Skydiving FAQs

What is a Tandem Skydive?

Your first time skydiving you won't be in it alone, you'll be strapped to a Tandem Skydiving instructor who's trained not only in safety, but in making sure that you have the best experience possible!

They’ll take you through a short training session where you’ll learn how the jump works, what your role is, how to position your body during freefall, and what to expect under the parachute. You don’t need to memorize anything or be an expert, your main job is to have fun, to take it all in, and enjoy the experience, your instructor will take care of the rest!

Is Tandem Skydiving Hard?

Skydiving is the adrenaline-filled adventure of a lifetime, and it’s actually much easier than people think! It only takes about as much physical exertion as jogging to your mailbox and back. And since your tandem instructor will take care of all of the important stuff (like keeping you stable in the air, pulling the parachute, and guiding you through the breathtaking canopy ride), all you have to do is sit back and enjoy it!

What if I’m scared to go skydiving?

It's natural to feel nervous about skydiving for the first time. But remember, you'll be in the hands of one of our professional and charismatic tandem instructors. They're trained not just in safety procedures, but also in helping passengers manage their nerves and have an altogether amazing experience. The excitement and exhilaration once you're in the air often way outweigh any initial fears, and many find the experience empowering and liberating!

How high is the skydive? How long/fast will I fall?

Our typical skydive is 13,000ft, and you’ll be in freefall for up to 50 of the most exhilarating seconds of your life. Freefall speeds average 120 miles per hour. It doesn’t feel like falling, though, it feels like being supported by air. Then, expect a beautiful parachute ride for about 4-7 minutes over the beautiful landscape below. 

What does it feel like to freefall?

Jumping out of an airplane is an incredible feeling. Most people expect the stomach dropping sensation of a roller coaster, but freefall is delightfully different. Imagine floating more than falling… like a cushion of wind, pushing gently against you from below. That's what it feels like on the outside. On the inside, it's indescribable. Words will never do it justice, so we won't even try! It's just something you're going to have to experience for yourself.

What does the parachute ride feel like?

After the heart-pounding thrill of freefall, your parachute will open and you'll feel like you're floating on air. You'll have tons of time to take in the incredible views from a vantage point very few people get to experience. At this point, you and your instructor have the reins. Whether you prefer a thrilling roller coaster ride with twists and turns or a gentle, peaceful descent, the choice is yours. If conditions are right, you might even get a chance to steer the parachute yourself!

Should I expect a hard landing?

Every landing is different, but you can typically expect your touch–down to feel less jarring than what you’d experience if you jumped from a chair. We use large parachutes and have a team of highly skilled instructors that really know what they’re doing. Obviously we can’t predict every scenario, and wind, weather, weight, your cooperation, and other factors can definitely play a role in what your landing feels like. We can’t guarantee a perfect tip-toe touchdown, but you shouldn’t go into it expecting a hard fall.

What are the requirements for Tandem Skydiving?

The first step to a successful skydive is to make sure that you can skydive in the first place! Almost anyone can skydive, but there are a few requirements that exist for the safety of both the skydiver and the instructor.

In simplest terms, you need to be at least 18 years old, be under 230lbs, and be generally healthy. For more detailed information, check out our Tandem Skydiving Requirements page.

How old do I need to be to go skydiving?

The USPA mandates that anyone skydiving within US territory must be at least 18 years old. Don't forget to bring a photo ID to confirm your age when you come to jump! Unfortunately, parents cannot sign for jumpers under 18 under any circumstances, no exceptions to this rule.

But while there is a minimum age, there’s definitely no maximum age limit to go skydiving. We often see people in their 60s, 70s, 80s, and even 90s who come to check skydiving off their bucket lists!

Is there a weight limit to go skydiving?

Our tandem instructors can typically fly with a tandem passenger weighing up to 230 lbs. For people over 200lbs, we ask that you be in good physical condition and height/weight proportionate for the safety of both you and your instructor. Skydivers over 200lbs may also incur an additional fee. For more information about this, check out our Requirements and Safety page.

View our Tandem Skydiving Height/Weight Chart if you’re unsure if you meet the requirements. If you’re still unsure, please give us a call or send us a message and we’ll have one of our tandem instructors make a determination for you!

Are there any other health requirements or limitations?

