 

DZ when a descent is in progress. Extra separation does not apply where: 

• The organisation agrees to confine its parachuting operation to one side of a "line 

feature" in which case the line feature will become the edge of the DZ, and 

• PJE aircraft have agreed to self-separate from other PJE aircraft using the same or a 

closely located OZ. 

Note: ATC does not permit a line feature to be used when the parachute descent is from 

above 1 O,OOOFT or in IMC. 

Traffic on IFR routes: Where there is a published IFR track near the DZ the organisation is 

advised to specify how it will ensure the jump aircraft and the parachutists will not conflict 

with aircraft using the track. IFR tracks have navigational tolerances that splay with distance 

and vary with altitude and should be taken into account. For example, it could be said that 

the PIC (or ATC as the case may be) WILL NOT permit the exit to proceed if: 

• An aircraft is known to be on an I FR track, 

• At or below the planned drop height, and 

• It will pass, at the intended time of the drop within a specified distance of the OZ. 

August 2002 
COLLISION HAZARD FOR A MIX OF AIRCRAFT ENCOUNTERING 

PARACHUTISTS IN A DROP ZONE 

NOTES 

This model is ready to accept data. 

COMMON PARAMETERS KEY 

Factor Value Units Input 

Feet to Metres 0.3048 Constant Calculated Fields 

Knots to M/Sec 0.5148 Constant Results 

Drop Zone - Area ? Sq Metres 

PARACHUTISTS DROPPING 

Factor Value Units 

Span 2 Metres 

Lenoth 2 Metres 

Height 2 Metres 

Length of the Drop Day 8 Hours 

DropVelo~ 120 Knots 

Parachutists Dropping Per Year ? Integer 

RISK MITIGATION 

Factor GA Light Twin Commuter RPT Units 

DZ Active Alert Radio Communication Failure 0.1 0.01 0.001 0.0001 Probability 

DZ Alert Incorrect Aircrew Reaction 0.3 0.1 0.01 0.001 Probability 

Probability of A TC Separation 0 0.3 0.7 0.9 0 = NoATC 

Safety Improvement Factor 2.70 13.11 303.31 9,091 .74 

AIRCRAFT TRANSITING 

Factor GA Light Twin Commuter RPT Units 

SQ_an 12 15 20 50 Metres 

Length 8 10 15 40 Metres 

Height 4 5 6 10 Metres 

No of People in Aircraft 2 6 40 150 inteoer 

Aircraft in DZ Per Year ? 1 ? Fractions OK 

t::xpected LJves at Ktsl< 1-'er Year, _T_OTAL #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! 

BLIND DROP RESULTS 

Factor GA Light Twin Commuter RPT Units 

Probability of a Coincidence in Space #VALUE! #VALUE I #VALUE! #VALUE! Probability 

Probability of a Coincidence in Time 9.23E-09 1.08E-08 1.23E-08 1.85E-08 Probability 

Probability of a Collision: Single Aircraft & Parachutist #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! Probability 

Collisions Per Year: Compound of Aircraft and Drops #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! Probability 

RISK MITIGATED DROP RESULTS 

Factor GA Light Twin Commuter RPT Units 

Probability of a Coincidence in Space #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! Probability 

Probability of a Coincidence in Time 3.42E-09 8.22E-10 4.06E-11 2.03E-12 Probability 

Probability of a Collision: Single Aircraft & Parachutist #VALUE' #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! Probability 

Collisions Per Year: Compound of Aircraft and Drops #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE I Probability 
17 CMP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 

Application of risk analysis: Applicants have a common law duty of care to ensure that risk 

is" ... as low as reasonably practical (ALARP)". Therefore, through cloud descents not 

conducted entirely within controlled airspace require a formal assessment of risk. 

Where a risk is identified, the applicant, APF and CASA must reach agreement on the level 

of risk. This is generally expressed as a mathematical value for the number of fatal 

accidents possible due to a collision per X number of flying hours and/or parachute descents 

for the class of airspace. Class C and D airspace requires an airways clearance from A TC 

authorising the descent- so that the risk of a conflict in Class C or D should not be an issue. 

Class E has protective measures for IFR traffic but not for VFR traffic, except where ATC 

agrees to provide a traffic information service. It might be that the Airspace Manager gives 

such an undertaking or, that a drop will not proceed in cloudy conditions if ATC due to 

workload, cannot provide information on other traffic. 

