Parachute Jumping: Full of sensations

Are you ready to take the plunge? Parachuting is always a unique and truly intense experience. You have to experience it at least once to enjoy the joys of this extreme sport. Here's everything you need to know about parachute jumping.

The different types of jumps

Before starting, it is interesting to make a small reminder of all the existing types of jumps: tandem, initiation, PAC....

The tandem jump

The first is the most common: the tandem jump. This is the ultimate discovery jump. If you choose this jump, you will jump with a monitor attached to you. It manages the entire process of the jump, you simply have to respect the safety instructions announced during the initial briefing. In addition, the tandem jump allows you to fully enjoy the thrill of falling at 200 kilometres per hour, while allowing you to admire the scenery. However, this jump does not allow you to learn to jump alone, but it is interesting to start with the tandem jump to relieve the stress of the very first jump!

The initiation jump

This is the very first jump in CAP progression (Accompanied Progression in Fall). It is a method of jumping that teaches you to jump alone in a parachute. You are then accompanied by two instructors for this first jump. Thereafter, only one instructor will accompany you. The initiation jump does not allow you to really enjoy the landscape, as you will have to focus on the actions to be performed during the jump. Before performing this jump, you will need to undergo several hours of training, teaching you all the basics and safety rules of parachute jumping.

PAC training

To jump alone, CAP training is essential. It begins with the initiation jump and continues with five or six other jumps. With this training, you will learn to open your parachute at 1,500 meters and land using radio guidance. For the first jump, you will need to complete the theoretical training before going into practice. You will then be accompanied in flight by two instructors, then by only one.

The progress of a jump

Before jumping, the centre will conduct a briefing. It usually lasts half an hour for the tandem jump. The instructor will then explain how the jump and landing will take place. He will deliver the safety instructions to you before allowing you to board the plane for the jump. As a general rule, the first jump is made in tandem or "two-seater", with an instructor attached to you. It controls your descent, your trajectory and the opening of the parachute. It also manages the landing.

Then, the flight takes between 15 and 25 minutes depending on the aircraft and the height of the jump, which is most often 4,000 meters. This gives you time to admire the scenery and prepare for the parachute jump that awaits you. Once you reach the desired altitude, you have to jump! It is estimated that the free fall lasts between thirty seconds and one minute. The instructor then opens the parachute and usually suggests that you take control of it for a few moments. He then manages the landing by reminding you of the safety instructions.

If you choose CAP training, you will receive eight hours of training before you can make your first jump. Indeed, during this one, you will be responsible for your actions and nothing should be left to chance! During the jumps, one or more instructors will accompany you to ensure your safety and guide you in case of problems.

Why do you need a parachute jump?

There are different reasons why we jump by parachute. The most common reason is the desire to discover this experience rich in thrills. The view you can have from a parachute is unique and truly magnificent, no matter where you are: at the beach, on the mountain, above the cities... This is what makes each jump unique.

Parachute jumping is a physical activity that frees you from stress and clears your head. For many people, parachuting is a real challenge: taking it up helps them to have self-confidence and to exceed their limits. Confronting your fears can help you move forward in life and break down mental barriers. Of course, the first parachute jump always seems scary. Launching into the void from an aircraft is a unique experience that can impress. But know that even the most fearful of us only want to land when we do, it's to get back on the plane!

Price of a parachute jump

On average, the price of a tandem parachute jump varies between 230 and 300 euros, depending on the location. Rates may vary depending on the day of the week and the region. This price includes the rental of the equipment and the place on the plane. In the context of a CAP initiation jump, it is sometimes necessary to count an additional hundred euros. For this price, you can jump alone the first time. Thereafter, the price of the jumps you make will be much lower.

Some centres offer CAP internships, which can cost around €1,300. These courses include several supervised and accompanied jumps. Then, the PAC training allows you to obtain a diploma and a licence-insurance which are issued by the federation of the country in which you are doing it.