Skydiving is the adrenaline-filled adventure of a lifetime. While high-speed fun can sometimes mean health limitations, skydiving is actually not as intimidating as it may seem. Skydiving only takes about as much physical exertion as jogging to your mailbox and back would. That being said, all participants in skydiving must still meet the USPA’s Basic Safety Requirements for medical fitness.

Make sure that you’re in good health and physical condition and not on any medications which could affect your judgment or performance. Also, make sure your instructor knows about any medical conditions that may affect your skydive. People who have recently gone SCUBA diving or donated blood should wait a period of time before skydiving.

For more information, visit our Requirements and Safety page.

When should I arrive at the dropzone?

Whatever time you book your skydive for is your show time, no need to get to the Dropzone any earlier, but arriving 10-15 minutes early will certainly help things run smoothly! Keep in mind that you might spend over 3 hours at the skydiving center depending on weather and scheduling factors, so please plan for a full half-day for the experience.

What should I bring (or not bring)?

When you’re packing up for your skydiving adventure make sure you’re only taking what’s absolutely necessary. Make sure you have a form of payment and a photo ID to prove your age. You can bring your phone to the dropzone, but you won’t be able to take it with you on the actual skydive.

What clothing should I wear for my skydive?

Skydiving doesn’t require you to purchase any fancy skydiving suit or special gear, we will provide you with all of the safety equipment you need for a successful jump. Make sure you wear athletic clothing that’s comfortable and snug, along with closed-toed shoes that don’t slip off. 

Please do not wear flip flops, sandals, heels, heavy shoes, or boots with hooks.

Be sure to leave any loose jewelry and accessories at home, or remove them before your jump. We also suggest wearing seasonally appropriate clothing, but keep in mind that it will be slightly colder during freefall due to the elevation, so snug layers are never a bad idea!

Can I wear my glasses when I skydive?

We will provide you with goggles that can be placed over eyewear when skydiving, but there is still a risk of losing them. If you have contacts or glasses with a smaller frame, opt to wear those instead.

What should I eat/drink before my skydive?

Make sure that you eat a good meal about an hour before your scheduled time. Be sure to bring some snacks in case you’re at the dropzone longer than anticipated due to the weather. Leave enough time for the food to digest, but not so much time that you’re starving once it’s time to skydive. You don’t want anything to take your focus away from the experience!

It’s also important to make sure that you’re well-hydrated before your first skydive, and that you use the restroom before you get on the plane. Once you leave the dropzone, it’ll be about 30-40 min until your feet are back on the ground, so plan accordingly!

Should I drink alcohol the night before my skydive?

Drinking alcohol the night before or the day of a skydive is a terrible idea, trust us. The FAA and USPA both require a minimum of 8 hours after drinking to skydive but recommend a full 24 hours.

Skydive the Wasatch strictly enforces this, and will not allow you to jump if you’re intoxicated or impaired in any way. This is not only for your safety but for the safety of our instructors and the other skydivers as well.

On top of that, skydiving hungover (even if you’re no longer impaired) can be an easy way to lose your lunch and leave your instructor with a very smelly rest of the day.

What does it cost to go skydiving?

The cost of a skydiving experience depends on a few factors, including what day of the week and time you go, the experience you want, and if you want to add photo/video. Take a look at our Pricing Page for all pricing & package information!

Why is Skydiving so expensive?

We get it, it’s not pocket change. But skydiving isn’t your average weekend activity. You’re hitching a ride in a specially outfitted aircraft, flying thousands of feet above the earth, and jumping out strapped to a highly trained professional with gear that costs more than most used cars. Add in certified instructors, maintenance, fuel, licensing, inspections, parachute rigs, and years of experience… and, yeah… it adds up.

Think of it like this: it’s the most thrilling half of a domestic flight you’ll ever take, but instead of landing in a new city, you land in a feeling of adrenaline, pure joy, and total “aliveness”. The kind that shakes you awake in the best way, that sticks with you long after your feet touch the ground.

Don’t think it’s worth it? Just read our reviews. It’s not cheap, but it is unforgettable. And honestly? That kind of feeling is priceless.

Can I get a better price at another dropzone?

In this area? Probably not. It does depend on the day of week, time, and other factors (each dropzone structures their pricing differently), but skydiving at any of the dropzones in the Salt Lake City area will cost you pretty much the same. The only question is what kind of experience, view, and video you’re going to get with that money… and we think ours is the best! (Obviously).

