– When skydivers approach the ground, what exactly are they doing (and what is happening with the parachute) when they pull the parachute “strings” down to their thighs just before touching down?

Question

– When skydivers approach the ground, what exactly are they doing (and what is happening with the parachute) when they pull the parachute “strings” down to their thighs just before touching down?

In: 3

Answer 1

It is called flaring. The parachute is essentially a wing. Pulling down on the control cords causes the parachute to pitch up which converts the forward momentum into lift until the slow down causes it to stall and gently sets you down.

Planes due this as well when landing.