Skip to content
English - United Kingdom
Contact us
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

How to Make Your First Skydive

Options, Safety, and What to Expect

Introduction
Making your first skydive is an exhilarating and life-changing experience. Whether you’re seeking a one-off thrill or the beginning of a long-term hobby, British Skydiving and its affiliated Parachute Training Organisations (PTOs) offer structured, safe, and enjoyable ways to take that leap. This article explains the key options available for your first skydive, safety considerations, what to expect on the day, and how to take your next steps.

1. Overview of First Jump Options

There are three main methods to make your first skydive in the UK:

  • Tandem Skydive: Ideal for first-timers seeking a one-off experience. You’ll be securely attached to a highly trained instructor who controls the jump, allowing you to focus on the thrill.

  • Static Line: A solo jump method where your parachute is deployed automatically via a static line attached to the aircraft. It involves approximately six hours of ground training.

  • Accelerated Freefall (AFF): The fastest route to becoming a qualified skydiver. You jump from 12,000 to 15,000 feet accompanied by two instructors and begin learning freefall control from the very first jump.

2. Safety Standards and Medical Fitness

British Skydiving operates under a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Exposition and adheres to rigorous national safety standards. All training is delivered by certified instructors, and all PTOs follow uniform operational procedures.

Before your jump, you must:

  • Be medically fit. Tandem students must complete a declaration form; static line and AFF students may require a doctor’s sign-off.

  • Meet age requirements. You must be at least 16 years old to skydive in the UK. Under-18s need written parental consent.

3. What to Expect on the Day of Your Jump

Each jump type has its own schedule and preparation. Here's a general timeline:

  • Arrival and Registration: Arrive early to complete paperwork and meet your instructor.

  • Training: Tandem jumpers receive a safety briefing; static line and AFF students undergo extensive ground training (approx. 6 hours).

  • Gear Up: You’ll be equipped with a jumpsuit, helmet, goggles, altimeter, and radio (for solo jumps).

  • The Flight: Aircraft will ascend to the appropriate altitude. Enjoy stunning views and adrenaline build-up!

  • The Jump: You or your instructor will exit the aircraft. Static line and AFF jumps include body position control; tandem jumpers enjoy the ride.

  • The Canopy Ride: After parachute deployment, you’ll float for several minutes, guided to the landing zone.

  • Landing: Controlled by you (with radio assistance) or by your tandem instructor.

4. Choosing the Right PTO (Drop Zone)

British Skydiving has over 20 affiliated PTOs across the UK. Each is certified to provide instruction and operate safely. You can find your nearest centre using the "Where Can I Skydive?" tool on the British Skydiving website.

Factors to consider:

  • Location and accessibility

  • Available jump methods (some offer AFF only, others tandem only)

  • Cost and package deals

  • Experience level of instructors

5. After Your First Jump: What Next?

Many first-timers choose to continue skydiving. Here’s how you can progress:

  • AFF or Static Line Training: If you began with tandem, your next step may be enrolling in an AFF or static line course.

  • Earning Your A Licence: Completing AFF or static line progression leads to an A Licence, your first formal skydiving qualification.

  • Join a Club or Team: Meet others, join university clubs or development events, and explore disciplines like freefly, wingsuiting, or formation skydiving.

Conclusion

Your first skydive is more than a thrill ride—it’s an entry point into a supportive, safety-conscious, and vibrant community. With the right preparation, a reputable PTO, and support from British Skydiving, you can take to the skies with confidence and joy. To begin, visit our "Become a Skydiver" page or contact your nearest drop zone.