Born on September 25, 1981, in Tamil Nadu, India, Wing Commander P. Makeshwar serves as a skydiver in the Indian Air Force and is a certified Tandem Master, qualified to conduct tandem skydives with passengers. In this role, he is responsible for managing every phase of the jump, from aircraft exit and freefall to parachute deployment and safe landing.

The record was established on December 11, 2025, in Cuttack, Odisha. During the attempt, Makeshwar and a passenger exited an aircraft at an altitude of 18,230 feet above ground level (AGL) and entered a continuous freefall. The pair remained in freefall for 73 seconds, making it the longest recorded duration in this category. The parachute was successfully deployed at an altitude of 5,380 feet AGL, allowing the jump to conclude safely.

Executing a tandem skydive with such an extended freefall requires advanced training, precise body control, and continuous monitoring of altitude and stability. Throughout the descent, the Tandem Master must maintain aerodynamic balance for both individuals while accurately timing parachute deployment to ensure maximum safety. The achievement reflects years of professional experience and rigorous military training.

The Asia Book of Records officially confirmed the record on March 25, 2026. Recognized under the title “Longest Duration of a Freefall Tandem Skydive Performed by an Officer of the Armed Forces,” the accomplishment celebrates a freefall lasting 73 seconds from an exit altitude of 18,230 feet AGL, with parachute deployment at 5,380 feet AGL.

Beyond setting a new benchmark, the record showcases the high standards of training and operational capability maintained by the Indian Air Force's skydiving professionals. It also serves as an inspiring example of discipline, technical mastery, and courage in one of the world's most demanding aerial activities.