Minimum Requirements for Skydiving in the UK (Age, Health, Consent)

Introduction
Before making a skydive in the United Kingdom, you must meet certain eligibility requirements set by British Skydiving and supported by national safety regulations. These include age restrictions, health declarations, and (for minors) parental or guardian consent. This article outlines all minimum requirements for participating in skydiving in the UK, whether you're planning a tandem jump, joining a static line course, or starting AFF training.

1. Age Requirements

British Skydiving requires that all jumpers be at least 16 years old. There is no upper age limit, but older participants may be required to provide additional medical documentation depending on their health status.

• Ages 16–17: Must provide written parental or guardian consent prior to participating. This applies across all training methods, including tandem.

• 18 and over: No parental consent required.

Participants under 16 are not permitted to jump under any circumstances, regardless of supervision.

2. Medical Fitness Requirements

Safety in skydiving begins with ensuring that all participants are physically fit to jump. Medical requirements vary slightly depending on the type of skydive you're planning:

• Tandem Skydive: Requires completion of a Solo Student Tandem Medical Declaration (Form 115A). If you cannot self-certify due to a medical condition (e.g., epilepsy, recent surgery), you will need a doctor to complete Form 115B.

• Static Line or AFF Training: Requires a Solo Student Parachutist Medical Declaration (Form 115C). If you answer "yes" to any of the medical questions, you must have a doctor complete Form 115D.

Common disqualifying conditions include:

• Severe heart conditions

• Epilepsy (unless fully controlled and cleared by a doctor)

• Uncontrolled asthma

• Recent surgeries or injuries that impair mobility

• Psychiatric conditions that impair judgment

Participants must also not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the jump.

3. Weight and Height Considerations

While not formal restrictions, most PTOs apply their own guidelines to ensure harnesses fit safely:

• Typical Maximum Weight: 15–16 stone (95–100 kg), though this may vary by centre.

• BMI Checks: Centres may also consider body mass index to assess risk and equipment suitability.

• Height Limits: Rare, but may apply in combination with weight if harness fit becomes an issue.

Always contact your chosen drop zone in advance to confirm their policies.

4. Consent and Documentation

For your jump to be legal and insurable under British Skydiving guidelines, specific paperwork must be completed:

• Signed medical declaration (or doctor-completed form, if applicable)

• Proof of age (e.g., passport or driver’s licence)

• Signed parental/guardian form for under-18s

• Acceptance of terms and conditions set by the PTO

These must be completed prior to or on the day of your jump and submitted to the hosting centre.

5. Accessibility and Special Requirements

British Skydiving supports inclusivity in the sport. Some drop zones may accommodate individuals with disabilities, including those with:

• Lower-limb amputations

• Partial mobility impairments

• Sensory impairments (e.g., deaf or hard-of-hearing)

These cases are assessed individually. A medical clearance and pre-jump planning meeting may be required. Contact your local PTO well in advance to discuss accessibility options.

Conclusion

Meeting the minimum requirements for skydiving in the UK is essential to ensure your safety and legal compliance. From age and medical declarations to consent forms and weight guidelines, understanding what's expected in advance helps your experience run smoothly. Reach out to your local British Skydiving affiliated PTO for help reviewing your eligibility or to obtain the latest forms for your jump.