What does the term "freefall" refer to in skydiving?

The term "freefall" specifically refers to the phase during which a skydiver is falling through the air without any deployable parachute. This period begins as soon as the skydiver exits the aircraft and lasts until the parachute is deployed. In freefall, the skydiver experiences the forces of gravity pulling them down and air resistance pushing against their body, which can create a sensation of weightlessness for the diver. This is the most exhilarating and dynamic part of the jump, where the skydiver can experience speeds reaching up to 120 mph, depending on their body position.

This specific definition differentiates freefall from other aspects of skydiving. Waiting in the airplane refers to pre-jump procedures, while the landing phase occurs after parachute deployment, and packing the parachute pertains to preparing for the next jump, none of which involve the unique experience of freefall itself. Understanding this distinction is crucial for both safety and enjoyment during skydiving.