The Ohio State University Skydiving Class

PAES 139.14
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FAQs
 
Below are answers to some common questions that students have about our class.   
 
Q: Ho do I pay for the class?
A: We accept either cash or check for your deposit at the time of registration.  Please make checks payable to "Collegiate Air Sports." When you make the rest of your payment at the second class, only cash or credit card will be accepted. 
 
 
Q: Do I really get credit for jumping out of a plane?
A: Yes!  This class is offered by the School of Physical Activity and Educational Services (PAES) for 1 credit hour.  You do NOT have to jump in order to pass the class.
 
 
Q: When does the class meet?
A: This class meets for four 3-hour evening sessions prior to our jump, and one additional shorter class after the jump.  During the first three classes you will receive informamtion that is typically presented in a First-Jump Course (FJC), including instruction in proper body position, equipment, canopy control, emergency procedures, skydiving history, and dive flow.  The post-jump class will introduce you to various skydiving disciplines and competition skydiving. 
 

Summer and Fall 2010 class dates are posted on our homepage.

 
Q: Where will we jump?
A: We will jump at Start Skydiving in Middletown, OH.
 
 
Q: Can I drive to the dropzone myself?
A: No - you MUST take class transportation to and from the dropzone. There are no exceptions to this rule, so please do not ask. 
 
 
Q: Can my family come to watch me?
A: Of course!  Your family is welcome to meet you at the dropzone (DZ).  Please note that all landing areas are not visible from the public area of the airport, so it may not be possible for everyone in you family to view your landing up close. We will also not be able to provide your family with an exact jump time, so they may have to sit around for awhile.
 
 
Q: How long will we be at the dropzone on our jumpdate?
A: We will be leaving OSU at 5:15 am. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to specify a return time because that will be very much dependant on the weather and other factors affecting how quickly we will get everyone up and down. No jumps will take place after sunset.
 
 
Q: What is the difference between AFF and tandem?
A: Please see our additional page devoted to this topic. Please Note: As of Autumn Quarter 2010, the Introduction to Skydiving class will no longer be offerring Tandem skydiving as a jump option. All students will be fully trained to complete an AFF jump. However, you do not have to jump to pass the class, and your fee will be reduced if you choose not to jump. Students will still have the option of either tandem or AFF during Summer 2010.
 
 
Q: Is there a weight limit?
A: Yes. The maximum weight for which we can allow participation in an AFF jump is 255 lbs. If you are between 235 and 255 you ability to jump safely will depend on your body shape and weight distribution. The maximum weight our Tandem gear can accomodate is 235 lbs. Students that weigh more than 235 will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis based on body shape and weight distribution; however, an additional gear fee may apply. Please note: You will be asked for your weight at the time of registration. Students who fail to accurately report their weight will not be eligible for a deposit refund if their weight is later found to exceeds the reported value and they wish to withdraw frm the class.
 
 
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Current prices for the Summer and Fall 2010 classes are $215 for tandem and $295 for AFF.  These prices have not been finalized but will be by February registration. Payment is due at the second class meeting.  Digital video and pictures shot by videographer who jumps with you are available for an additional cost (yet to be determined, but usually around $70). Details about these options will be discussed in class. 
 
 
Q: What is the weather (high winds or rain) prevents us from jumping?
A: If we are unable to jump due to weather, you will be issued a "raincheck" for your jump. Your jump will remain on your account at the dropzone so that you use it at a later time. Tandems have until the end of the year to use their jump. AFF students must make their jump within 30 days of their first jump course. If an AFF student can not complete their jump within thirty days the USPA requires that receive recurrency training. Whether or not there is an additional charge (and how much it is) will depend on when you choose to complete your recurrency and is at the discretion of the dropzone. All jump purchases are nonrefundable, and requests for exceptions to this must be directed to Start Skydiving and not to Ohio State and/or Collegiate Air Sports.