A risk assessment for Class G airspace may be necessary as to the "probability" and the 

"severity" of a chance-collision between a freefalling parachutist and a passing aircraft needs 

to be quantified. Probability is related to the number of parachutists using the airspace and 

the number of aircraft transiting the same airspace. Severity is a measure of the likelihood of 

a relatively large aircraft, (say one carrying more than 6POB), being involved in a collision 

and, predicting the consequent loss of life. For example, it might be determined that the risk 

of a collision is 3 x 1 o-7 per year and is so slight as to be a "socially-acceptable" risk. 

In arriving at a mathematical probability the factors generally considered are causation, 

foreseeability, preventability and reasonableness. ICAO has set down ways in which the risk 

can be quantified and the applicant may need to obtain expert help to put a numerical value 

on the risk. 

12. DECLARING THE AIRSPACE CLEAR 

Parachutist may fall through several types of airspace -three is common and with Class E four is 

possible. All the airspace needs to be assessed as being free of conflicting traffic before any 

parachute descent is initiated. Different techniques may be necessary to declare each piece of 

airspace clear of conflicting traffic. The following are examples: 

• The Loadmaster scans the airspace beneath the jump aircraft before authorising exit to 

ensure that there are no aircraft above the cloud; and/or 

• ATC declares the piece of airspace free of conflicting traffic, and/or 

• Radio call/(s) on the appropriate frequency (or frequencies) fails to produce a response 

from other traffic, and/or 

• TCO scans the airspace above the DZ and declares it free of conflicting traffic. 

If any part of the airspace through which the parachutists may fall cannot be determined to be clear 

of conflicting traffic, a parachute descent should not be allowed to proceed. 

An example of when a parachute descent SHOULD NOT proceed is where the PJE aircraft is above 

two layers of cloud separated by at least 2000FT of clear air. In such a situation another aircraft, 

operating to VFR, may fly between the cloud layers and not be required to monitor the radio. Unless 

there is some other way to declare the airspace between the two layers of cloud free of conflicting 

traffic (eg ATC advice) the procedures must say that under such conditions a parachute jump WILL 

NOT be made from above the upper layer of cloud. 

13. DZ TOPOGRAPHICAL CONSIDERATIONS 

August2002 
CAAP 152-1 (0 ): Parachuting through cloud 

The procedures need to take account of significant topographical features within a 3NM 

radius of the DZ target. Topographical features >500FT above the DZ target elevation are 

considered a hazard to aircraft and parachutists. 

18 

The organisation is advised to modify the normal opening height of the parachutists, when 

descents through cloud are to be made, to take account of such topographical hazards. It is 

recommended that the opening height be raised by the elevation of the highest hazard within 

3NM of the DZ. 

The following example shows how the applicant might take account of the DZ topography 

and satisfy the APF and CASA in respect to the safety of parachutists: Say the topographical 

feature is 500FT above the DZ target elevation, and parachute opening is normally initiated 

at 2500FT then, for relative work, jumping through cloud requires an additional 1 OOOFT clear 

of cloud for break-off and tracking. In this example the cloud ceiling should be not lower than 

4000FT (ie 2500 + 1000 + 500) above the DZ target. For tandem the cloud ceiling needs to 

be not less than 6000FT (ie 4500 + 1000 + 500) above the DZ. 

IFR aircraft operations must take account of topographical features when determining 

LSAL T. This is mentioned under the heading for Aircraft Operations- VFR or I FR. 

14. SAFETY OF PARACHUTISTS 

Apart from the DZ topography considerations, the procedures must address: 1) the 

authorisation of, 2) briefing before and, 3) conduct of parachute descents through cloud. 

Note: It is planned that, after a period to consolidate and refine procedures to protect the 

safety of parachutists, these will be written into the APF Op Regs, removing the need for 

them to be stipulated in an organisation's own procedures. However, until this happens, the 

organisation's procedures should address parachutist safety. 

Authorisation: Except for tandem descents, parachutists with less than a Certificate B shall 

not be permitted to undertake a descent through cloud. It is recommended that the 

authorisation for an APF Member to jump through cloud be via a logbook endorsement by 

the Cl, or DZSO, as applicable. The endorsement should confirm that the person is 

competent, capable, current and safe to jump through cloud, and may include specific or 

general limitations. 

