Skydiving is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience that draws thrill-seekers from all walks of life. However, for those new to the sport, one common question is, “How long does the whole skydiving process take?” From the moment you arrive at the drop zone to the moment your feet are back on the ground, a skydiving jump involves several steps. It’s essential to understand the timeline and what happens at each stage of the jump. In this article, we’ll break down the entire skydiving process and how much time each step takes, so you can be well-prepared for your jump.
Arrival at the Drop Zone
The process of skydiving begins when you arrive at the drop zone. A drop zone is a designated area where skydiving activities take place, and it’s usually a large, open space, often located near airports. Upon arrival, you’ll be required to check in with the staff and sign any necessary waivers. This is also when you’ll get suited up for your jump.
Check-in and Paperwork (15-20 minutes)
First, you’ll need to check in with the staff. Depending on the skydiving facility, you may need to provide identification and payment for the jump. It’s also important to fill out a waiver form, acknowledging that you understand the risks associated with the activity. For first-time jumpers, there may be a safety briefing or video to watch, which will take about 10–15 minutes.
Briefing (20-30 minutes)
Next comes the pre-jump briefing. Whether you’re doing a tandem skydive (where you’re attached to an instructor) or a solo jump, this briefing is essential to ensure you know what to expect. For tandem jumpers, the instructor will guide you through the process, explaining body position, how to exit the plane, and what to do in the air. If you’re doing a solo jump and have completed the required training, the briefing will focus on the specific tasks you’ll need to perform.
This stage usually lasts around 20–30 minutes. For tandem jumpers, this includes getting to know your instructor and getting into the harness. If you’re skydiving for the first time, it’s good to ask questions to make sure you feel comfortable and understand everything.
Gear Preparation and Suiting Up (20-30 minutes)
After the briefing, the next step is getting dressed and preparing for the jump. You’ll be given a jumpsuit to wear over your clothing, which helps to maintain your comfort and safety during freefall. The instructor will assist in fitting the harness, which is crucial for ensuring you are securely attached to the parachute system.
Getting Your Harness (10-15 minutes)
For tandem skydivers, the instructor will securely attach you to their harness. This process involves making sure all straps and buckles are fastened tightly, as safety is the top priority. The instructor will also ensure that the parachute system, including the main chute and the automatic activation device (AAD), is correctly set up.
Boarding the Aircraft (15-20 minutes)
Once you’re all geared up and ready to go, it’s time to board the aircraft. Depending on the drop zone, you might be jumping from a small propeller plane or a larger aircraft. You’ll need to board the plane with other skydivers, and the flight will take anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the altitude you’re jumping from.
Ascending to Jump Altitude (15-20 minutes)
The plane will begin climbing to the necessary altitude, which is typically between 10,000 and 14,000 feet. During this ascent, there may be some light conversation between jumpers and instructors, but most people spend this time getting mentally prepared.
While the flight itself takes around 15–20 minutes, the most significant part of this time is spent on mental preparation. It’s normal to feel a combination of excitement and nervousness during the flight, but remember that the instructors are with you every step of the way to guide you through the process.
The Jump Itself (5-7 minutes)
Once the plane reaches jump altitude, it’s time for the moment you’ve been waiting for: the jump! The actual skydiving portion involves exiting the plane, freefalling, and then deploying your parachute.
Exiting the Aircraft (2-3 minutes)
For tandem jumpers, the instructor will guide you to the aircraft door, and the moment you leave the plane, the freefall begins. The freefall typically lasts between 30 and 60 seconds, depending on the altitude.
This is the most thrilling part of the experience. The wind rushes past you at high speed as you fall toward the Earth at around 120 mph (193 km/h).
Freefall (30-60 seconds)
During the freefall, your body will be in a stable belly-to-earth position, and the instructor will be with you, ensuring everything is going smoothly. Some jumpers describe this sensation as floating, while others feel the adrenaline rush of falling at a rapid speed. The instructor may even allow you to control the position of your body for a short time.
Parachute Deployment and Glide (3-5 minutes)
Once you reach around 5,000 feet, the instructor will deploy the parachute. You’ll then begin the slower descent, which can take anywhere from 3 to 5 minutes. During this glide, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the stunning aerial views and enjoy the calmness after the excitement of freefall. The instructor will control the parachute, but some drop zones allow tandem jumpers to help steer the parachute if they wish.
Landing (2-5 minutes)
As you approach the ground, the instructor will guide you through the landing process. They will give you clear instructions on how to prepare your body for a safe and smooth landing. For tandem jumpers, this typically involves lifting your legs and preparing to touch down on your feet.
The Final Touchdown (1-2 minutes)
The actual landing takes only a few seconds, but it’s the final, satisfying step of the skydive. The instructor will use their expertise to bring the parachute in for a soft and controlled landing. Once you’re safely on the ground, the experience is complete.
Post-Jump (15-20 minutes)
After the jump, there will be a brief period of post-jump activities. You’ll typically have time to debrief with the instructor and talk about your experience. Many people also like to take photos or videos to remember the occasion. If you purchased a video package, you’ll be able to watch the footage of your jump, which is often a highlight of the day.
Debriefing and Review (10-15 minutes)
The debriefing is an opportunity for you to ask questions, discuss the jump, and get feedback from your instructor. Most people feel a sense of accomplishment and excitement, and it’s helpful to discuss what went well and how the jump felt.
Socializing and Relaxing (5-10 minutes)
Skydiving is often a social experience, with people sharing their adrenaline-filled stories. If you’re feeling up for it, take some time to chat with fellow jumpers and share your experiences. It’s a great way to wind down after such an intense activity.
Conclusion
The entire skydiving experience, from arrival at the drop zone to landing back on Earth, takes between 2 to 3 hours. While the freefall itself lasts only around 30-60 seconds, the buildup and the post-jump activities can extend the overall experience. Understanding the timeline and knowing what to expect at each stage can help you mentally prepare for the jump and make the whole experience even more enjoyable. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned jumper, skydiving is an adventure that is sure to leave a lasting memory!
Related topics：
