Coaches, instructors and drop zone owners are always trying to find ways to improve student training and save time during busy days at the drop zone. USPA provides a very inexpensive tool that accomplishes both of those things: the flight planner. more »

The skydiving community has improved its safety record and reduced its number of fatalities over the past decade—mostly due to improved training and better equipment—but there is no such thing as a risk-free jump. Human nature being what it is, many people choose to bury their heads in the sand and pretend that they will never be injured. But given the nature of the sport, it makes sense for skydivers to prepare—to have plans in place that will protect themselves and their loved ones—in case they are seriously injured or even killed. more »

It may seem like common sense to say that a properly fitted tandem student harness is required for every tandem skydive. Unfortunately, human nature being what it is, instructors get lazy, forgetful or both, and many tandem students end up with an unpleasant canopy ride or even an injury upon landing. Small errors in harness adjustment can cause big problems for the student. more »

You’ve meticulously packed your main; you’ve set your automatic activation device; you’ve reviewed your emergency procedures and landing pattern; you’ve done a final pin check in the plane; and you feel confident all will go well. You know that a skydiving accident could kill you in an instant... but so can a heart attack. Are you just as meticulous about your health? more »