Understanding FAA Requirements for Off-Airport and Demonstration Jumps
When planning a parachute jump, it's crucial to determine if you need a Certificate of Authorization (COA) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) by filing FAA Form 7711-2. This requirement hinges on whether the FAA determines if jump will occur at an aviation event, over a congested area, or above an open-air assembly of people.
Unfortunately, the FAA has declined to officially define "congested area" or "open-air assembly of persons," making the answer less clear-cut. Only the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) has the authority to decide if a location falls into either category. The FAA considers any parachute operation that is outside a regular drop zone’s routine for an invited gathering of people an aviation event, regardless of payment, event purpose, or assembly size. All aviation events necessitate an FAA Certificate of Authorization, unless the FAA deems it unnecessary.
Before any jump, you must get permission from the property owner (including public property). If your jump is outside a regular drop zone's routine, your local FSDO will determine if you need a COA. Even for jumps near only a few bystanders or in seemingly empty areas, consulting the FSDO is advised. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to penalties like suspension or revocation of FAA certificates and fines.
Following the FAA's review of your FAA Form 7711-2, should they conclude that a Certificate of Authorization is not required, official notification will be provided. For clarity and documentation purposes, it is advised to request this notification in written form, as this serves as authorization to conduct the parachute operation as proposed.
The FAA's role is not to deny parachute jumps that comply with regulations, but rather to ensure planned operations adhere to the regulations. A jump would only be denied if it cannot be conducted legally.
FAR Section 105.15(a)(1)-(7) outlines the general information required for all parachute operations. However, aviation events have additional requirements that jumpers often miss on Form 7711-2, including:
- Emergency Response Plan: A written plan detailing how to protect people and property during emergencies that is appropriate for the size and complexity of the event.
- Security Plan (Crowd Control): A written plan for securing the parachute landing area and spectator zones, especially during the time jumpers are descending.
- Landowner Permission: A letter of permission from the property owner for off-airport jumps requiring a Certificate of Authorization (FAR 105.21). For jumps at airports, prior written approval from airport management is mandatory.
- Airport Vicinity: FAR 119.1(e)(6) limits intentional parachute operations to within a 25-statute-mile radius of the takeoff airport.
- Timeline for Approval: Submit FAA Form 7711-2 applications for Certificates of Authorization at least 10 business days before the event. FSDO guidance states an application for a parachute jump should be processed within five business days of receipt and issue approvals at least five business days before the panned operation.
To find your local FSDO, visit the official FAA website. Once there, utilize their directory or interactive map to search for your FSDO by state or city, understanding that service areas are usually county-based. Each FSDO's page will provide details, including contact information, physical address, a service area map, and office hours. When contacting your FSDO, it's advisable to call first, have your inquiries clearly defined, and be prepared for potential wait times. Following these steps ensures effective communication and access to FAA resources.
FAA Form 7711-2 and the skydiving demonstration jump attachment form are available at faa.gov and uspa.org. Submissions to the FSDO can be made following instructions on uspa.org. For assistance, contact the USPA Government Relations Department at govrelations@uspa.org.