Water landings present unique challenges for skydivers, particularly when managing parachute equipment, suspension lines, and canopy entanglement. This course provides practical survival training in a controlled aquatic environment, preparing participants to respond effectively to an unintentional water landing.

Successful completion satisfies the USPA B-license water-training requirement.

The course combines classroom instruction, emergency-procedure review, and supervised aquatic exercises designed to develop confidence and proficiency in water-landing survival.

Water Landing Preparation

- Recognizing and avoiding potential water-landing hazards.

- Understanding altitude and depth-perception challenges over water.

- Preparing for water entry and evaluating environmental conditions.

- Reviewing flotation equipment and emergency procedures.

Equipment Management and Emergency Procedures

- Managing parachute equipment following water entry.

- Recognizing suspension-line and canopy entanglement hazards.

- Practicing controlled harness removal and equipment separation.

- Establishing priorities for personal safety and recovery.

Practical Water Survival Training

- Simulated water entry while wearing a parachute harness-and-container system.

- Canopy-over-water drills simulating an unexpected canopy collapse onto the jumper.

- Controlled escape from the parachute system and canopy.

- Safe movement to the designated recovery area.

Pre-Course Requirements

Participants should:

- Be comfortable participating in supervised aquatic activities.

- Be prepared to discuss their swimming ability and any relevant limitations with the instructor.

- Bring appropriate swimwear and a change of clothing.

- Review the water-landing procedures in the USPA Skydiver's Information Manual.

- Training equipment and additional clothing requirements will be coordinated before the course.

During the Course

Participants will:

- Complete the classroom briefing and emergency-procedure review.

- Practice water-landing procedures and equipment management.

- Enter the water wearing a training parachute system.

- Demonstrate the ability to escape the harness and parachute canopy safely.

- Complete the required practical exercises under supervision.

Successful completion will be documented in the participant's skydiving logbook in accordance with USPA requirements.

Reference: USPA Skydiver's Information Manual (2026), Sections 4-1.G and 5-4.