General Skydiving Questions
How experienced are the instructors?
Our instructors are all United States Parachute Association (USPA) qualified and have over 24,000+ jumps combined and over 55 years combined in the sport.
Should I tip my instructor?
Tipping is not expected, but is always greatly appreciated.
Most of the costs associated with your jump are aviation and equipment costs. Your instructors are service providers and earn a small per jump wage. If you feel your instructor has provided you with an enjoyable experience, let them know! Everyone at Skydive Central New York works hard to help make your first jump (and subsequent jumps) safe, exciting, and something to talk about for years to come.
Do I have to make a reservation to go skydiving, and if so, how far in advance?
Reservations are highly recommended to hold the best time slot for you.
Reservations are important for your benefit, but walk-ins are always welcome.
Students with reservations will be offered priority service over walk-ins. So, if you make your reservation with as much advance notice as possible, we'll hold open the best time slot for you. In order to do this, we require a non-refundable deposit.
What if the weather is bad?
Reservations are held regardless of the weather. Please do not email, call or text us about the weather unless directed to do so.
- If the day looks like it will be a complete wash we will contact you. However, we always do our best to try and wait out the weather. Please show up for your scheduled appointment, and a decision can be made at that time. Tandem and AFF students will complete the classroom portion of their training regardless of the weather.
- High winds or low clouds may prevent us from jumping, but we’ll get you checked in and trained so you'll be prepared to jump when the weather clears, or if we have to reschedule you. We have a pool table, ping pong, darts etc. to pass the time. Neither we, you, nor the weathermen, are 100% accurate at predicting the weather.
What kind of parachute will we use?
The parachutes used are specifically designed, large "ram-air" canopies.
A ram-air canopy is a high technology "square" wing-like parachute, as opposed to the old style round parachutes.
What is your weight limit?
210 lbs, with the clothes and shoes you plan on jumping in (weighed on our scale), and height/weight proportionate, to make a tandem or AFF skydive.
I’m over 210 lbs. Can I still jump?
Some exceptions MAY be made on a case-by-case basis up to 230 lbs, if you are physically fit. (This does not apply to AFF Students).
BEFORE you make your reservation OR purchase a gift certificate, please email us for more information. Additional charges are added if you are over 210 lbs and discounts will not be applied.
What is the weight limit and/or physical requirements for the Accelerated Free Fall program?
This weight limit is a strict 210 lbs and height/weight proportionate.
You must also be in good physical shape, not overweight, and flexible.
If you are over 50 years old, please email us to set up an appointment for a physical fitness evaluation prior to making a reservation (this is required for the Accelerated Free Fall Training Program only).
How long does the entire process take?
Plan on spending at least 2 - 4 hours (longer for large groups) if you’re making a Tandem Skydive.
We can usually get you skydiving sooner, but many variables such as weather, aircraft availability and other students could extend your stay with us. Feel free to bring books, magazines, hacky sacks, or other things to do just in case. Bringing light snacks and water is also highly recommended.
Plan on spending the whole day if you are doing Solo AFF.
Due to the preparation training for each jump, wind and cloud limitations, and other students, it is best to clear your calendar to spend the whole day with us to get the most benefit.
Are there any age limitations or physical restrictions?
Minimum age is 18, with a valid government-issued photo identification (Passport or US or Canadian Driver’s License).There is no upper age limit as long as you are in good health and physical condition, and weigh 210 lbs or less.
Skydiving is a very physical sport, so being in good physical condition is imperative. If you cannot bend your knees completely, raise your feet up in front of you from a seated position, kneel, or sit on your heels, you may not want to attempt to skydive.
Are you over 70?
We strongly suggest coming in for an evaluation prior to making a reservation. Please email us before coming in to ensure an instructor will be available to speak with you.
If I am under 18 can I still jump if my parents sign for me?
No.
The age requirement of 18 is set forth due to the "hold harmless" waivers every skydiver must agree to and sign. These waivers are only binding if the person signing is at the age of consent, 18, or older.
What will the skydive feel like?