What happens if there’s inclement weather?

Due to FAA restrictions, skydiving can only take place in clear skies. Clouds, rain, and wind may cause delays. We will do the best we can to call you in advance if your jump needs to be delayed, but it’s always a good idea to call us before making the drive out, especially if you’re traveling a long distance. 

What do you consider “inclement weather”?

Safety is our top priority, and skydiving is a weather-dependent activity that must follow strict FAA regulations. "Inclement weather" refers to any conditions that make it unsafe to jump, including (but not limited to):

• Heavy Clouds: FAA regulations prohibit skydivers from exiting the aircraft through clouds. If the cloud cover prevents instructors from seeing the ground from jump altitude, we must delay or cancel operations.
  
• Rain: While it might seem like a light drizzle wouldn't hurt, rain at 120 mph can feel like getting pelted by gravel. Not only is it painful, but it can also damage gear and impair visibility. For your safety and comfort, we do not operate in the rain.
  
• Wind: Gusty or high winds can create unsafe skydiving and landing conditions. Even if it doesn’t feel super windy on the ground, the winds at higher altitudes can be completely different from what you’re feeling at the dropzone. If winds exceed safe limits, we will pause operations and reschedule your skydive if need be.

If you're ever unsure about the weather, we highly recommend giving us a call before heading out, especially if you're traveling a long distance. Our staff monitors conditions closely and will give you the best estimate on jumping conditions. 

Can I reschedule my skydive, or cancel & get a refund?

We get that life happens. If you need to reschedule, just give us a call at least 24 hours in advance and we’ll happily move your jump to a new day. If you cancel more than 24 hours ahead of time, we’ll refund everything except your deposit. 

Why’s the deposit non-refundable? That spot you reserved comes with real costs on our end, staffing, aircraft prep, gear planning, etc… so we hang onto the deposit to help cover that. But we’ll always do our best to work with you if plans change!

If your skydive gets canceled due to weather, you won’t lose your deposit, we’ll just get you rebooked for a better day.

What Photo/Video Options do you offer?

Your first skydive only happens once, and you’re definitely going to want to remember it, re-live it, and have ever-lasting proof that you actually jumped out of a perfectly good airplane. 

Luckily, we have lots of Photo & Video Package options to help you capture the entire experience. Check out the options, and give us a call if you have any questions or want to try to set up something custom!

How & when will I get my Photos/Videos after the jump?

You’ll receive an email within 24 hours of your skydive that has a link to your skydiving footage. Through the link, you’ll be able to view and download all of the incredible photos and videos (depending on your package) of your skydiving experience. 

Can I bring my own camera on the jump?  

No, we do not allow outside video equipment on the plane or the skydive. The United States Parachute Association mandates that skydivers have a minimum of 200 jumps prior to taking a camera into freefall.

Safety is our top priority, and we want you to be focusing on the experience, not getting the best shot (that’s what our staff is for!). Even though you can’t take your own camera in the air, you are more than welcome to take as many photos as you would like on the ground before and after your skydive! 

Do separate video and/or picture packages need to be purchased for each individual skydiver?

Yes, due to the nature of the skydive, each tandem pair will be around 1/4 mile away from the next tandem pair. At this distance, it is impossible to film both tandem pairs with one camera.

How dangerous is it to skydive?

We get this question a lot, and we totally get it. Jumping out of a plane isn’t exactly your average weekend plan. But here’s the thing: thanks to strict regulations, advanced gear, and thorough training, skydiving is far more calculated, controlled, and safe than most people realize.

In fact, statistically speaking, you’re more likely to be injured on your daily commute than on a tandem skydive. While no extreme sport is risk-free, skydiving is a highly regulated activity with strict safety protocols. 

At Skydive the Wasatch, we go above and beyond those standards:

• Every skydiver jumps with two parachutes, a main and a reserve.
• All reserve parachutes are inspected and repacked every 180 days by an FAA-certified parachute rigger (even if they’ve never been used).
• Each rig includes an Automatic Activation Device (AAD) that deploys the parachute automatically if needed.
• Our tandem instructors are USPA-certified and have completed extensive training and evaluations.

