Mastering Your Skydiving Skills: What to Do When Your Canopy Turns

When you're up there, experiencing the thrill of freefall and the beauty of the world from above, the last thing you want to encounter is a misbehaving canopy. So, what should you do if you notice your canopy is in a turn after deployment? It's a moment that demands clarity and decisiveness, so let’s break it down.

You might be surprised to learn that the right action is to release the brake on the turning side, if equipped. This quick move can help you regain control. Think about it; a canopy that turns typically means it’s facing uneven brake inputs or a possible harness twist. When you let go of the brake on the side that’s turning, you allow air to flow more evenly across the entire surface of the canopy. This can potentially correct the turn and stabilize your flight path, which sounds way better than an uncontrollable descent!

Now, some might wonder—what about pulling down harder on the side that’s turning? Well, here’s the thing: that’ll likely just make everything worse. Instead of relieving the pressure, you’re cranking up the tension, which can lead to an even sharper turn or, worse, a malfunction. And we definitely don’t want that, do we?

Here’s another common thought: “Should I just deploy the reserve parachute?” Immediate deployment isn’t necessary unless the situation is really dire. If your actions can remedy the problem with the main parachute—why scramble for the reserve? It’s always best to try correcting the situation first.

Ignoring the turn is a mistake you want to avoid. This could lead to losing control over your altitude or landing in a precarious way. Dangerous outcomes can arise from overlooking smaller problems during your descent—so please, don't fall into that trap.

Let’s not forget that real skydivers don’t fly solo; you’ve got instructors and fellow jumpers who can guide you through these scenarios. Lean on each other in training sessions or during practice jumps. Share what you learn, and absorb knowledge from your experiences. It's all about building that confidence and understanding, not just for yourself but for your entire community.

In summary, if your canopy isn’t behaving, don’t panic! Just remember to release the brake on the side that’s turning. Doing so can stabilize your flight path, and it’s an essential skill for any skydiver who aims to pass the USPA Skydiving B License. Good luck, and may all your landings be smooth!