What should a jumper look for below before exiting the aircraft?

Before exiting the aircraft, it is crucial for a jumper to assess clouds and other aircraft below. This is important for several reasons. Firstly, clouds can indicate weather conditions that may affect the jump, such as turbulence or obscured visibility. Being aware of cloud presence helps ensure that jumpers avoid entering a cloud layer, which can lead to disorientation or hazardous situations.

Additionally, scanning for other aircraft is essential for safety. The airspace around drop zones may have other planes in the vicinity, and awareness of these can prevent mid-air collisions. A jumper must ensure that the airspace is clear, allowing for a safe exit and descent without the risk of encountering other aircraft.

While factors like weather patterns, jump altitude, and landing conditions are important as well, the immediate and direct observation of clouds and other aircraft is a priority right before jumping, as it directly affects the safety of the jump.