We don’t take safety lightly. If you still have questions, we encourage you to check out the data and standards from the USPA, or just give us a call. We’re always happy to talk you through it.

How experienced are the instructors?

Our instructors at Skydive the Wasatch are incredibly friendly and talented professionals, who are all USPA-licensed and FAA-certified Tandem Skydiving Instructors.

To become a skydiving instructor you need to be a member of the USPA and log 500 jumps and 3 hours of freefall, MINIMUM. The instructors at Skydive the Wasatch have all made well over the required minimums and are some of the best in the entire industry.

Should I tip my instructor?

They’d deeply appreciate it! A tip is a great way of communicating your satisfaction with the jump, and making your hard-working instructor smile.

How many people can jump at one time?

If you want to jump with a friend or friends, you’re in luck! Our aircraft carries 2 tandem pairs per load. Your group is larger than 2? Not to worry, large groups will go up 2 at a time while the rest of the group cheers each other on from the hangar. We take off and land right in front of the waiting area, so everyone gets to participate in each other’s jumps.

Do you offer group rates/discounts?

Yes we do! See our excellent group rates here for a fun outing with your most adventurous friends, family members, church buddies and coworkers!

Visit our Group Skydiving page to learn more about bringing a crew to jump with us!

Can I bring my dog to the dropzone?

Unfortunately, most dogs and Skydiving dropzones don’t mix. No matter how well-behaved your pup is, an active airfield with planes, parachutes, and lots of moving people just isn’t a safe environment for pets.

You might spot Carl (our owner Leon’s dog) snoozing in the hangar or supervising ground operations. But Carl grew up here. He knows the ropes, he’s trained for the chaos, and honestly? He kind of runs the place.

For safety reasons (for both dogs and humans), we ask that you leave your pets at home unless you’ve made prior arrangements or received explicit approval from staff. But don’t worry, they’ll enjoy the video of you skydiving later!

Can you help me propose? How about a gender reveal?

Absolutely! At Skydive the Wasatch, we’d love to help you take a special experience and make it even more exciting! Please contact us directly for more information on special events.

Want to learn more? Check out our Groups & Special Events Page for more on custom events and to learn more about group rates and discounts.

Do you offer flag jumps or stadium fly-ins?

Yes we do, and we love them! Our team offers professional demo jumps, stadium fly-ins, and large-scale flag displays for special events across Utah and the United States. Whether it’s a halftime show, Fourth of July celebration, rodeo, parade, or private event, we can help you make an entrance to remember..

We work closely with your venue, local officials, and the FAA to coordinate airspace, timing, and logistics, and we’ll tailor everything to fit your event. From flying the American flag into a packed stadium to landing with smoke trails and sponsor banners, we’ve got you covered.

Learn more about our Skydiving Demo Jumps here. Ready to talk through an idea or see if your location is jump-friendly? Reach out and let’s plan something epic.

Can I go skydiving by myself?

Not on your first jump… but yes, eventually! If you’ve never skydived before, you’ll need to start with a tandem jump or enroll in a certified training program like IAD (Instructor Assisted Deployment). 

That means your first few jumps will be supervised and supported by a licensed instructor who either assists with deployment or handles it completely.

As you progress through training, you’ll begin making solo jumps, where you deploy your own parachute and work toward full freefall skills. Once you complete your training requirements and pass your test, you can jump totally solo, no instructor required.

How do I get my skydiving license?

You’ll earn your USPA A-License by completing a series of training jumps and skills under instructor supervision. The requirements include:

• 25 total jumps
• Successful completion of all USPA Category A-H objectives
• Demonstration of safe freefall skills and accurate landings
• A passing score on the USPA written exam

At Skydive the Wasatch, we guide you through all of that in our IAD program, with personalized coaching, progress tracking, and full support until you're cleared for solo flight.

Once you have your A-License, you’re officially a licensed skydiver, free to jump at any USPA dropzone in the country.

What is IAD, and how is it different from AFF?

IAD stands for Instructor Assisted Deployment. It’s one of the methods used to train new skydivers and get them safely and confidently jumping solo. Unlike AFF (Accelerated Freefall), where students jump with two instructors holding onto them in freefall, IAD students exit the plane solo while the instructor stays on board and deploys the parachute as the student exits.

