How do paratroopers avoid colliding with other paratroopers’ parachutes while descending?

Question

How do paratroopers avoid colliding with other paratroopers’ parachutes while descending?

In: Physics

Answer 1

They don’t. They jump out of the aircraft in sequence and the speed of the aircraft plus their timing will typically result in sufficient separation that collision isn’t an issue. Remember the aircraft is likely moving at about 100 mph and the previous jumper will have fallen below the next so even if they drift it isn’t likely to make them fall faster or slower to collide.

The average paratrooper does not use a parachute that allows them to steer. More advanced jumpers like special forces might use steerable parachutes so they could avoid collision if necessary.