10 Way tandem jump - safety tips

Skydiving in a group of 10 people is an exhilarating experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges—especially when following a tandem jumper. Here are the three fundamental things you need to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and safe jump when sharing the sky with nine other people.

1. Awareness of Airspace

With 10 people in the air, situational awareness is crucial. Always know:

• Where the Tandem Is: Tandem jumpers fall at a different speed compared to solo jumpers. Make sure to align with their same terminal speed, if you are heavy/light adjust your speed using larger/smaller suits.

• Where Everyone Else Is: Check your surroundings constantly. Use quick glances to spot other jumpers, ensuring you maintain safe separation throughout the skydive.

2. Controlled Movements

When there are many jumpers in close proximity, your movements must be precise and intentional.

• Exits: Ensure your exit is clean and does not interfere with others. Staggered exits can help avoid crowding right after leaving the plane.

• In Freefall: Avoid sudden or unpredictable movements that could disrupt the group or lead to collisions. Stick to your designated role or position in the jump.

3. Planning the Canopy Phase

Once the freefall ends, the canopy phase presents its own challenges in a 10-way jump.

• Deployment Altitudes: Make sure your deployment altitude aligns with the group’s plan. Avoid deploying too close to others to reduce the risk of canopy collisions.

• Landing Priorities: Give right of way to the tandem pair—they have less maneuverability and need more space to land safely. Always follow the agreed-upon landing pattern to avoid chaos in the landing zone.

Jumping with a group of 10 is as much about teamwork as it is about personal skills. By staying aware of your surroundings, moving with control, and planning your canopy phase, you’ll help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Want to see how it all comes together? Watch my YouTube video for a firsthand look at managing a 10-way tandem jump over Skydive Fano!