This method allows students to focus first on parachute handling and canopy control before progressing to freefall skills. At Skydive the Wasatch, we believe that mastering parachute skills early on is crucial to long-term skydiving safety and success.

As students progress, they gradually take on more responsibility, eventually deploying their own parachutes and completing freefall jumps as they work toward their USPA A-License.

How long does the IAD program take?

That depends on your schedule, the weather, and how often you jump, but most students can expect to earn their A-License over the course of several weeks to a few months.

The more consistently you jump and train, the faster your progression. Our instructors will help you set a realistic pace that works for you.

How much does the program cost?

Costs vary based on how many jumps you need, how quickly you progress, and how much gear you rent vs. own. That said, IAD is generally more affordable than AFF, making it a popular choice for first-time solo jumpers.

We’ll provide a full breakdown of training costs, gear rental, and licensing fees when you start your progression.

What makes our training program unique?

We’re not a skydiving factory, we’re a small, tight-knit dropzone that takes pride in giving every student the time, attention, and support they deserve. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Personalized coaching from start to finish: You won’t get lost in a crowd here. Our instructors work with you one-on-one to help you build skills and confidence at your own pace.
• More jumps, more feedback, more progress: Because we keep our student numbers low, you get more airtime, more attention, and more opportunity to grow with every jump.
• Stay on-site and stay in the zone: Our on-site camping and facilities make it easy to keep the momentum going. Pitch a tent, hang by the fire, and focus fully on your training. Or just come to hang out with us!
• A program (and a community) built around you: From your first jump to your A-License, you’ll be guided by people who know your name, care about your success, and genuinely want to see you thrive. We don’t just train skydivers, we welcome you into the family.

What should I do if I’m interested in the program?

Easy, just reach out! We’ll set up a time to talk through your goals, give you an overview of what to expect, and help you get started with your ground school and first training jumps.

Give us a call at (385)321-0284, or send us a message.

Do you have indoor facilities?

Yes! We’ve got clean indoor restrooms, an office/lounge area, and a comfortable space to hang out in between loads. It’s not fancy, but it’s functional, well-maintained, and full of people who love skydiving.

Is there a covered packing area?

Yep. We have a covered packing space to keep you and your gear out of the sun (or rain) while you repack. Students and fun jumpers are welcome to use it, just be mindful of space and gear etiquette if things get busy.

Do you have food nearby?

There are a few solid local spots nearby in Nephi, and we’re always happy to give recommendations. Depending on the day, we might even have food trucks or pizza runs going on, just ask when you check in!

Check out our Lodging, Amenities, and Attractions page for a list of some of our favorite spots.

Do you allow camping or RVs?

Yes! We offer on-site camping and RV hookups for fun jumpers and weekend visitors. If you plan to stay overnight, let us know ahead of time so we can help you get set up in the right spot.

Is the dropzone family-friendly?

We love when friends and family come out to watch, especially on sunny days! While the hangar area is busy with gear and jumpers, we’ve got open outdoor space where observers can hang out and watch landings. Just please keep kids supervised and stay within designated viewing areas.

Do you allow fun jumpers?

Duh. Of course we do! We love our fun jumper community, whether you're newly licensed, visiting from out of town, or looking for your home DZ.

To jump solo here, you’ll need to:

• Be 18 or older
• Be a current USPA member with an A-License or higher
• Have a current logbook (digital or analog)
• Have an in-date reserve (FAA 180-day rule)
• Follow currency requirements for your license level

We also highly recommend an AAD, but it’s not required.

What’s the vibe like?

We’re a smaller DZ with big views and zero ego. Expect:

• A laid-back, friendly crew
• Beautiful jump scenery over the Wasatch Front
• Covered packing area + indoor restrooms
• On-site camping & RV hookups
• Bonfires, group jumps, and good people

This is the kind of place where you’re welcome to hang out for the weekend, not just get your jumps in and go.

What are your currency requirements?

We follow USPA’s standard currency rules:

• A-License: jump within the last 60 days
• B-License: jump within the last 90 days
• C & D-License: jump within the last 180 days

If you're out of date, a quick refresher with one of our instructors might be required before jumping.

Do I need to bring my own rig?

We strongly recommend it. We have limited rental gear available, especially on busy weekends, so if you’re planning to rent, call ahead or message us to make sure we have something ready for you.