Briefing prior to jump: The organisation's procedures need to state that, prior to any 

descent that is likely to result in a parachutist passing through cloud, the person (or persons 

involved) will be briefed by the Loadmaster. The briefing should cover, as applicable: 

• That parachutists will not be permitted to exit the aircraft if it is likely that they will need to 

deploy their parachute in cloud, 

• Given the prevailing meteorological conditions, agreement be reached on: 

• The manoeuvres to be performed, 

• Break-off height and opening height, 

• Parachutes are not to be deployed in or flown through cloud, and 

• There will be no tracking or horizontal movement in cloud when all members of 

the group are not visual. 

• In the event parachutists find themselves under canopy in cloud -to maintain position 

and minimise the possibility of collision with other parachutists who may also be in cloud 

they are to be briefed, until clear of cloud to: 

• Orbit the parachute, 

August 2002 
19 CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 

• At reduced speed, 

• On half brakes. 

Jump aircraft descent: It would be prudent for the organisation's procedures to address the 

jump aircraft descent profile and show what will be done to ensure that the aircraft will not 

conflict with the descending parachutists. Some possibilities are: 

• Aircraft will descend away from the exit point until 1 OOOFT below the cloud ceiling 

• Aircraft will descend at a rate less than the minimum rate possible by the parachutists, 

• PIC will maintain a watch for descending parachutists, 

• Aircraft will not return to over DZ until TCO accounts for all canopies and communicates 

their position to the PIC. 

The Airspace Manager may require that the TCO or PIC notify ATC when all parachutists are 

down before clearing other traffic through the area. 

15. SAFETY SYSTEMS 

The systems in place for "normal operations" have evolved over time, are documented in the 

APF Op Regs, and are well known. The applicant should consider the "what if' scenario for 

systems put in place specifically to control of jumping through cloud . The application of "risk 

assessment principles" has been made under the heading of 'Airspace Considerations' for 

predicting the likelihood of a collision between a parachutist and aircraft. There are other 

factors to consider as well: 

Ground-to-air communications: It is recommended that the organisation have more than 

one way of communicating with the aircraft. If the Manifester has a VHF Base Station it is 

recommended the organisation's procedures identify this as a backup in the event of failure 

of the TCOs communication link with the PIC. For example, if the PIC loses contact with the 

TCO the PIC could: 

• Ask the Manifester to use the DZ Public Address system to summon the TCO to the Base 

Station transceiver. 

• If the PIC fails to respond to a radio call by the TCO on the frequency dedicated to 

parachuting then, 

• A call might be made on the Area Frequency, or if this fails then, 

• ATC might be contacted by telephone to pass on a message. 

• If communication cannot be restored it be agreed that the descent must not 

proceed. 

Air-to-ground communication: If the aircraft is in controlled airspace and loses radio 

contact with ATC, it might be agreed with the local Airspace Manager that, the PIC shall 

attempt to restore communications through the TCO (or the DZ Base Station) to A TC by 

telephone. It is recommended that procedures in respect to a total loss of two-way 

communication be agreed with the Airspace Manager. 

If the PIC fails to elicit a response from the TCO, on the applicable frequency, or via the 

Manifester on the same frequency, then the PIC should not allow a descent to proceed that 

would have the parachutists pass through cloud. The PIC may decide to descend below the 

cloud ceiling and continue the operation, or land. 

Diversions: It is an IFR requirement the jump aircraft have the capability to divert to its flightplanned alternate if the meteorological conditions are such that the aircraft cannot safely 

August 2002 
CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 20 

return to the OZ. Where VFR on top of cloud is contemplated it is recommended the aircraft 

always carry sufficient fuel to divert to an alternate. 

In-flight emergency: It is recommended the organisation implement procedures to deal with 

an in-flight emergency. Depending on the nature of the emergency, the pilot might, for 

example, elect to: 

• Divert to an alternate which can provide the necessary ground support, or 

• Declare an emergency and issue a drop authorisation to the Load master for the 

parachutists to exit immediately. 