The sensation of freefall is more like flying than falling, and the parachute flight is quiet and inspiring.
Why is there a weight limit?
Everything in aviation is based on weight.
Jumper Safety
The heavier the person is, the harder they are for the Tandem Instructor to safely manage. This takes a very experienced and properly trained instructor to handle.
The heavier the student, the harder it is to safely exit the plane, control the student in free fall and under parachute, and make a controlled landing.
The increased weight also makes for harder parachute openings, decreased parachute control, and can result in harder landings, which over time takes its toll on the instructors back, knees and shoulders.
The student’s actions, physical ability, physical size, body shape and weight can have very serious consequences if not evaluated and handled properly. Anyone over 210 lbs is evaluated by an instructor prior to being given the “go-ahead".
Equipment Safety and Operational Costs
The gear we use to jump with is only rated up to a certain weight; this includes both the instructor and the student weights combined, plus the gear itself.
Our planes are small and can only handle up to a certain weight; this includes the pilot, the jumpers, and the fuel.
For the skydive company, just like the airlines and shipping companies (like UPS), increased weight means it will take longer for the airplane to climb to altitude. As a result, this is more wear and tear on the plane and engine, increased maintenance, less loads that we can fly in a day, and more fuel burned.
The increased weight also increases the wear and tear on the equipment.
All of this increases our costs and can result in lost revenue. This is why airlines charge larger customers for two seats if they don’t fit properly into one seat.
Is skydiving dangerous?
Of course it's dangerous. You jump out of a plane miles above the earth.
The only thing to slow a skydiver down is a chunk of nylon about the size of your living room. Then again, danger is part of the point.
When are you open?
Our season runs from early-April through the end of October; by appointment and weather permitting.
Can I bring my GoPro on my tandem skydive?
No.
When you make a tandem skydive, you are considered a student skydiver. Per the rules of the United States Parachute Association, student skydivers cannot jump with any kind of video or photography equipment until you have 200 jumps. For the safety of you and your instructor, you will not be permitted to bring along a camera, even a small format sports camera. Your instructor may use these tools to record your jump for you.
How do I become a Skydive Instructor?
Once you have made at least one jump with us you will have the opportunity to speak with your instructor on “Skydiving as a Career.”
This is your opportunity to sit down and meet with the instructors at Skydive Central New York, find out everything there is to know about being a Skydive Instructor, and ask any questions you may have. Check out our Skydiving as a Career page.
Is it safe?
The sport of skydiving has been made as safe as possible with the current technology and training methods available.
Skydive Central New York owns the latest student and tandem gear.
All of the equipment used at Skydive Central New York is serviced and maintained by FAA Master Parachute Riggers. While skydiving is an inherently dangerous sport, just as driving a car is an inherently dangerous activity, we take every precaution to ensure your safety while on our drop zone.
Before Your Jump
What do I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing and athletic shoes. No bare feet, boots, or sandals are allowed.
On warm sunny days you may choose to jump in shorts and a t-shirt.
On cooler days jeans and a long sleeved shirt or sweatshirt may be appropriate.
Ladies should wear a t-shirt.
Skydive Central New York will provide goggles (for with or without glasses) and all necessary skydiving equipment.
What time should my spectators show up.
Spectators should arrive within 30 minutes of your show up time.
Can my friends and family come and watch?
Yes, from our designated viewing area only.
We have a small, shaded patio area and picnic tables in our viewing area.
Spectators should arrive within 30 minutes of your reservation time.
We do not own most of the airplanes and hangar areas you see, and as such, these areas are strictly off limits.
**Please note, that this is an active airport, and small children must be properly supervised by a parent or guardian on the ground at all times.
How early should we show up for our reservation?
If you pre-registered and filled out the paper work online, show up at the time you selected for your reservation.
If you did not pre-register online, please show up at least 30 minutes early. To register online Click Here.
May I bring my dog?
No.
We love dogs, too, but for many reasons pets are not allowed on the airport property at any time.
Please ensure your spectator friends are aware of this.
How much will I owe on the day of the jump?
