FAQ about skydiving, tandem skydiving and tandem parachute jumps

In the following section we've gathered a series of frequently asked questions about skydiving, tandem jumps and the answers that will explain everything you want to know before you jump into this fantastic adventure.

These days skydiving can be interpreted in several ways. For some people, skydiving is exciting recreation and a way to deal with the stress caused by today's lifestyles. Skydiving has helped thousands of people get a new perspective on the world while testing their limits and learning to face their fears. For others, their passion towards skydiving has transformed them into top athletes, honing their skills in numerous national and international competitions. Among skydivers there are true professionals who have found their calling and way of life in the sport. They share knowledge and create the next generation of skydivers, organize skydiving schools and even manufacture parachutes and skydiving equipment.

WHAT IS A TANDEM PARACHUTE JUMP OR TANDEM SKYDIVE?

Tandem skydiving is an extremely popular form of skydiving and one of the safest ways in which somebody can experience all the excitement of jumping from a plane, freefall and parachute flight. Tandem skydiving is, among others, a method of training candidates for skydiving, with the advantage of requiring only a brief training session before jumping.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TANDEM SKYDIVE AND A STANDARD SKYDIVING COURSE?

The biggest difference between a tandem parachute jump and a solo parachute jump is that on a tandem jump, the candidate performs a parachute jump with an experienced tandem instructor that has hundreds and hundreds of parachute jumps. All the most important procedures during the whole process are the responsibility of the tandem instructor, which allows you to experience the full excitement of your first skydive.

DO I NEED TO ATTEND A SKYDIVE COURSE TO PERFORM A TANDEM PARACHUTE JUMP?

No. Shortly before performing your skydive, you will undergo a brief training session on the ground, lasting 15-20 minutes. During this brief training, you will be informed of important rules and principles to keep note of during the flight to altitude and exiting the aircraft, as well as the proper body position during freefall, parachute flight and landing procedure.

WHAT IS THE JUMP ALTITUDE?

Jumps are usually performed at an altitude of between 2,500 and 4,000 meters. The jump altitude depends on the airport, as well as the aircraft used for skydiving. In our organization, we strive to offer all our candidates the most out of their skydive, therefore, we usually organize our skydives at airports where we can jump from 4,000 meters.

HOW LONG DOES THE TANDEM SKYDIVE LAST?

The plane flight to jump altitude lasts 10-25 minutes, during which you'll have a good view of the landscape over which you'll perform your skydive. Time spent in freefall primarily depends on the altitude from which you will jump, and the weight of the tandem pair. Tandem skydiving from 4,000 meters can take up to 60 seconds. Jumping from lower altitude reduces the time spent in freefall, e.g. a jump from 2,500 meter lasts about 20 seconds. After freefall, you still have a flight under an open parachute, which takes about 10 minutes. During canopy flight, you will be allowed to steer the canopy and experience this segment of skydiving.

FROM WHAT TYPE OF AIRCRAFT CAN WE PERFORM A TANDEM JUMP?

The type of aircraft is very different from airport to airport. Tandem parachute jumps can be performed from small, single-engine aircraft such as a Cessna 182 that can take up to five skydivers, as well as from large aircraft, such as a Turbolet L-410, which can take over 20 skydivers. Jumps can also be performed from small helicopters, as well as large, military ones such as a MI-8 (approx. 20 skydivers).

HOW FAST DO WE GO IN FREEFALL AND HOW DOES IT FEEL?

After exiting the aircraft, we accelerate for the first 10-12 seconds until we achieve a constant speed, popularly called “terminal velocity”. Our speed depends on the weight of the tandem pair, and is about 200-250 km/h.

CAN I BREATHE IN FREEFALL?

Yes, you can breathe during freefall regardless of speed. Very rarely, you will hear of tandem passengers experience difficulty breathing during freefall. If a problem with breathing occurs, this is usually associated with the anxiety that can occur while skydiving with candidates or independent parachutists who are new to the sport. When put in a situation where they feel frightened, panicked and nervous, some people have a habit to stop breathing, and unfortunately forget to breathe until they start to run out of breath. For them, a tandem parachute jump is an experience they literally find breathtaking. The secret is just to breathe normally on board the aircraft and throughout the jump, the same as you do here, on solid ground. Your tandem instructor will help you remember to breathe while flying in the airplane.