Illegal operations by others: APF and CASA should not reject an application on the basis 

that another airspace user, not associated with parachuting, could operate illegally and 

therefore threaten the safety of the parachutist. Nevertheless, the organisation might wish to 

address how it sees its obligations and manage the risk with respect to aircraft, not engaged 

in parachuting, operating illegally. Under such circumstances the organisation might rely on: 

• The parachuting symbol on the VNC I VTC I ERC LOW warning about parachuting 

activity, and/or 

• ATC agreeing to report, where radar coverage allows, unverified traffic that might conflict 

with the descending parachutists, and/or 

• The PIC's broadcast of intentions on all applicable frequencies, and/or 

• The Load master looking for traffic above the cloud that could conflict, and/or 

• The TCO looking from below and advising the PIC of traffic that could conflict. 

August 2002 
21 CMP 152-1(0): Parachuting through cloud 

APPENDIX A 

Procedures Manual - Suggested Fonnat 

Organisation: The full name and address of the organisation needs to be stated. The 

person who takes overall responsibility is to be identified, by name, as well as how this 

person can be contacted by APF, A TC and CASA when parachuting operations are in 

progress. 

Location: A description of the drop zone location including the latitude and longitude of the 

DZ (or DZs). Specify significant topographical features within 3NM radius of the DZ target 

that determine the applicant's nominated LSAL T for the aircraft and parachutists. 

Airspace: The overlying airspace up to the maximum altitude from which parachute 

descents will be made needs to be described in detail. 

Duties & responsibilities: All those with a role to play shall need to have their duties and 

responsibilities explained. Of particular importance are those of the Responsible Person, the 

DZSO, TCO, PIC, Loadmaster and Manifester. 

Arrangements with the Airspace Manager: If these are described in a Letter of 

Agreement, it could be appended to the procedures. If arrangements are via "Local 

Instructions" to ATC personnel then the details need inclusion in the procedures manual. 

Authorisation to jump through cloud: The procedures need to explain on what basis a 

person is permitted to jump through cloud. Specifically: 1) the minimum qualifications and 

experience to be eligible, 2) the training of, and 3) means by which endorsement to jump will 

be made. 

Meteorological conditions: Explain how, prior to each day's operations, the likely 

conditions are determined. This might be a pilot responsibility but involve the DZSO and the 

Loadmaster(s) in respect of who might jump. 

Flight plan or notification: Describe how aircraft operations for the day are planned and 

ATC notified. The PIC might activate a standard Flight Plan or lodge one based on the 

forecast conditions. 

Detennination of exit point: The DZSO, in conjunction with the pilot, must calculate the exit 

point, for example, from the forecast winds. How is this determined in the first instance and 

how is it subsequently modified in light of changed conditions. 

Manifesting: The procedures should specify how the DZSO, using the Manifester, would 

ensure only those with the appropriate authorisation are permitted to manifest for a jump. 

Pre-flight briefing: There are two aspects: 1) before take-off the PIC and Loadmaster need 

to agree on the run-in direction and exit point. 2) The Loadmaster needs to ensure all those 

about to board the aircraft are conversant with the prevailing meteorological conditions and 

are clear about the procedures for a descent through cloud. The details of the briefing could 

be specified here. 

Aircraft operations: The procedures need to describe arrangements with ATC and others in 

respect to the aircraft used and the type of operation, ie VFR or IFR, frequencies to use, 

phraseology, climb and descent areas, etc. 

August2002 
CMP 152-1 (0 ): Parachuting through cloud 22 

Spotting: The process by which the PIC and Load master determine the correct exit point 

needs to be specified and what reliance will be made on navigation aids, visual observation, 

etc specified. 

Determination that the airspace is clear- authorising the exit: How will: 1) the airspace 

above the cloud be declared clear, 2) the airspace with cloud be declared clear, and 3) that 

below the cloud declared clear before the Loadmaster allows the exit to proceed. 

Descent phase: What protective measure will be used to ensure the PJE aircraft descent 

will not conflict with the parachutists or other airspace users. 

Landing & debriefing: Normal procedures would apply, however, if the cloud introduces 

other factors that were not predicted what can be learned and how will this be passed on. 

Reporting of incidents: If the organisation has reporting procedures additional to those 

normally required then these need to be specified. 

Safety systems: The systems that are in place in the event of a failure of ground-to-air 

communications, deteriorating weather, etc need to be documented. 

