Skydive DeLand is a tandem skydiving center in central Florida

Skydive DeLand is located in DeLand, Florida, about 35 miles north of Orlando. The facility operates a tandem skydiving program, meaning you jump attached to an experienced instructor rather than jumping solo. The center uses aircraft that climb to jump altitude, and instructors handle the technical parts of the jump while you experience the freefall and parachute descent.

The operation has been running since the 1990s and is based at DeLand Municipal Airport. If you are considering a tandem jump, understanding how the center works, what the experience involves, and what to expect on the day will help you prepare.

Key Takeaways

  • Tandem jumps at Skydive DeLand pair you with a certified instructor who handles all technical decisions during the jump.
  • You will need to meet basic physical requirements, sign a waiver, and arrive several hours before your scheduled jump time for training and gear fitting.
  • The jump itself lasts about 60 seconds of freefall followed by a 5 to 7 minute parachute descent, with the entire experience taking most of a day.
  • Cost varies depending on the package you choose, and many people purchase video or photo add-ons to capture the jump.
  • Weather and aircraft availability determine whether your jump happens on your scheduled date, so the center may reschedule you if conditions are unsafe.

What happens on the day of your jump

You should plan to arrive at the DeLand facility 2 to 3 hours before your scheduled jump time. The center will have you check in, review and sign liability paperwork, and watch a brief training video about body position and what to expect during freefall.

After training, you will be fitted with a jumpsuit, harness, goggles, and helmet. An instructor will walk you through how to position your body during the jump and what signals mean during the freefall portion. The instructor will also explain how the parachute opens and what happens during the descent under canopy.

Once you are geared up and trained, you will board the aircraft with your instructor and other jumpers. The plane climbs to jump altitude, which is typically around 10,000 to 15,000 feet. When the door opens and it is your turn, your instructor will guide you to the exit, and you will jump together.

The freefall and parachute descent

Freefall lasts about 60 seconds. During this time, you and your instructor fall at terminal velocity—roughly 120 miles per hour. Your instructor controls your body position and stability, while you experience the sensation of falling. Many people describe this as the most intense part of the jump.

After 60 seconds, your instructor deploys the parachute. The opening creates a sudden jolt as the canopy fills with air and your descent slows dramatically. From that point, the parachute descent takes 5 to 7 minutes. During this time, you and your instructor float under the canopy, and you may be able to see the landscape below and enjoy a quieter part of the experience.

Your instructor will steer the parachute toward the landing zone, which is typically a grass or sand area near the drop zone. Landing involves a gentle touchdown, and your instructor will guide you through the final steps to get out of the harness safely.

Physical requirements and health considerations

Skydive DeLand has weight and fitness requirements for tandem jumpers. Most centers set a maximum weight limit—often around 220 to 250 pounds, though this can vary—because the instructor needs to be able to control both bodies during freefall and landing. You should contact the center directly to confirm current weight limits.

You must be in reasonably good health. Conditions like severe heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent surgery, or pregnancy typically disqualify you from jumping. The center will ask about your medical history when you book. If you have any chronic health condition, contact them before booking to confirm you can jump safely.

Age requirements vary by state and operator. Florida generally allows jumpers as young as 18, though some centers may have different minimums. There is no upper age limit if you meet the health and fitness requirements.

Cost and what is included

Tandem jump prices at skydiving centers in Florida typically range from $200 to $400 for the basic jump, though prices vary by operator and current market rates. The base package usually includes the jump itself, all gear, training, and the instructor fee.

Many people add video or photo packages to capture the jump. These are typically filmed by a camera flyer—another skydiver who jumps with you and films the experience. Video packages often cost $100 to $200 extra, depending on what you receive (raw footage, edited video, photos, or a combination).

Some centers offer altitude upgrades, which means jumping from a higher altitude for a longer freefall. This costs more than the standard jump. Contact Skydive DeLand directly for current pricing and package options.

Weather and rescheduling

Skydiving requires specific weather conditions. Wind speed, cloud cover, and visibility all affect whether jumping is safe on a given day. If weather is unsafe when you arrive, the center will reschedule you for another day at no additional charge, or you may receive a refund depending on their policy.

Conditions can change quickly, so even if the forecast looks good when you book, the center may cancel on the morning of your jump. This is normal and a safety measure. Most centers ask you to call or check their website the morning of your jump to confirm conditions are acceptable.

Aircraft maintenance and availability can also affect scheduling. If the plane is down for service, the center will reschedule you. Again, this is standard practice and not a reflection of the center's reliability.

What to bring and wear

Wear comfortable, casual clothing—shorts and a t-shirt are fine. You will change into a jumpsuit provided by the center, so your regular clothes will be underneath. Avoid loose jewelry, and do not wear anything that could fall out of a pocket during freefall.

Bring a valid photo ID and your insurance card if you have one. The center will need to see ID before you jump. Bring a small amount of cash or a card to pay for any add-ons like video or photos.

Leave valuables in your car or at home. The center has lockers, but it is safer not to bring expensive items to the drop zone. Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip—you will be walking on the tarmac and landing area.

After your jump

Once you land and get out of the harness, you will be walked back to the facility. Many people feel a rush of adrenaline and emotion after landing. The center typically allows time for you to decompress and take photos with your instructor.

If you purchased video or photos, the center will provide those to you—either on a USB drive, through a read link, or on a DVD, depending on their system. Some centers process these on the same day; others mail them to you later.

You are free to leave once you have completed the landing procedures and collected any media. There is no mandatory cool-down period, though many people choose to sit and process the experience before driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any skydiving experience to do a tandem jump?

No. Tandem jumps are designed for first-time jumpers. Your instructor handles all technical decisions and equipment operation. You only need to follow instructions during training and maintain the body position your instructor teaches you during freefall.

What if I am afraid of heights?

Many people who are afraid of heights have done tandem jumps. The experience is different from standing on a tall building because you are falling, not looking down from a fixed point. That said, if you have severe anxiety about heights, discuss it with the center when you book so they can prepare you mentally during training.

Can I wear glasses or contacts during the jump?

Yes. If you wear contacts, they are usually fine during freefall because your eyes are closed or nearly closed due to wind pressure. Glasses can fall off, so most jumpers remove them and rely on contacts. Ask the center about their specific policy when you book.

How long does the entire experience take?

Plan for 3 to 4 hours from arrival to departure. This includes check-in, training, gear fitting, the flight up, the jump itself, and landing procedures. The actual jump—freefall plus parachute descent—lasts about 10 to 15 minutes.

What happens if I panic during the jump?

Your instructor is trained to handle nervous jumpers. You will be attached to them the entire time, and they control your body position and the parachute. If you feel panicked during freefall, focus on your breathing and the instructions your instructor gave you during training. Once the parachute opens, the descent is calm and quiet, which helps many people settle.