M

Hi there 👋

Drop us a message & we will get back to you shortly.

Start Skydiving offers a friendly hometown drop-zone atmosphere and welcomes new and experienced skydivers. We are one the top five largest and fastest growing Drop-Zones in the world. Our location at the Middletown Regional Airport in Middletown, Ohio features a 1.15 mile long runway that can support extra-large aircraft for special events, more than 23,000+ sq ft of hangar space, and over 600+ acres of obstacle-free, soft, cut sod to land on.

We own two Cessna Caravans, one long and one short, as well as a fast Cessna 206 for clear-and-pulls, to suit all of your jumping needs. We also occasionally have specialty aircraft flying on certain days during the summer. These specialty aircraft have included fast twin turbines such as a Super King Air, a Beech 99, and a Super Twin Otter, as well as large tailgates such as a Skyvan, a Sherpa, a Casa, and a Caribou. Don’t forget the biplanes, helicopters, and hot air balloons!

We also provide free load organizing and free world-class coaching in all disciplines from members of Team FastraxTM, America’s world-renown professional skydiving team. All of this makes Start Skydiving a first-class skydiving destination for new and experienced skydivers alike.

Licensed Skydiver Pricing

2023 USPA Licensed Skydiver Lift Ticket Rates

Lift tickets from hop-n-pop up to 13,000 feet AGL

  • If you manifest yourself online: $28 per slot weekdays/$31 per slot weekends (Sat/Sun)
  • If you manifest through the front desk: $30 per slot weekdays/$33 per slot weekends (Sat/Sun)

2023 Jump Packages

2023 Gear Rental

  • $40 per jump (plus lift ticket)

Note:  All gear rental is charged on a jump-by-jump basis. The jumper may only manifest through the front desk and the rented parachute must be packed by our packing staff.  Back-to-back manifesting is not permitted when using rental gear.

 

 

Drop Zone Rules & Regulations

 

 

We are a USPA Group Drop Zone and Skydiving Center, the majority of our skydiving rules and regulations are from the USPA BSR’s.  All USPA and FAA rules, regulations, requirements, and recommendations must be followed at Start Skydiving!  Below are some rules and regulations that apply directly to Start Skydiving an must be strictly adhered to.

 

What type of payment do we accept?

We accept cash, traveler’s checks, and major credit cards, to include contact-less pay (like Apple Pay). All financial business is done at manifest. We do not charge a fee for credit card usage at Start Skydiving and also have an ATM onsite.

 

What are the jumping requirements?

 Start Skydiving is a group member of the USPA. As such, please be prepared to show: your current USPA membership and license, your signed logbook to prove your jump currency, and, if you have your own rig, its reserve packing data card and seal will be required to be verified when you first check-in.

 

How does manifest work?

Manifest is located in the 1711 Run Way building.  We utilize Burble at Start Skydiving and ask that experienced skydivers self-manifest. You can place funds on your account at manifest or add money to your account via the BurbleMe app. We do not carry credit at Start Skydiving. Manifest for loads only when you are ready to jump. Missed loads will not be refunded! Please be ready at the loading area by your five-minute call. We are happy to hold credit cards for the day and will run your card on file with us as soon as 15 minutes after the last load lands if you have not settled up at the end of the day.

How do I load an aircraft?

Start Skydiving has two loading areas designated Loading Area 1 and Loading Area 2.  Be in the boarding area at the five-minute call. Board the aircraft in the opposite order of exit. You are not permitted to cross the yellow line unless you have completed a waiver, are manifested for the next load, and are fully geared up. Any other personnel must be accompanied by authorized Start Skydiving staff. No one is permitted beyond the red line until each of the following requirements are all met:

  • The aircraft has come to a complete stop.
  • Loading ladders/steps are properly positioned.
  • The aircraft pilot or authorized loader has instructed you to board the aircraft.

What are the requirements for takeoff?

YOUR RIG MUST BE ON and ready to jump with your leg straps and chest strap correctly threaded prior to boarding. Helmets and seat belts must be worn while in the aircraft until 1,000 feet AGL. If you choose not to wear your helmet, you must have it secured to your chest strap or seat belt. The aircraft door must be closed during takeoff and while below 1,000 feet.

What about spotting?