This depends on the day of the week, group size, and whether you pay in cash or credit. See our pricing chart. Find the price that matches your jump, and subtract the $99 non-refundable deposit. This is your total. Media packages are additional.
You may also want to bring a little extra for a gratuity if your instructor has provided an enjoyable experience.
Will I have to sign a waiver?
Yes, it is required to jump.
Everyone at Skydive Central New York is required to sign a waiver.
Tandem students sign an additional waiver releasing tandem equipment manufacturers from liability.
Skydiving is not an amusement park ride. Nothing can guarantee that if you jump from a plane you won't get hurt or worse. Skydiving can seriously injure or kill you.
On the bright side, accidents are extremely rare in skydiving and we do everything possible to ensure your safety.
Can I have an alcoholic beverage before I jump?
No. The use of alcohol or illegal drugs before your jump is not permitted.
Drinking alcoholic beverages or using illegal drugs before your skydive is not only not advised, we won't even take you skydiving. Skydiving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is just a bad idea. What you do on your own time is up to you. What you do when you're with us is our business.
Should I eat before my jump?
Yes.
Eat a nutritious breakfast or lunch. Light carbohydrates and plenty of water or juice. Do not over eat.
Can I have my jump photographed?
Yes.
Pictures and video services, complete with a music soundtrack (in freefall, no one can hear you scream) are available.
How do I cancel my reservation?
Reservations cannot be canceled.
Reservations of 1 to 4 people – the reservation can be rescheduled prior to 72 hours before the jump if the organizer emails. Doing this will avoid forfeiting your deposit.
Groups or 5 or more – the reservation cannot be rescheduled.
During Your Jump
What if I panic, pass-out, get hurt and can't pull the ripcord?
In most circumstances, your instructor will be deploying the parachute.
In the event of an injury to the instructor or an AFF student, all of Skydive Central New York's rigs are equipped with a device called an Automatic Activation Device (AAD).
This device constantly measures your speed and altitude during your skydive and -- if you are going too fast too low -- it will deploy your reserve parachute for you.
Are the landings hard?
Normally, there is less impact than jumping off a chair.
However, skydiving is dangerous and is done in an uncontrolled environment (Mother Nature). Unpredictable winds, turbulence and other weather conditions can make the landings much harder.
How will I feel when the parachute opens?
You will definitely know something is happening, but few people have complained about any discomfort.
How long does the skydive last?
You will freefall for up to 45 seconds and the parachute flight will be about 5 to 7 minutes.
Will I be scared?
That depends on you… maybe, but maybe not.
You will definitely feel a surge of excitement and anticipation before the jump - this is a normal part of the experience. During the jump itself, you'll probably feel a thrill such as you've never experienced, which is the point - so enjoy it!
How long do I freefall?
You will freefall up to 45 seconds.
Can I wear my glasses or contacts?
Yes, either.
We supply goggles for either circumstance, glasses or contacts. Most people find it more comfortable to wear their contacts with the goggles, as the goggles can press your frames against your face.
Can I breathe in freefall?
Yes, however the excitement may leave you breathless!
What does it feel like?
We cannot describe the unique sensations you will feel, but we will tell you that it will be your most exhilarating experience yet!
What if the parachute doesn't open?
Every skydiving rig is equipped with both a main and a reserve parachute.
As a tandem skydiver, you are with a trained professional who knows how to handle a malfunction and deploy the reserve parachute if it's necessary. Skydive Central New York takes your safety very seriously and has never had a fatality.
As a solo student, you are taught how to deploy your main parachute on time, while stable, and to recognize what a malfunction looks like, as well as how to deal with it in a timely manner. If the malfunction is the type that cannot be dealt with, you are trained in the procedure for releasing your main parachute and how to deploy your reserve parachute in plenty of time to have a safe landing.
How many people jump at once?
Our planes carry four jumpers plus one pilot.
We load our planes by weight and balance, other students, licensed jumpers and staffing availability. Therefore, it cannot always be guaranteed that you will jump with a specific person in your reservation/group.
How fast do I freefall?
Freefall averages 120 miles per hour or 200 feet per second.
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