The Experience
Ask anyone who has completed this heart stopping Golden Moment and their reply will be 'Just Do It!' Following an expert pre-jump briefing, you will experience the breathtaking thrill of freefall and even learn the basics of steering and landing a modern 'square' gliding parachute, while securely attached to a highly experienced Instructor. A Tandem Skydive in the UK normally takes place from 10,000 to 12,000 feet - and sometimes even higher!
After exiting the aircraft - securely attached to your Instructor! - You will freefall until the Instructor opens the main parachute at about 5,000 feet. You will spend about 30 seconds in freefall (depending on the exit altitude) and reach a speed of around 120 miles per hour! The descent under the large square parachute will take several minutes, during which time you will help to steer it down to the landing area. Don't forget to enjoy the view - you can see for miles on a clear day !
Vital Information
The weight limit per venue varies between 13 and 16 stone. Minimum age is 16. If you're over 39 years old you'll need a signed doctor's certificate. You'll be asked to complete a full medical declaration when you book a date and should be reasonably fit.
The Weather
Jumping is always subject to weather conditions and cancellations for this reason are made with your safety in mind. It is crucial that you call the centre before you leave on the morning of your jump to check weather conditions are suitable.
Session Length
The duration of this experience varies and is dependent on a number of factors such as the weather and the number of participants on the day. As a guide your training and jump will take approx. one hour but you may be at the centre for much of the day.
Numbers
Your training may be shared, your jump will be one-to-one with a fully qualified skydiver.
Spectators
Spectators are welcome and are advised to bring a camera and binoculars to capture the best of the experience. Parachuting is not an ideal spectator’s sport as there is a lot of waiting around. Spectators get bored, especially children. Please make your family and friends aware of this.
What To Wear
Dress warmly and comfortably, wear flat-soled shoes (preferably ankle boots to support your ankle on landing) and bring a sweater as it can get cold on the airfield.
Availability
Most centres operate on Saturdays and Sundays and some operate on selected weekdays. The main season is from March to October. Please note that weekends are particularly busy and should be booked at least six weeks in advance.
Locations
Buckinghamshire, Cambridge, Cumbria, Devon, East Yorkshire, Fife, Gloucestershire, Lincolnshire, Londonderry, Norfolk, North Northamptonshire, Northumberland, Nottinghamshire, Perthshire, Shropshire.
Other information
Most centres operate jumps on a first come first served basis on the day. Venues also offer you the opportunity to purchase a video of your skydive for an additional cost on the day.