For your jump, the centre will certainly offer you to rent equipment to make a video or a photo. To do this, you have to pay between 80 and 120 euros in addition to the price of the jump. As a general rule, this option is included in the PAC internship, but it depends on the centres.

Where to do a parachute jump?

You can do a parachute jump at the specialized centres. They can be found everywhere in France (about forty centres in France) as well as abroad. If you wish, you can jump by parachute near you, or during your holidays! Our service providers offer you the opportunity to do a parachute jump in the centre of your choice. So, which region would you choose for parachuting?

The best time to jump

Technically, it is possible to jump by parachute in any season. But for a first successful experience, it is better to wait until the summer season to get started. The ideal is to jump in the best possible weather conditions, and therefore in spring and summer. Instructors must reprogram jumps in case of rain and bad weather, as well as if the winds are strong.

Parachute jumps are always more enjoyable in good weather, which is why many centres close between November and March. To take off, the aircraft must take advantage of favourable conditions. Sometimes it takes a while before you can take off. If you can, allow half a day for your parachute jump.

The conditions for making a jump

The age required to make a jump may vary depending on the country. However, as a general rule, you must be at least 15 years old for a tandem jump. Parental consent is required in this case. Some centres may sometimes agree to blow up 12-year-old children in tandem with a parent present. The minimum jumping template is 40 kilograms. In tandem, however, the weight should not exceed 90 to 95 kilograms. If the monitor is light, the centre can accept clients weighing more than 100 kilograms, but this is exceptional.

To make a jump, it is essential to be in good health. Parachute jumps are not recommended for people with heart problems, back pain or ENT problems related to decompression. Parachute jumping is not recommended for pregnant women. Before the big jump, do not hesitate to ask your doctor for his opinion and ask him for a certificate that you can do this activity. In France, to jump, you must present a medical certificate less than six months old. Be aware that parachute jumping should be avoided if you have been scuba diving the day before or if you have consumed alcohol 12 hours before.

Safety and supervision

Whatever parachute jump you choose to do, one or more instructors are present to ensure your safety. In tandem, the instructor who accompanies you manages the jump from A to Z, and ensures your safety throughout the experience. In the initiation jump, two instructors will accompany you. Before jumping, you receive an eight-hour training course during which you will be introduced to all the instructions and safety measures related to your jump. The same applies to the first jump in CAP training. For this jump, two instructors will accompany you. Then, only one monitor jumps with you. In any case, before jumping, the instructors always deliver all the safety instructions to you. It is essential to respect them in order to live a safe, serene and thrilling experience.

Jumping equipment

The equipment needed to jump is usually included in the price of the jump. It then includes the main parachute, reserve parachute, altimeter, harness, suit, helmet and glasses. The parachute is the essential element of this sport, and it consists of a harness, a main sail and a reserve sail. It also includes a security system.

The altimeter is an instrument that allows you to know the height at which you are standing. It is provided during initiation and PAC training jumps, but it is useless to you in the context of a tandem jump. The centre also provides glasses. In a free-fall descent at 200 kilometres per hour, they are essential if you want to open your eyes! A helmet is not necessary for the tandem jump, but it is mandatory for the initiation jump and PAC training jumps. The centre generally provides the suit, which also has handles that allow paratroopers to grasp themselves in flight. It is optional in tandem, but essential for the CAP and the initiation jump.

As a customer, you do not need to rent or buy this equipment before going to the centre. You can also come in the outfit of your choice. Choose a comfortable and warm outfit, as temperatures can be very cold at high altitudes. Of course, it all depends on where you choose to do your jump. In addition, centres must often prohibit uppers with laces. Indeed, it is necessary to be able to remove them in flight if necessary.

What to remember

Parachuting is a great experience to experience at least once in your life. To do so with complete confidence, make sure you choose the right centre to accompany you on this adventure. Respect the instructors' instructions and above all: enjoy these magical moments.