Normally, the pilot spots the plane accurately and no corrections are needed. However, you must open the door on the red light and verify that the spot is correct and that the area is clear of aircraft and clouds below before jumping. You must have the pilot’s approval to open our aircraft door without a red light. If the spot is not correct, or if there are clouds or air-traffic on jump-run, then you are responsible for informing the pilot and you must remain inside the aircraft until you are certain that the area is clear to exit. When the green light comes on, the pilot has configured the aircraft to be safely exited. It does not mean you are clear below or that you are over the correct spot. Every jumper is responsible for his or her own safety. This includes checking your spot! We are not legally permitted to perform skydives through clouds. Do not exit the aircraft unless you know for certain that you will not freefall through a cloud. We will do a go-around and fly another jump-run if you cannot exit over the correct spot due to clouds, aircraft, or jumpers. All groups should remain forward in the aircraft until it is their turn to exit. If the green light turns off, everyone must stay in the aircraft and wait for another jump run.

What are the exit orders?

  1. Low altitude clear-and-pull passes (If there are multiple jumpers on the same low pass, exit in order of heaviest to lightest wing-loading.)
  2. Sky-surfers will receive their own pass to ensure that they are directly over the DZ.
  3. Belly-flyer formation groups, including students on coach jumps (Sort from largest to smallest. Groups of the same size are then sorted from lowest to highest planned deployment altitude. If groups of the same size and deployment altitude, then sort by exit weight and canopy size from least to greatest.)
  4. “Traditional” belly trackers (not angle flyers or tracking suit jumpers)
  5. Free-flyer groups (Sort from largest to smallest. Groups of the same size are then sorted from lowest to highest planned deployment altitude. If groups of the same size and deployment altitude, then sort by exit weight and canopy size from least to greatest.)
  6. Angle flyers (or free-flying trackers)
  7. AFFs (in the following order: Cat A, B, C-1, C-2, D, E. If multiple AFFs in the same category, then sort by student exit weight and canopy size from least to greatest.)
  8. Tandems (Tandems with videographers first, then tandems without. These are then sorted by exit weight and canopy size from least to greatest.)
  9. Tracking suit jumpers
  10. Wing-suiters
  11. CRW (High Pull)

Only one single group of either trackers, angle flyers, or wing-suiters is permitted per load. This single group must fly a pattern with the first leg perpendicular to jump run. The leader of this group must be an experienced jumper who is familiar with the DZ and the airspace. This leader must fly with belly facing to earth. If the lead flyer will be back-flying, another experienced jumper must pair with the leader and fly belly to earth over the leader to help maintain directional control.

Exit Separation:

There is an exit separation chart posted by the jump door of each of our aircraft. This chart shows the minimum amount of time that must be given between solo jumpers based on the ground speed of the aircraft during jump run. This time begins from the moment the previous group has left the plane. This includes the time it takes to move to the door, climb out, and setup in the door. All groups must remain forward in the aircraft (toward the cockpit) until the previous group has exited. More time must be allowed between exits before large groups and after free-fly groups.

If the ground speed is not able to be obtained, please use the following general rule of thumb. With reported upper winds of 0-10 knots, please allow between 5-7 seconds between exits (take into account the time it takes to climb out of the aircraft). For winds of 20 knots or higher, please use the following formula: Take the upper headwind speed and divide it by half (round up for odd numbers), this will give you the recommended amount of time between exits!

Upper headwind speed

 0-10 knots – 5-7 seconds between group exits

15-20 knots – 8-10 seconds between group exits

21-30 knots – 11-15 seconds between group exits

31-40 knots – 16-20 seconds between group exits

41-50 knots – 21-25 seconds between group exits

Can I wear my own camera on my skydive?

Start Skydiving requires a minimum of a USPA C-license in order to jump with a camera of any type. No exceptions.

What are the landing rules?

Check out the aerial map of the landing areas below or posted around DZ. There are three primary landing areas and a dozen large outs. Avoid crossing the runway below 1,000 feet and avoid approaching the ends of the runway below 2,000 feet. Also, avoid landing on any runways (including the grass strip), taxiways, or tarmac. Planned landings outside of the designated areas are prohibited.

 What is the landing pattern?

