Skydiving is an exhilarating experience that is accessible to many, but it's essential to meet certain safety requirements for the well-being of both the skydiver and the instructor. Please review the following eligibility requirements carefully before planning your tandem skydive at our dropzone:
Age Requirements (18+ Only)
In accordance with the United States Parachute Association (USPA), all skydivers must be at least 18 years of age on the date of the skydive. A government-issued photo ID is required for age verification.
The USPA grants waivers to terminally ill patients under 18 who wish to skydive. This is facilitated through organizations like the Make a Wish Foundation. Prior approval is required for such exceptional cases.
Height/Weight Requirements
While we wish we could take everyone skydiving, the unfortunate truth is that there are limitations on who can go skydiving based on height and weight. Before any skydive, we first need to ensure that the tandem harness is able to be worn properly and that the combined weight of you and your instructor will not exceed the limitations set by equipment manufacturers.
Most skydiving dropzones have a weight limit of around 200-250lbs, as long as the skydiver is height/weight appropriate. Some dropzones also apply an additional fee for skydivers with certain heights/weights. This added cost is directly related to the additional work required for a successful skydive, and the associated higher pay rate for the instructor.
Take a look at the chart below to determine if you might need approval before skydiving. If you’re still not sure if you meet the requirements, please contact the dropzone so that they can make a determination for you.
General Health & Fitness
Medical Fitness: All participants must meet the USPA's Basic Safety Requirements for medical fitness. This includes not being on any medications that could impair judgment or performance and being in good overall health.
Recent Activities: Those who have recently gone SCUBA diving or donated blood are advised to wait for a specified period before skydiving.
Consultation: If in doubt about your health and fitness for skydiving, consult a physician. It's important to be confident in your health status before skydiving.
Skydiving with Physical Disabilities
Skydiving is accessible to many individuals with physical disabilities, thanks to the nature of tandem skydiving. It's important to inform the dropzone in advance of any physical disabilities that require accommodations.
Basic Safety Requirements (BSRs) Compliance
All skydivers must comply with the USPA's Basic Safety Requirements. This includes possessing a current FAA Third-Class Medical Certificate or a certificate of physical and mental fitness for skydiving from a registered physician, or agreeing with the USPA recommended medical statement in Section 4-3.
Alcohol and Drugs Policy
No individual may participate in skydiving if under the influence of alcohol or drugs that could impair faculties in a way contrary to safety. Additionally, skydiving is not permitted within 8 hours after the consumption of any alcoholic beverage.
Please note that these requirements are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of your skydiving experience. If you have any questions or need further clarification on any of these requirements, do not hesitate to contact us. Compliance with these guidelines is mandatory and helps protect the interests of all participants involved.
