USPA Skydiving B License Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Parachute deployment at the appropriate altitude is essential for a safe skydive. Deploying the parachute when passing through 1,500 feet AGL (Above Ground Level) is crucial because this altitude provides sufficient time for the parachute to deploy fully and for the skydiver to address any potential malfunctions before reaching the ground.

At this height, a skydiver has enough altitude to troubleshoot a problem if the parachute does not open as expected. While the awareness of a clear landing area is essential for making decisions during the jump, the critical focus on altitude ensures safety and proper parachute functioning during the descent.

Additionally, personal comfort level is not a reliable measure for deployment since parachute operations are based on established safety protocols that prioritize altitude over individual feelings of readiness. Similarly, deploying as soon as exiting the aircraft disregards the necessary freefall time required for the skydiver to stabilize before activating the chute, which can lead to complications. Therefore, deploying the parachute upon passing through 1,500 feet AGL aligns with both safety practices and the physiological needs experienced during a jump.