 The landing pattern for the B-, C-, and D-license landing areas on the southeast side of the runway is based on the current landing direction, this landing direction is posted by the entrance of our loading areas. If the set landing direction is to the southwest with the hangars on the left-hand side, then a left-handed landing pattern is to be performed. If the set landing direction is to the northeast with the hangars on the right-hand side, then a right-handed landing pattern is to be performed. In the large landing area on the northwest side of the runway, there is no set landing pattern or direction. However, all jumpers must land into the wind and the first jumper down sets the pattern. If there is no wind, then all landing areas default to a southwest landing direction with the hangars on the left-hand side. Only 90-degree turns are permitted to be performed in all landing areas. Any turns greater than 90 degrees must be cleared by the S&TA first before being permitted to be performed.

TANDEM & D-LICENSE LANDING AREA – is located directly in front and to the right of our hanger. You must have a D-license to land in this area. First person down sets the pattern so follow the windsock if you are first to land. Only 90-degree turns are permitted in this area. Any turns greater than 90 degrees must be cleared by the S&TA first before being permitted to be performed. Tandems have the right of way, so please continuously watch out for other canopy traffic. If there is no wind, then default to a southwest landing direction with the hangars on the left-hand side while flying a left-handed landing pattern.

B- & C-LICENSE LANDING AREA – is located in between the runway and the taxiway northeast of the tandem & D-license landing area. Only 90-degree turns are permitted in this area. Any turns greater than 90 degrees must be cleared by the S&TA first before being permitted to be performed. Tandems have the right of way, so please continuously watch out for other canopy traffic. If there is no wind, then default to a southwest landing direction with the hangars on the left-hand side while flying a left-handed landing pattern.

STUDENT, A, B, C, & D-LICENSE LANDING AREA – is located in the massive field on the northwest side of the runway. Use the windsock located in the middle of the landing area to determine landing direction. The first person down sets the pattern. Students have the right of way, so please continuously watch out for other canopy traffic. If there is no wind, then default to a southwest landing direction with the hangars on the left-hand side while flying a right-handed landing pattern.

How do I cross the runways and taxiways if I land in the A-license and student landing area?

We try our best to pick up all jumpers that land in the A-license and student landing area with our recovery vehicle, as it is the preferred method of crossing. However, in the event that our recovery vehicle is not on its way within one minute after all jumpers have landed, you may cross using the following procedures:

  1. Before crossing a runway or taxiway on foot, stop 50 feet away and wait for all jumpers that need to cross. While waiting, you must look, as well as listen, both ways multiple times, on the ground and in the air for incoming aircraft.
  2. If an aircraft is about to takeoff, land, or taxi by, back away (200 feet from the runway and 50 feet from the taxiway) and kneel on the ground while maintaining eye contact with the aircraft until it has cleared the runway or taxied by. This signals to the pilot that the jumper sees the aircraft and is not going to proceed with crossing the runway in front of the aircraft.
  3. When crossing a runway or taxiway on foot, all jumpers must cross quickly together in a group at the same time while staying vigilant and watching for incoming aircraft in the air and on the ground. This helps reduce the number of crossings and the amount of time spent on the runways and taxiways. It also makes jumpers more noticeable to aircraft.

What is the process for using the parachute recovery vehicle?

Only authorized Start Skydiving staff are permitted to drive the recovery vehicle to pick-up skydivers. If you are driving the parachute covery vehicle, you must adhere to the following procedures:

  1. Buckle your seatbelt. Turn on the yellow strobe lights. Roll down the windows & turn off music.
  2. Proceed to the ramp while staying on the taxiway. If an aircraft is taxiing toward you, pull off to the right side of the taxiway into the grass as far as needed to allow the aircraft to safely pass.
  3. Stop at the hold-short lines and look and listen for incoming aircraft from both ends of the runway, in the air and on the ground. If an aircraft is taking off or landing, then remain at the hold -short lines until the aircraft has cleared the runway.
  4. If no incoming aircraft are seen or heard and all aircraft have cleared the runway, make the following announcement twice on the UNICOM frequency, 123.00, before proceeding to cross: “Middletown Traffic, Middletown Traffic, parachute recovery vehicle holding short midfield to cross 23/05, all final traffic please advise, Middletown Traffic.” If no response after both calls, make the following call, “Middletown Traffic, Middletown Traffic, parachute recovery vehicle crossing midfield 23/05, Middletown Traffic.” Once you have crossed the runway make the following call, “Middletown Traffic, Middletown Traffic, parachute recovery vehicle clear of all runways, Middletown Traffic.” Then proceed to quickly cross in a straight line directly to the other side while continuing to watch for incoming aircraft. Repeat the exact same steps when crossing back with skydivers on-board while also having the skydivers verify that there are no incoming aircraft from both ends of the runway.

