Regarding C-130s not in trail, what is the rule for width adjustment?

In scenarios where C-130 aircraft are not in trail, the rule for width adjustment is to add 100 yards to the width. This adjustment accounts for the potential increased dispersion of the aircraft during the jump operation. When aircraft are aligned correctly in a trail formation, the jumpers can effectively exit and maximize their landing accuracy. However, when they are not in trail, the risk of jumpers spreading out laterally increases, necessitating a wider drop zone to enhance safety and accuracy.

Adding 100 yards to the width one time ensures that jumpers have sufficient space within the designated drop zone, reducing the risk of clustering or collisions upon landing. This rule is established to maintain a safe operational environment while allowing for the variables introduced when C-130s operate in formations that do not perfectly align.

Understanding this adjustment is crucial for any jumpmaster, as it directly impacts the safety and effectiveness of the drop zones utilized during airborne operations.