MAN-0012 Rev. I
P a g e
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WING LOADING, CANOPY SIZE, AND SKILL LEVEL
We no longer publish one single value for “maximum exit weight”, but rather a table including
maximum exit weight limits in pounds and kilograms according to canopy pilot skill level. An
example of this table follows:
MODEL
MINIMUM
STUDENT
NOVICE
INTERMEDIATE
ADVANCED
EXPERT
MAXIMUM
PD 143R
VLC
N/R
122 lb
(55 kg)
143 lb
(65 kg)
165 lb
(75 kg)
200 lb
(91 kg)
254 lb
(115 kg)
VLC = Varies with landing conditions. N/R = Not recommended
How are the different categories defined? Although a skill level category system with rigid
definitions for each level is not possible, we can say that the range starts from the STUDENT level
(first skydive) and goes beyond EXPERT (some of the best pilots in the world), of which there are
only a handful. Numbers of jumps is one factor, but not necessarily the dominant one. The type
of equipment being used on those jumps is an important factor, as is how frequently these jumps
are being made. An important rule to consider is to limit any change to a smaller canopy size to
no more than a 15% size reduction from what you are used to. In the final evaluation, it is the
type and quality of canopy experience that really determines a person’s preparedness for a given
canopy.
One way to use this chart is to find where you are on the chart, and ask yourself if you should be
in that category. For example, if you have a PD143-R and have an exit weight of 195 lbs, we feel
you should be an expert. If you consider yourself a novice, then this canopy is probably not
suitable for you. You should check this with your main canopy as well. It is important to note that
the weights listed under each category are only a maximum for each category, and not a
requirement. Many expert skydivers prefer to jump at lower wing loadings than the level
shown on the chart, for a variety of reasons.
HIGH TEMPERATURE AND FIELD ELEVATIONS
The location of the dropzone facilities should always be taken into consideration. Landing
performance degrades with increasing temperature and altitude. To compensate for this, a larger
size reserve/lighter wing loading than what you would jump at sea level in standard temperature
conditions should be considered to give yourself a little more margin.
