In a nutshell, skydiving involves leaping out of a plane and controlling the descent to earth. There are four different types of jump that can be made: static line rounds, static line squares, accelerated freefall and tandem.
During a static line round jump the diver will leave the aircraft no higher than 3,500 feet and the round parachute will open automatically for a gentle descent. Automatic parachute opening is also a feature of static line square jumps. The main difference here is that the parachute is square and affords more control over the fall.
Accelerated freefalls are perhaps the jumps most commonly associated with skydiving. Divers will jump from 12,000 feet for 45-60 seconds before opening their parachute upon reaching 5,000 feet.
A tandem jump is one of the simplest forms of skydiving: divers will be attached to a trainer who controls the parachute. Jumps can take place from 10,000 feet and will include around 30 seconds of freefall.
Who can do it?
Anyone aged 18-40 (16+ will require parental consent) can take part in static line and accelerated freefall jumps. The age limit may be raised for tandem jumps. Participants over 40 may require a medical certificate from their doctor. Weight restrictions will normally apply: 14 stones is generally the maximum weight allowed. Tandem jumps can offer disabled people the chance to experience skydiving.
Where can I do it?
There are four sites in Scotland: Skydive Strathallan near Auchterarder, Paragon Skydiving in Errol and Skydive St Andrews are all affiliated with the British Parachute Association. The Stirling Parachute Centre also offers skydiving courses.
When can I do it?
Courses take place throughout the year and jumps are weather dependent. Most clubs will open over weekends and bank holidays, some offer jumps during the week when prices will be cheaper.
What equipment do I need?
The club will provide all equipment. All you need to do is turn up in comfortable clothing and, preferably, trainers.
How much does it cost?
Tandem jumps range from £225-£250 and static line jumps from £140-165. Prices for accelerated freefall jumps can begin from £160 but it's common to block book 8-10 jumps at a time which increases the cost. These prices include training and kit hire. Divers will often begin their new hobby by progressing from a static line jump to accelerated freefall, although it's not always necessary to complete the former. An accelerated freefall course could lead to you gaining a basic skydiving licence in a matter of days, after around 8 jumps.
Page first published on Thursday 7th February 2008
Page last updated on Wednesday 11th June 2008
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