AT WHAT ALTITUDE DO WE OPEN THE PARACHUTE?

Minimum opening altitude for the parachute when performing tandem skydives is 1,300 meters above the ground.

WHAT DOES THE PARACHUTE OPENING LOOK LIKE?

Planning the parachute opening begins while packing the parachute so it opens slowly, eliminating strong jerks. The feeling of an opening parachute can be compared to a car braking strongly.

HOW LONG DOES THE FLIGHT UNDER THE PARACHUTE AFTER OPENING LAST?

After the parachute is opened, the parachute flight lasts 5-15 minutes. Flight with maneuvers such as turning and exciting spirals increases the speed of the parachute and reduces the time it takes to land.

WHAT DOES LANDING UNDER A PARACHUTE LOOK LIKE?

Landing with a tandem parachute can be compared to landing an airplane. Tandem parachutes look like a wing by design, and are able to flare, allowing skydivers to land as softly as a bird. During the short briefing before the tandem jump, you will learn the landing technique.

WHAT IF I'M AFRAID OF HEIGHTS?

There is a good chance that you don't actually have a fear of heights, even if you think you do. When talking about a fear of heights, most people are actually talking about a completely different type of fear, and that is the fear of falling. A fear of falling is natural and all people have it, including experienced skydivers, since it is also one of the human body's natural defense mechanisms. Since during freefall you do not have a feeling of falling, but rather a feeling of lying down on air, you will find that a tandem skydive is exciting and intense, but not frightening.

CAN I BLACKOUT DURING A TANDEM SKYDIVE?

The possibility of blacking out during a tandem parachute jump is astronomically small. It is almost impossible to lose consciousness while you're full of adrenaline and your heart is beating fast. Before jumping, it is recommended to consume a lighter meal in order to keep your blood sugar level constant, and keep your body hydrated.

CAN I CANCEL THE JUMP AFTER THE PLANE TAKES OFF?

Our tandem instructors are top professionals who will fully prepare you before entering the plane, ensuring you have no doubts and fears, but it is important to know that at any time you can cancel the jump if you truly decide to. In case you cancel the jump, we can't guarantee a refund.

WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT ALLOWED FOR TANDEM PASSENGERS?

The maximum weight for a tandem passenger is not defined. Candidates weighing more than 100 kg should consult us to make sure a tandem jump will be possible. There is a difference between 100 kg candidates that are athletic, and candidates who are not as physically active.

WHAT ARE THE MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM AGES FOR PERFORMING A TANDEM SKYDIVE?

Under Croatian law, a person intending to perform a tandem parachute jump must be no less than 14 years old. All candidates under 18 years old must have the written consent of a parent or guardian before performing their jumps. The maximum age is not defined, and jumps can be made by anyone feeling capable of such an activity.

WHERE WILL WE DO IT?

Our advantage is that we offer tandem skydives around Croatia and in neighboring countries. We often organize jumps in Kaposvar (Hungary) because of the very good conditions that our neighbors offer. As we have previously noted, the location of tandem parachute jumps directly affects the maximum altitude of the tandem jump. Here are some of the places where we organize jumps: CRO (Zagreb, Varazdin, Rovinj, Pula, Rijeka, Osijek, Cakovec, Zadar, Hvar, Sinj), SLO (Ptuj, Slovenia Gradec, Kranj, Krka, Novo Mesto), HU (Kaposvar, Balaton Kility).

DOES THE TANDEM INSTRUCTOR HAVE A SPECIAL LICENSE OR CERTIFICATE TO PERFORM TANDEM PARACHUTE JUMPS?

Yes, all of our tandem instructors have a tandem license and certificate. They are thoroughly trained to perform tandem skydive jumps. Some of them have several different licenses and are active members of the Croatian National Parachute Team, an indicator of our professionalism and expertise.

Preparing myself to do a tandem skydive

WHAT SHOULD I BRING FOR A TANDEM PARACHUTE JUMP?

Not that much. You should bring comfortable shoes for performing a tandem jump. Jumping in flip-flops, sandals, high heels and similar open footwear is not allowed. Also, wear comfortable clothing (we recommend sportswear such as a tracksuit). Be sure to bring your ID or passport.

