Skydiving FAQs

You've Got Skydiving Questions. We've Got Answers!

When it comes to skydiving, you likely have A LOT of questions. No worries - you've come to the right place!

Our family has been skydiving in Ohio for over 50 years. We understand skydiving, and we understand the questions and concerns that many guests experience when preparing for their first skydive.

We want you to feel comfortable and confident when you arrive for your skydive so we've compiled a list of our guests' most frequently asked questions and provided answers here on our FAQ page.

We invite you to browse the questions below and should you have further questions, please contact us - we'd love to speak with you!

General
First-Time Skydiver Questions
AFF / Static Line Training Questions

General

Where is Skydive Cincinnati Located?: We are located at the Red Steward Airfield in Waynesville, OH, just a short drive from both Cincinnati and Dayton, OH.; ^
Is There Food Available for Purchase at the Dropzone?: We do have basic vending machines for drinks, but we do not have an on-site restaurant. Please feel free to bring food and drink to the drop zone. Please remember, no alcohol can be consumed during jump operations. This is for the safety of all and will be strictly enforced.; ^
Does Skydive Cincinnati Allow Pets at the Dropzone?: Yes, we do allow pets, however they must be leashed and supervised at all times. To ensure no incident, please leave pets that don't play well with others at home.; ^

First-Time Skydiver Questions

The forecast says it's going to rain the day of my jump, should I reschedule?

Skydiving is a highly weather dependant sport, however the forecast is often incorrect so unless we are 100% certain that you will not be able to skydive on that day we do not encourage rescheduling.

When a forecast calls for a certain % of rain, it is forecasting for an entire region (ie: Dayton and surrounding areas, Cincinnati and surrouding areas and so on). It is very probable with a 50% of rain that where we are will not see a single drop all day. It simply means that in a specific large region there is a 50% chance that it will rain somewhere.

Should I Eat before My Skydive?

Yes - please eat normally. It is unlikely you will be sick during your skydive. When it does happen, it's usually to people who have not eaten because they are worried about getting sick. The biggest culprit of being sick is low blood sugar due to the surge of adrenaline during the skydive. Please be sure to eat a normal meal (don't over eat), stay hydrated and do not drink alcohol on the day of your skydive.

What Type of Clothing Should I Wear?

Ideally, nothing too baggy. If jumping during cooler months, we recommend wearing layers as opposed to bulky jackets. Otherwise tee shirts, shorts / jeans are ideal. Ideal footwear are tennis shoes.

Is There a Weight Limit to Skydive? What Is It?

The weight limit to skydive is 225lbs per person. Please contact us with any questions.

How Early Should I Arrive?

Your booking time is your show up time. Kindly show up at the time of your booking.

Can My Family and Friends Watch My Skydive? How Early Should They Arrive?

Absolutely! We have a spectators area outside of our hangar to allow for family and friends to watch.

If driving separately, arrival time of family and friends is dependant on the time of day. Please call ahead for advice on arrival times for spectators.

Should I Tip My Instructor?

Tipping is always appreciated, especially if you feel your instructor did a great job. However, it is not expected.

What Happens If the Weather is Bad on the Day of My Reservation?

If the weather is inclement, we will get you rescheduled and there will not be a loss of your deposit.

Should I Call Ahead If the Weather Is Bad?

Most definitely. We watch the weather a lot and sometimes our forecast may be better than where you live. If in doubt, please contact us at 513-282-3725.

Should I Bring Anything with Me to the Dropzone?

Yes. Be sure to bring a government-issued, photo ID with you to the dropzone. Also, be sure to wear proper footwear. No flip-flops or any shoes that could potentially fall off. Also, no military-type boots. Tennis shoes are ideal. Also, bring food and drink (non-alcoholic) with you.

Can I Wear My GoPro, or Other Camera, During My Jump?

No. The USPA (United States Parachute Association) recommends that anyone with less than 200 jumps is not permitted to jump with a camera. The reasons for this involve both issues of snag hazards and a distraction from the responsibilities needed for each individual participating on a skydive (that includes first-timers). Our priority is safety, so please understand... no GoPro's or wearable cams!

Instead, learn about Skydive Cincinnati's high-quality pictures and video services to capture your skydive.

AFF / Static Line Training Questions

What Training Method Is Better, AFF or Static Line?

The answer to this is based on the needs of the student. Students wishing to skydive on a budget will find static line a much easier way of introducing themselves to the sport. Those wishing to experience free fall right away will enjoy AFF more.

Both programs are an excellent way towards becoming a skydiver.

Do I Have to Do a Tandem Skydive before Enrolling in AFF / Static-Line Training?

No, this is not a requirement. Our "solo" programs are designed for a first time jumper that has no prior experience.

What Happens During the AFF First Jump Course?

The AFF first jump course is a six hour ground class. Within this class, students learn the skills necessary to safely complete their first jump. Topics covered is correct body position, introduction to the equipment, how to deploy a parachute, handling emergency situations, canopy flight and landing. Following the ground school, students will make their first skydive with two AFF instructors and will be talked down via wireless radio from the ground crew.

What Happens During Each Level?

Each level (also known as a category) builds from the jump prior adding different skills towards the A license check dive.

How Often Should I Be Jumping During the Program?

To continue progression through the course, students should plan to make a minimum of one jump every 30 days. Beyond this timeline, students will be required to repeat their last succesfully completed skydive. Further lapses in time beyond 45 days may require additional testing at the discretion of the instructor based on proficiency and prior performance.

What Happens After I Finish the AFF / Static Line Program?

Once completing the AFF / Static line program, students will continue making solo, 'self-supervised' skydives and will work with a USPA Coach to continue with skill progression towards earning an A-license.

What Are the Requirements for Earning an A License?

The minimum requirements for earning an A license is:

The successful completion of an AFF or Static Line progression course
A minimum of 25 jumps
The ability to pack a parachute

Details of how to become licensed can be found here.

How Much Should I Budget When Planning for My A License?

The cost of the training program is not precisely fixed as some candidates may have to repeat levels within their training before advancement. For AFF, plan to budget between $2800 and $3,000. For static line, plan to budget between $2,000 and $2,200. To view the pricing schedules for each of these programs, click here.