parachuting

Parachuting is the descent to the surface using a fabric canopy that slows a fall. It is practiced as a sport, used for military or civilian egress, and employed in emergencies. Jumps typically begin from aircraft or elevated platforms, and modern gear emphasizes control, reliability, and safety.

Parachuting began in the 18th century. Louis-Sébastien Lenormand gave the first public parachute demonstration in 1783. In 1797, André-Jacques Garnerin completed the first successful balloon-drop parachute. Over the 19th and 20th centuries, canopies evolved from rigid frames to efficient ram-air designs enabling accuracy and maneuverability.

Standard equipment includes a harness, a main canopy, a reserve parachute, and a container with lines and toggles. Static-line deployment uses a cord attached to the aircraft to open the main canopy automatically; freefall deployment requires the jumper to deploy at a chosen altitude. Reserve parachutes provide redundancy. Altimeters and automatic activation devices improve safety.

Sport parachuting encompasses disciplines such as formation skydiving, canopy piloting, wingsuit jumping, and accuracy. Tandem skydives introduce beginners by attaching them to an instructor. Military parachuting supports air drops and personnel insertion, while rescue and disaster-relief operations may employ parachutes to deliver supplies or evacuees.

Parachuting carries risk of injury or fatality, though training, equipment standards, and safety procedures mitigate hazards. Licenses or certifications are required in many countries, with regular equipment checks, proper packing, and medical clearance recommended.