NickDG 23 #1 September 29, 2003 While I found people in New Zealand very receptive to BASE jumping some years ago, it seems like this Kiwi parachute club is in hot water . . . >The Royal New Zealand Air Force has grounded members of its parachute club after an airman was involved in an illegal base-jump off the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Police are investigating the risky early morning base-jump – a skydive from platforms such as mountains and buildings rather than aircraft – that happened about two weeks ago. The link to the air force was discovered when the jumpers were seen travelling in a van belonging to the parachute section of the air force's Whenuapai base aviation sports club. Squadron Leader Terry Hay said the air force was informed of the airman's involvement about a week ago and on Friday the decision was made to suspend the parachute club while an investigation was carried out. "It is just a precaution to make sure nothing untoward is going on." Squadron Leader Hay believed that only one air force employee was involved. His role in the jump of about 40m was still being investigated. The airman's future in the air force would be decided when the police investigation was completed. The club, which has civilian as well as air force members, has strict safety rules in line with Civil Aviation regulations and Parachute Federation guidelines, that are monitored by the air force. "There is no way that any activities such as base jumping is sanctioned or part of the club activity," he said. The extreme sport of base jumping has been banned in many countries and in some American states, jumpers can incur a large fine and up to 90 days in jail. Police have not yet decided if charges will be laid against those involved in the latest Harbour Bridge jump, but the offenders could face charges of disorderly behaviour, endangering themselves or the safety of others, trespass, or charges under the Civil Aviation Act. Parachute Federation president Tim Fastnedge said base jumping is not something the organisation condoned.< "BASE Jumping is Not a Crime . . ." Nick BASE 194 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
