What is a PLF? or Parachute Landing Fall

A PLF is a technique used by skydivers to safely absorb the impact of landing and reduce the risk of injury, especially during less-than-ideal landings.

Here's how it works: A PLF spreads the force of impact across multiple points of the body by rolling through the landing rather than taking it all in one spot (like your feet or knees). It’s designed to protect your ankles, knees, hips, and spine.

Key steps in a PLF: Feet and knees together – Tight and slightly bent. Slight body lean – Lean slightly into the direction of the fall. Hit with the side of the body – Land on the balls of your feet, then roll along the outside of your lower leg, thigh, hip, and shoulder. Keep hands in – Arms should be in to protect your elbows and wrists. Think of it as a controlled tumble that lets you “roll out” of the impact instead of slamming into the ground.

Who uses PLFs? AFF students and military jumpers learn it from day one. Licensed skydivers may not use it often on soft landings, but it’s a vital skill for unpredictable or emergency landings (strong winds, tight areas, uneven terrain).

It’s not fancy — but it’s effective, and it keeps skydivers safe when it matters most.