CAN I WEAR GLASSES OR CONTACT LENSES?

For the parachute jump we provide goggles under which you can wear your prescription glasses or contact lenses.

SHOULD I EAT BEFORE JUMPING?

A lighter meal is definitely recommended. As with any other sport requiring physical activity, you should avoid eating a heavy meal before performing a tandem parachute jump.

ALCOHOL AND DRUGS?

As you could guess, it is strictly forbidden to be under the influence of alcohol and narcotics while performing parachute jumps, and it's prohibited to consume alcohol and narcotics at least 12 hours before performing a tandem parachute jump.

CAN I BRING FRIENDS OR FAMILY?

Of course! It is your special day, and you can take as many friends or family members as you would like. It is important that your friends and family members respect the rules of conduct at the airport, which are described below.

CAN MY FRIENDS OR FAMILY GO ON THE PLANE, EVEN IF THEY ARE NOT JUMPING?

It depends on the type of aircraft being used to perform the tandem parachute jump. If you would like to take your friends or family on the flight by plane, certainly tell us, and we will try to arrange it.

Weather conditions and skydiving

WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD ON THE DAY OF THE TANDEM PARACHUTE JUMP?

If the weather is so bad that it presents a hazardous situation, the tandem jump will be made on another date. The safety of tandem passengers is our priority while performing tandem parachute jumps.

CAN WE JUMP IF IT IS CLOUDLY?

Of course! Watching clouds below you in freefall is an unforgettable experience. When we talk about clouds, we don't mean the kind we see before storms and rain.

IS IT COLD DURING SKYDIVING?

During the airplane flight you will definitely not be cold. After the door opens at jump altitude, you will feel a rush of cold air, but the excitement will already be at such a high level that you will not be able to think about the cold, especially after exiting the aircraft and experiencing freefall.

Health and safety in tandem skydiving

HOW SAFE IS A TANDEM PARACHUTE JUMP?

Nowadays, a tandem skydive jump is the safest way to experience all the excitement that skydiving has to offer. To become a tandem skydiving instructor, the instructor candidate must have years of experience and pass extensive training, which ensures your safety during a tandem jump. After more than 50 years of development, parachutes and skydiving equipment have reached an extraordinarily high level of durability and safety. Jumping out of a plane is safer than ever.

DO I NEED A MEDICAL EXAM BEFORE TANDEM SKYDIVING?

No, it is not necessary to pass a medical examination before performing a tandem skydive. However, please consult us if you have or have had a spinal injury, fracture, epilepsy etc.

WHAT IF THE PARACHUTE DOESN'T OPEN?

A situation in which the parachute does not open is called a “parachute malfunction”. Parachute malfunctions are very rare, but in case we have one, every tandem parachute contains a reserve parachute. If a parachute malfunctions occurs, the tandem instructor will cutaway the main parachute and open the reserve parachute.

HOW SAFE IS THE TANDEM PARACHUTE AND EQUIPMENT?

Tandem parachutes are manufactured according to rigorous standards and are extensively tested before use. Maintenance and packing of parachutes is performed by specially equipped and licensed people. Reserve parachute must be legally repacked and checked once a year, regardless of whether they have been opened or not. The whole parachute system must undergo an annual inspection.

HOW ARE PASSENGERS ATTACHED TO THE TANDEM INSTRUCTOR?

On a tandem parachute jump, the passenger carries a four-point harness system (two shoulder buckles and two side buckles) which is firmly attached to the tandem instructor. Before performing a tandem jump, the tandem instructor ensures that the entire system is properly set, and that you feel safe and and comfortable in it.

FEAR OF HEIGHTS

Most often, a fear of heights (acrophobia) has to do with the perception of objects standing or moving relatively with another object. At 4,000 meters, the ground is far away, and you cannot say that you are above any one object. The view is completely different from the one you have from a high balcony, where you can see things below and perceive your distance to them. Above 700 meters, the surface of the Earth becomes too distant for problems with acrophobia to arrise.

Transportation and time

DO YOU ORGANIZE TRANSPORT TO THE DROPZONE (PLACE FOR SKYDIVING ACTIVITIES)?

We offer the option of transportation to the place the tandem jump is performed, included in the price of the tandem jump, but it refers only to candidates participating in the jump. If you need transportation for friends or family members, you can contact us to check our transport capacities, or arrange transportation with your own vehicle.