May I walk on the tarmac?

At no time may a skydiver walk on a tarmac unless they are being escorted by authorized Start Skydiving staff to board an aircraft. You must stay in the grass and enter through the gate by the D-license landing area. When walking back in the grass, keep your head up and watch for other jumpers that may be landing and aircraft that may be taxiing.

Important Miscellaneous Rules

 

  • Always use common sense and good judgement at all times.
  • Always treat others with courtesy and respect at all times.
  • Always clean up after yourself. If you see someone else make a mess, make them clean it up.
  • Alcohol consumption is not permitted until the last load has departed. No exceptions!
  • Absolutely no drugs are permitted on the airport at any point in time! Violators will be reported.

 

 

 

 

 

USPA License and Rating Information

USPA PRO Rating

The USPA PRO Rating qualifies skydivers for skydiving exhibitions into challenging landing areas. To earn the PRO rating, skydivers with a USPA D license must demonstrate landing skills with the parachute they plan to use for shows and receive training on how to use flags and pyrotechnic devices.

The FAA allows PRO-rating holders to fly and land closer to crowds than jumpers who have not demonstrated these qualifications. PRO rating privileges are listed in the Skydiver’s Information Manual, Section 7-1.

Specific information on the PRO rating is available in the Skydiver’s Information Manual, Section 7-2.

USPA Instructor Rating

Instructional Rating candidates must have a copy of the Instructional Rating Manual and a recent Skydiver’s Information Manual

Please call 513-422-JUMP (5867) to schedule Instructor Rating Course or email info@startskydiving.com.

USPA A License

Persons holding a USPA A license may jump without supervision, pack their own main parachute, engage in basic group jumps, perform water jumps, and must have-
a. completed 25 jumps
b. completed all requirements listed on the USPA A License Proficiency Card
c. completed five group freefall skydives involving at least two participants
d. received the signature and official stamp on the USPA A License Proficiency Card or USPA A License Progression Card (ISP)

Note: For USPA A-license registration purposes only, USPA Headquarters will accept either completed card signed by a USPA Instructor without the official stamp. The registration fee must be included.

USPA B License

Persons holding a USPA B license are able to exercise all privileges of an A-license holder, perform night jumps, with 100 jumps are eligible for the USPA Coach Rating, and must have-

a. obtained a USPA A license
b. completed 50 jumps including:
(1) accumulated at least 30 minutes of controlled freefall time
(2) landed within ten meters of target center on ten jumps
c. aerial performance requirements, either:
(1) demonstrated the ability to perform individual maneuvers
(left 360, right 360, backloop, left 360, right 360, backloop) in freefall in 18 seconds or less
(2) or successful completion of the planned formation(s) on ten group freefall jumps
d. documentation of live water landing training with full equipment in accordance with the procedures in the Skydiver’s Information Manual
e. passed a written exam conducted by a current USPA I, I/E, S&TA, or USPA Board member.

USPA C License

Persons holding a USPA C license are able to exercise all privileges of a B-license holder, are eligible for the USPA Instructor rating (except USPA Tandem Instructor), participate in certain demonstration jumps, may ride as passenger on USPA Tandem Instructor training and rating renewal jumps, and must have –

a. met all current requirements for or hold a USPA B license
b. completed 200 jumps, including accumulating at least 60 minutes of controlled freefall time
c. landed within two meters of target center on 25 jumps
d. aerial performance requirements, either:
(1) during freefall, perform in sequence within 18 seconds-a backloop, front loop,
left 360-degree turn, right 360-degree turn, right barrel roll and left barrel roll
(2) completed at least two points on an 8-way or larger random skydive
e. Passed a written exam conducted by a current USPA I/E, S&TA, or USPA Board member.

USPA D License

Persons holding a USPA D license are able to exercise all privileges of a C-license holder, are eligible for all USPA ratings, and must have –

a. met all current requirements for or hold a USPA C license
b. completed 500 jumps including accumulating at least three hours of controlled freefall time
c. made two night jumps (one solo and one in a group) with a freefall of at least 20 seconds
(1) with verification of prior night-jump training from a USPA Instructor holding a USPA D license
(2) with the advice of an S&TA, in accordance with USPA BSRs
d. Passed the written USPA D license exam conducted by a current USPA I/E, S&TA, or USPA Board member.