Opinions please, preferred pattern joining methods

Plus the Skydivers usually open between 1500 and 2000 ft AGL. I would
much rather try avoiding a Parachute rather than a free falling
skydiver.

Ok maybe not an issue at every airport, but certainly an issue at some
of the airports I fly at.

In article . com,
"Brian" wrote:

Plus the Skydivers usually open between 1500 and 2000 ft AGL.

Um, no, not most skydivers I used to jump with anyway; that's pretty
low! 2000'-3000' and higher (tandem jumpers would open around 4,500'
IIRC) is more reasonable, I'd guess. Have a look down from 2000'
sometime. How'd you like to be hurtling towards the ground ar 100 MPH
from THAT altitude? You'd be OK if your main works as planned but it
doesn't leave you much room for handling any emergencies.

I would much rather try avoiding a Parachute rather than a free falling
skydiver.

At the vertical speeds involved I'd be amazed if you could spot a
skydiver nearby in freefall (far in front of you is different but harder
for different reasons), let alone plan and execute a course to avoid
them!

Ok maybe not an issue at every airport, but certainly an issue at some
of the airports I fly at.

Better to look at the sectional for those tricky to spot teeny-tiny
parachute logos and keep ear on the CTAF when coming in or coming
through the area to hear the "Jumpers away" call and/or avoid the
drop-zone altogether if you're familiar, or just give the airport a wide
berth if you're not specifically familiar with local operations.

Take care,
-Patrick Dirks.

1. 2-3k probably is more the norm for parachute opening, It has been a
while since I have dropped any on a regular basis. However I do recall
that for certification the are required to do a drop from low altitude,
It seems to me it somewhere between 3,000 and 3,500 ft agl to be
dropped from.

Anyway the point being the lower I am the more time and easer the
parachute will be to see.

2. I agree you would never be able to see or avoid a free falling
skydiver.

3. Funny my Sectional doesn't show a Parachute symbol, yet the are
skydiving almost Dawn to Dusk 7 days a week. On the other hand they are
very good about making Radio calls for dropping parachutes, and If you
are aware that they are there they are easy to avoid.

Brian