skydiver

A skydiver is a person who participates in skydiving, an activity that involves exiting an aircraft and descending to the ground using a parachute. Skydivers may pursue the activity recreationally, competitively, or as part of military training, and they may specialize in various disciplines and equipment configurations.

The core equipment of a skydiver typically includes a parachute system with a main canopy and a reserve canopy, harness and container, and an automatic activation device (AAD) in many setups. Visual or digital altimeters, a helmet, and a jumpsuit are common. More specialized gear can include wingsuits for horizontal gliding and cameras for recording jumps.

Training and licensing are essential for solo skydiving. Beginners often start with tandem jumps to experience freefall, followed by a structured progression through solo training with a recognized organization. Licensing levels and requirements vary by country, with common categories such as A, B, C, and D used in some systems. Training covers exit and landing techniques, canopy control, emergency procedures, and weather assessment.

Disciplines within the sport include formation skydiving, freeflying, canopy piloting, speed skydiving, and wingsuit flying. Tandem skydiving remains a popular entry option for newcomers to experience the sport under the supervision of an instructor.

Safety and governance are maintained through standardized training, equipment checks, and adherence to safety protocols. National parachuting associations and international bodies, such as the International Parachuting Commission under the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, oversee rules, competitions, and certification programs to promote safe participation in the sport.