HOW MUCH TIME BEFORE MAKING A TANDEM SKYDIVE DO I NEED TO BE AT THE AIRPORT?

It is necessary to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the tandem jump in order to fill out the paperwork and pass a short training session. If you use our transport to the airport, you can count on departure in the morning and return during the early evening. Since this will be a completely new experience for you, there will be no place for boredom. You'll be able to talk with other skydivers, find out how the skydiving world functions and spend a day outdoors in the fresh air. Some airports positioned along the sea will even give you the opportunity to go for a swim at a nearby beach.

Tandem skydiving video

CAN WE TAKE A VIDEO OF MY TANDEM SKYDIVE?

Sure! You will no doubt want to share this extraordinary event with friends, family and perhaps publish it on Youtube or social media. We offer two options: handi-cam footage, and a separate cameraman. Hand-cam video is video taken from the hand of your tandem instructor. If you want to have the best shots, we recommend the option of an addition air cameraman. The option of an additional air cameraman should be noted during booking.

VIDEO OPTION – CHARGES

The option of an additional cameraman costs an extra 400-500 kn (50-65 euro), but for that amount you'll get the best quality. The handi-cam option is included in the price of the “tandem skydive + video” option.

WHAT KIND OF CAMERAS ARE USED FOR VIDEOING THE TANDEM JUMP?

We use very high quality cameras, such as the GoPro Hero Black 9 that are capable of producing high-quality HD video. After the jump you'll receive HD video of your tandem training, flight, freefall and parachute landing. The video of your jump will be delivered to your address, or can be downloaded from our website. From ground training to landing, your video will contain irreplaceable footage of an unforgettable experience.

CAN I BRING MY OWN CAMERA OR MOBILE PHONE ON MY TANDEM PARACHUTE JUMP?

Unfortunately, no. It is not allowed to bring your own devices onto the aircraft for safety reasons, potential losses, etc. However, you are certainly allowed to take photos and video before and after your jump.

Price and booking a tandem skydive

WHAT IS THE PRICE OF A TANDEM SKYDIVE?

The price of a tandem skydive depends on several factors including jump altitude, location of jumps, candidate weight, various promotions, video options etc. To view our current prices it is best to check our tandem service price list.

HOW CAN I BOOK A TANDEM SKYDIVE?

Booking options:

• By telephone at our phone numbers
• Online, sending an application or inquiry via web form, after which we will, if necessary, contact you for further details
• Sending an application or inquiry by e-mail

ARE THERE GROUP DISCOUNTS?

We offer group discounts. Please contact us for more information, or check current discounts and promotions on our price list.

DO YOU SELL GIFT VOUCHERS FOR TANDEM SKYDIVING?

If you decide do give someone a tandem skydive jump as a gift, we offer gift vouchers that you can purchase, providing someone one of the best adventures in life. A tandem skydive jump is an outstanding gift for any birthday, wedding, anniversary, or simply as a token of appreciation.

Behavior at the airport

• Do not approach aircraft without authorized personnel.
• No smoking and drinking of alcohol near parachute equipment and aircraft. We try to give skydiving a positive image, and a spectator can easily mistake another spectator for a skydiver.
• At airports, you can see a lot of skydiving equipment. Do not touch other people's equipment without asking the owner of the equipment for permission.
• Be careful not to step on other people's equipment.
• If you want to take pictures of other skydivers, or your friends who have performed a tandem jump, be sure to ask where you may walk. Many runways are grass covered, and you do not want to find yourself in front of the aircraft on landing or takeoff.
• Follow instructions given by authorized personnel

Other questions

CAN I CONTINUE WITH A SKYDIVING COURSE AFTER MY TANDEM SKYDIVE?

Yes you can. There is a good chance that you will want to take a skydiving course after your tandem jump. Tandem skydiving serves as an excellent introduction to skydiving, and is the fastest way to experience skydiving and freefall.

WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS IF I WANT TO CONTINUE WITH SKYDIVING INDEPENDENTLY?

Tandem Experti is a project launched by several high quality skydiving clubs with top skydiving instructors. Depending on your wishes, place of residence and so on, we will refer you to one of them for your skydiving course, where you will learn everything you need to become an independent skydiver.