So you’ve made the brave decision to go skydiving and now are looking for a center nearby. Did you know that not all skydiving centers are made equal, even in regards to safety? If not, continue on as this guide will empower you to make the best and safest decision possible when choosing a location to skydive.
What is tandem skydiving?
Tandem skydiving is a type of skydiving that allows individuals to experience the thrill of freefall and soaring through the sky without needing any prior skydiving experience. In a tandem jump, an individual is securely harnessed to a highly trained and certified skydiving instructor, who takes care of all the technical aspects and ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. As the aircraft climbs to the desired altitude (typically 10,000-15,000 feet), the tandem pair jumps together, and the adrenaline-pumping freefall begins.
After a designated time, the parachute is deployed, slowing down the descent and providing a gentle glide to the ground, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Tandem skydiving offers an accessible way for thrill-seekers to embrace the ultimate adventure while under the guidance of an expert, making it a popular choice for those seeking an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
Where should you go for a tandem skydive?
It’s important to research and choose a reputable skydiving center that prioritizes safety and has positive reviews from previous jumpers. You should always check the specific requirements or restrictions that the skydiving center might have.
Not all drop zones are made equal
Before I went on my first tandem skydive, I had no idea about certified drop zones and pirate drop zones, which are non-certified. You would think with an extreme sport like skydiving they would require all businesses to uphold the same safety standards, but that is not true. Some drop zones are safer than others. I only learned this once I started training to become a skydiver.
Why should you go to a USPA certified drop zone?
The United States Parachute Association is a non-profit membership association that promotes safe skydiving. Skydiving schools, clubs, and centers can affiliate themselves with the USPA by pledging to uphold the USPA’s basic safety requirements, use current USPA-rated instructors, to offer USPA-required equipment, and USPA-developed instructional methods. If you go to a USPA-certified drop zone, you know you are going to a drop zone that puts safety first.
Who to talk to if you’re feeling scared
If you have a fear of the unknown, one of the best actions you can take is to educate yourself so that you are more comfortable with the risks and uncertainties. Talking to certain people knowledgeable in this field can help ease that uncertainty. I’m not saying it’s a requirement to talk to all of these people, but it’s nice to know the job titles so you can better communicate your needs when you’re scheduling. Typically, you will get your training from the tandem skydiving instructor.
Tandem Skydiving Instructor: Tandem instructors guide customers during tandem skydives, ensuring their safety and providing an unforgettable experience.
Pilot: Skydiving operations typically employ pilots to safely fly the aircraft used for transporting jumpers to the desired altitude.
Drop Zone Manager: The drop zone manager oversees the day-to-day operations of the skydiving center, including scheduling, customer service, safety protocols, and staff coordination.
Packing Technician: Packing technicians are responsible for properly folding and packing parachutes after each jump to ensure they deploy safely for subsequent jumps.
Rigger: Parachute riggers inspect, repair, and maintain parachutes and associated equipment to ensure they meet safety standards.
Manifest Staff: Manifest staff handle customer check-ins, scheduling, and coordination of jump groups to ensure a smooth and organized jump day.
Safety and Training Advisor: Safety officers are responsible for maintaining and enforcing safety protocols, conducting regular equipment checks, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
When should you go tandem skydiving?
Generally speaking, if the weather is nice and it’s not too hot or cold, then it’s a great time to skydive! Any reputable skydiving center will check for wind conditions to make sure it’s safe for skydiving. You want to look for clear skies, calm winds, and moderate temperatures.
How to schedule your first tandem skydive
Visit the USPA Website and locate a drop zone near you. There are international USPA-affiliated drop zones so it’s not limited to just the United States!
Select a few drop zones near you and find reputable and well-reviewed drop zones that prioritize safety and customer experience. Skydive Fayetteville is my home drop zone, they are USPA affiliated, and I’ve jumped with them for over a year. I will be using them as an example throughout this post.
Check the drop zone’s website and get familiar with the staff and procedures. For example, my home drop zone shares information about the staff’s ratings, licenses, and years of experience to give you more comfort that you’re in good hands.
Contact the drop zone with any further questions or concerns.
Pick a date. Consider the weather. Be flexible if the drop zone needs to change the reservation due to wind conditions. It’s for your safety.
For more resources and information, please refer to the United States Parachute Association website. They have a ton of information for skydivers of all skill levels.
What to do on the big day
Arrive early. This will allow time for paperwork, safety briefings, and getting comfortable with your tandem instructor.
Attend the safety briefing. Your tandem instructor will cover important information about the jump, body positioning, safety procedures, and what to expect during the experience.
Gear Up: Your instructor will help you put on the necessary skydiving gear, including the jumpsuit, harness, and goggles. They will ensure everything is properly fitted and secure.
Board the Aircraft: Follow your instructor’s guidance as you board the aircraft. Enjoy the scenic flight to altitude, and take in the views.
Freefall and Canopy Ride: Experience the exhilarating freefall and the calm parachute ride with your instructor. Feel free to communicate and enjoy the moment. Perhaps you can even steer the toggles and pilot the canopy like I did!
Landing: Your instructor will guide the parachute for a gentle landing. Follow their instructions to lift your legs as you touch down.
Celebrate: Celebrate your accomplishment! Many drop zones offer photos and videos of your jump, so you can relive the experience.
The emotional rollercoaster of skydiving
In July 2021, I went on my first tandem skydive at GoJump Las Vegas. We went to 15,000 feet and fell for a minute. As you can see, I went through a wave of emotions during this time. First, I was excited. At the beginning of the plane ride, I was starting to feel nervous. Ten to 15 minutes into the airplane ride, fear started settling in. Once I got out of the plane, it was absolute pure joy. Definitely prepare for an emotional rollercoaster of a ride. It’s so worth it!
The fun doesn’t stop there!
After you experience the excitement of tandem skydiving, you may be looking for your next thrill. That’s where getting your skydiving license comes into play!
