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Parachute DisplaysEach display must have certain personnel present; the display leader and team members, dropzone controller, aircraft pilots, commentator and the dropzone team. The dropzone team arrive before the jump to set up the landing area at the event and establish radio contact with the aircraft. Pre-JumpThe aircraft will appear and circle the dropzone at a height of 2,000 ft. A Wind Drift Indicator (WDI) is thrown from the open door of the aircraft by the team leader. This allows the team to assess the wind speed and direction, two crucial factors to understand for a safe landing in the arena. After the WDI has been observed the team will perform last minute checks on their gear and go over the display plan one more time before exit. The aircraft will climb to the maximum height allowed for the jump and line itself up for a flypast right over the dropzone. The maximum exit altitude is dictated by many factors such as weather (clouds restrict visibility) and Air Traffic Control. We call this stage 'running in'. When the aircraft has reached the correct place over the ground taking into account the wind, the first jumper will exit followed by each of the others. After ExitThe team usually jump from approximately 7,000 ft above the ground, which allows 30 seconds of freefall before the parachutes are opened. An exit from 10,000 ft (just under two miles) gives them approximately 45 seconds of freefall time at a speed of 125 mph, plus a descent under canopy of around 2 minutes from a height of 3,000 ft, the normal parachute opening height. The Raiders carry the White Ensign, the flag of the Royal Navy, and some team members jump with smoke to add visual appeal to the display. The Raiders then fly a loose stack formation to the arena where they land. The team then performs a line up to present themselves for the crowd and proceed to pack their parachutes in the company of the crowd. The Raiders enjoy meeting the crowd and answering any questions about the display while packing the parachutes.
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