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Rules established by the Federal Aviation Administration address skydiving aircraft and crewmembers, and the FAA oversees parachute manufacturing standards, parachute technicians (FAA riggers), and the packing of reserve parachutes. Otherwise, skydiving regulates itself. Through USPA, skydivers voluntarily establish and follow the Basic Safety Requirements, which address skydiving practices, training and ratings. On rare occasions, USPA Regional Directors may investigate when USPA individual members or Group Member drop zones deviate from the BSRs. USPA may insist on corrective action or may suspend or revoke the membership or credentials of the offender. FAA Skydiving Rules The FAA regulates skydiving activity under Part 105 "Parachute Operations" of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 105 (14 CFR 105). Flight operations for skydiving are conducted under Part 91 "General Operating and Flight Rules" (14 CFR 91). FAA Advisory Circulars provide additional guidance about aspects of skydiving operations.
FAA interpretations Over the years, the FAA has issued various bulletins and memos that clarify certain areas of the regulations that were not clear. “Parachutists Regulatory Status” “Formation Flight” FAA air traffic control Depending on the type of airspace where skydiving is to occur, Part 105 requires that the jump operation either provide prior notification to the requisite air traffic control facility or receive authorization from the air traffic control facility. For ongoing operations in busy airspace, the FAA suggests the establishment of a Letter of Agreement.
JO 7110.65S Air Traffic Control, Chapter 9, Section 7 - Parachute Operations This 1995 bulletin from FAA Headquarters provides guidance to air traffic controllers that "Controllers are not authorized to impose restrictions (for example, to deny or approve a jump) on parachute operations in Class E airspace…" It emphasizes the "special need…for both pilots and controllers to plan ahead, communicate clearly, and utilize extra vigilance in areas where jump zones are close to airways or approach corridors." FAA and airports Part 105 requires permission from airport management prior to jumping onto that airport. Public airports that have received federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds consent to operate the airport in conformance with standard grant assurance agreements. In so doing, the airport operator consents to operating the airport in a fair and reasonable manner, and not discriminating among types, kinds, and classes of aeronautical activity. The FAA affirms that skydiving is a legitimate aeronautical activity. FAA's Airports Compliance Handbook (Order 5190.6) details an airport's obligations with respect to skydiving and other activities. Chapter 5, The Airport Compliance Program is within PDF Part 2. |
