- What's the big deal about skydiving?
It's like no other activity. You've heard of adrenaline rush? This sport gives that rush from the very first jump. No other sport has such a small learning curve to get the feeling. We've got plenty of club members who've done a lot of sports well. And they know that most people don't get the feeling...........
- How high do you go?
Experienced skydivers are allowed to jump from 2,200' up to 10,500' or higher depending on aircraft. Student first jumps are made from 3,000' and gradually go higher. Progressive freefall jumps start at 10,500'.
- What are your hours of operation?
We are open most week ends and holidays from 9 AM to sunset, April to November. Or, basically when it isn't ski season. We are open weekdays by appointment.
- Where are you located?
We are at the Kamloops Airport on Airport Road. Turn into the parking lot when you've seen our sign. If you've driven to the Airport Terminal, you've gone to far.
- What are the rules?
We follow all of the rules and guidelines established by the Canadian Sport Parachuting Association, which have proven to keep the risks of skydiving to a minimum. All of our instructors and coaches have been qualified through certification courses to prove they have the necessary skills to work with student and progressing skydivers.
- How much does the course cost?
$190, total. We accept cash, Interac, and VISA. Sorry, no Mastercard or American Express.
- What do I get?
Besides a memory for a lifetime? All the training you need to complete the jump. Take home gifts include a First Jump Certificate, a logbook documenting your experience, and a Kamloops Skydivers SPC T-shirt.
- Are there any age requirements to jump?
Yes, you must be at least 19 years of age. It's the Age of Legal Majority in BC. That means you can sign a Legal Waiver.
- Can my parents sign the waiver for me if I'm under 19?
No. Your parents can't waive your legal rights, only you can.
- Are there any physical restrictions?
You must weigh less than 235 lbs or 106 kg. This is the maximum load allowed by the Emergency Parachute, in case you have to use it. Those weighing near the limit should be physically fit.
- What if I wear glasses or contacts?
We'll give you a glasses strap if you don't already have one. For wearers of contacts, you'll get a pair of goggles because the airspeed when you exit the aircraft will dry them out very quickly.
- What should I wear or bring?
You should wear comfortable clothes appropriate for the season. Shorts and T-shirt on a hot day and if it is a cooler day long pants and a long sleeve shirt. A good pair of running shoes work best for foot protection. When making the jump we will provide a jumpsuit, helmet and goggles (as necessary).
- Are the landings rough?
The ram air parachutes used today allow for soft landings as the rule instead of the exception. You'll normally, get more shock jumping from a chair than landing your parachute. Students are taught how to do a Parachute Landing Fall in the event that they misjudge their landing flare and land harder then usual.
- What if I chicken out?
Only about one in a thousand first timers totally chicken out. But if that happens to be you, so what, you are the customer, you don't have to jump. No, we will not push you. If you want to jump, it's the greatest thrill on this planet. If you don't want to, no problem. You're the Boss.
- Can I bring my friends and family to watch?
Certainly, we welcome anyone who would like to come out with you to share in your experience and cheer you on! Normally, the first jumps start around 2:30-3:00 pm weather permitting.
- What about the weather?
Skydiving is a sport governed very much by the weather. It can cause unexpected delays. We do not jump when it is raining or extremely windy. First Jump students will complete the ground training for their jump regardless of weather conditions. Once you have completed training you can jump anytime during normal days of operation and good weather conditions.
- How long is the class and can I jump the same day?
First Jump classes take about 4-5 hours and you will be able to jump the same day, weather permitting. Make sure you can stay till 6-ish.
- How do I get started?
Call (250)376-1213 or use our contact form to make a reservation. You will talk to a real person most of the time. We are generally available to take your call seven days a week and all day long. At times, you will get voice mail if we are unavailable. Please leave a message and we will do our best to return your call in a timely manner. We limit our class sizes. Ordinarily calling on the Tuesday or Wednesday before the course date is fine.
- Is skydiving really safe?
Yes, and then some. Advances in technology have greatly improved the equipment. Jumping activities are regulated by the Canadian Sport Parachuting Association to ensure you have a safe experience.
- How hard does the parachute open?
The parachute deployment (opening) is not bone-jarring, it feels more like being lifted at the shoulders.
- Are reservations and deposits required?
Yes, we limit our class sizes. Ordinarily calling on the Tuesday or Wednesday before the course date is fine. If you are a group of 8 or more, we require a deposit.
- Will I be scared?
Maybe, maybe not, but some fear is to be expected. You will definitely feel a surge of excitement and anticipation before the jump - this is a normal part of the experience. During the jump itself, you'll probably feel a thrill such as you've never experienced - enjoy it!
- What if the parachute doesn't open?
In the very unlikely event of a main parachute malfunction, the harness container system provided for you includes a reserve (emergency) parachute. These parachutes are routinely inspected and maintained by appropriately rated and licensed personnel. Additionally, all our reserve parachutes are equipped with a reliable and modern Automatic Activation Device. "What if.." situations are covered in depth during the course.
