TANDEM FAQ
Below you will find the most common and frequently asked questions as well as each answer. If you have any more open questions to which you cannot find answers on our website, please don’t hesitate to contact us anytime through our contact
Do I need to pre-book my Tandem Skydive?
Yes pre- booking is essential, we are very busy and do not want you to be disappointed if we are fully booked on the day.
How long does the Skydive Take?
The time of arrival to the drop zone is stated on your confirmation. There is paperwork to complete before we can take you to your tandem briefing and getting into the air. Allow half a day for your experience, but you may be done sooner. Spectators should arrive with you at the same time to guarantee seeing you. (Dogs are allowed as long as they are on leads.)
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable shoes that will not fall off during free fall and casual clothing. Sports clothing is ideal. UK Parachuting will supply you with goggles . It can get cold at altitude especially during winter, so we suggest you bring a warm top with you. You can buy hoodies at the reception.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes we have a weight limit, check out the information included in the type of jump you are taking. NO EXCEPTIONS!
Are there any physical requirements?
You are required to lift your legs up in front of you to avoid injury to yourself and your instructor on landing. You must have the strength, flexibility and limb control to achieve this. We have BMI restrictions in place to ensure this is achievable. The maximum permitted 39.9 to 39.0. If you have any chronic health issues you must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate before jumping. If you have limited mobility or limb control, we may well be able to take you skydiving! Get in contact to organise an assessment with our Chief Instructor.
Sibson sibsonci@ukparachuting.co.uk
Beccles jump@ukparachuting.co.uk
Is there an age limit?
Young and old can participate in Skydiving as long as you are physically fit and healthy. We have a minimum age limit of 16 years old. No maximum age limit, although the elderly need to be healthy and physically able to perform a Skydive.
How fast do we freefall?
You will freefall at speeds 150 mph.
What if I wear glasses or contacts?
We will supply you with skydive goggles that can go over glasses and contacts.
Can we have one video for all of us in our group?
No the video is taken of each individual person. The Tandem instructor films his passenger only. We have separation in the air for safety reasons, so can't film the group at the same time.
What if the weather is bad on the day of my jump?
Skydiving is weather dependent, and safety is our first priority. We will assess weather conditions on the day and our safety officer will make the call on whether it is safe to jump or not. If you cannot skydive due to weather conditions, we will reschedule you for another date of your choosing.
What will the skydive feel like?
The sensation of freefall is more like flying than falling. The parachute flight is quiet, inspiring and awesome!
Can we a picnic or bring our own food and drinks?
We do allow you to bring your own drinks onto the premises. UK Parachuting in both Beccles and Sibson have a skydive diner where hot and cold snack, meals and drinks can be purchased.
Time Delays?
We try our best to run on time but please be aware that there are many factors which influence our Skydives running on time, such as Air traffic, weather, Aircraft technical issues etc.
Can my friends and family come watch and take photos?
Yes your friends and family are welcome to come and support you on the day of your jump. There are areas on the Drop Zone that are prohibited to spectators so please look out for the signs demarcating the prohibited areas.
Can I drink alcohol before I jump?
No we do not allow you to drink before your jump as your safety is important to us and we want you to enjoy your experience to the fullest.
If I have a disability can I Skydive?
We have taken many people with disabilities and you should be able to Skydive with almost any disability. You would need to consult with your doctor first and our safety officer on the Drop Zone will decide if you can Skydive safely or not.
Is there a credit card facility at the Drop Zone?
Yes we do have a credit card facility and also accept cash
What happens if the parachute does not open?
In an unlikely event that the main parachute does not open properly there is a reserve parachute in the top of the container that is packed by a certified parachute rigger. All our parachutes are also equipped with an AAD (automatic activation devise) in an unforeseen circumstance where the tandem Instructor is not able to deploy the parachute, this devise will automatically deploy the reserve parachute.
Will I be scared?
It's part of our human nature to be wary of the unknown, so you will definitely feel a feeling of excited anticipation before your jump. This is a perfectly normal part of the skydiving experience. Our experienced tandem masters will put you at ease and during your jump you will feel a thrill that is indescribable. Enjoy your jump!