August 2002 

.iiJII' ,.. .... _ .. . 
23 CAAP 152-1(0): Parachuting through cloud 

APPENDIX B 

Checklist for APF and CASA to evaluate applications 

Organisation: Paragraph/Section number 

- Is full name & address provided? 

Are contact details specified and correct? 

- Is nominated Responsible Person acceptable to APF (and CASA)? 

Location: 

- Is Drop Zone already ASO approved? 

- Is Latitude & Longitude correctly stated? 

-Topographical features within 3NM: 

Is the highest feature taken into account for opening heights? 

Do aircraft procedures reflect appropriate LSAL T for aircraft ops? 

- Is DZ adequately identified on aeronautical charts? 

- Have other operators in the area been consulted regarding the proposal? 

Airspace: 

- Is overlying airspace correctly described? 

- Do procedures reflect stated ATC clearance and/or broadcasting requirements? 

- Has "Mind Matters" risk modelling been completed and are the results within 

ALARP range? 

Duties & Responsibilities: 

- Do procedures include an organisational chart? 

- Are all necessary key-personal with management responsibility identified? 

- Are their duties & responsibilities adequately stated? 

- Is the nominated Chief Pilot appropriately qualified for the type of operation 

envisaged? I 

August 2002 
CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 24 

Arrangements with Airspace Manager: 

- Has a Letter of Agreement from Airservices been included with application? 

- Are Local Instructions promulgated? 

Do they reflect what is proposed? 

Has ATC agreed to provide traffic information for all airspace above jumper 

opening height? 

Authorisation to jump through cloud: 

-Are jumper minimum qualifications in accord with APF requirements? 

- Is traininQ for throuQh-cloud descents adequate & adequately described? 

- Is there an appropriate means of granting authorisations? 

- Do procedures preclude no-approved persons from jumping? 

Meteorological conditions: 

- Does the organisation have an appropriate way of determining forecast met conditions? 

- Is there a system for on-going monitoring of conditions? 

- Do procedures provide for suspending operations when conditions fall below 

minima? 

Flight plan or notification: 

-Are flight-planning I flight-notification procedures appropriate? 

-Do these procedures include CASA requirements for flight under VFR or IFR as 

appropriate? 

Determination of exit point: 

-Is the proposed method of determining exit point appropriate and reliable? 

- Does the system provide for a timely review when conditions chanQe? 

Manifesting: 

- Do the manifesting procedures conform to APF OpReg requirements? 

-Does the Manifester position have a statement of Duties & Responsibil ities which: 

August 2002 
25 CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 

Ensures only those with the appropriate qualifications are manifested? 

An appropriately qualified person is appointed as loadmaster? 

Pre-flight briefing: 

- Is it clearly stated the Loadmaster must conduct a briefing_ with PIC and lumpers? 

- Procedures ensure Jumpers are made aware of limitations posed by "actual" 

conditions? 

- Does the system ensure only persons with appropriate qualifications board the 

aircraft? 

Aircraft operations: I 

-Are precise arrangements with ATC specified for climb, descent, etc? i 

- Do procedures take account of other traffic likely to be operating in the vicinity? I 

I 

August 2002 
CAAP 152-1 (0): Parachuting through cloud 26 

Spotting: 

- Is the system of spotting appropriate: 

If non-visual spotting is proposed does system have a way of verifying 

exit point? 

Is aircraft nav-equipment appropriate for what is proposed? 

Determination that airspace is clear 

- Procedures ensure that airspace above cloud is clear? 

- Adequate system of communication with ground to declare airspace below is 

clear? 

- System ensures aircraft in or between cloud layers will not conflict? 

Descent phase: 

- System ensures PJE aircraft descent is away from jumper opening point? 

- Do procedures include a means of accounting for all canopies? 

- Does descent take account of topographical features? 

Landing & debriefing: 

- Do procedures require de-briefing of participants and are these appropriate? 

Reporting of incidents: 

- Is there a documented system for reporting incidents? 

- Does APF require additional requirements and are these agreed with the 

applicant? 

Safety systems: 

- Does system have appropriate ground-to-air communications? 

- Is there a back-up communications system and is it adequate? 

- Are there appropriate mechanisms to call off jump if conditions deteriorate? ! 

August2002