When a packet is dropped from a helicopter moving upward, it initially retains the helicopter's upward velocity, causing it to move upward for a brief moment. This phenomenon occurs because the packet is momentarily stationary relative to the helicopter before gravity and air resistance begin to act on it. Newton's first law explains that an object in motion will remain in motion unless acted upon by an external force, which in this case are gravity and air resistance. The helicopter continues to ascend due to the upward force generated by its blades, while the packet's initial upward motion is a result of its retained velocity. Ultimately, the packet will slow down and begin to fall as these forces take effect.