Blog Post: Is Skydiving Safe? Myths, Facts, and What You Need to Know

October 3, 2025

If you’re wondering, “Is skydiving really safe?”-you’re not alone.

Many first-timers feel nervous about their first jump, especially when friends and family raise the big safety question. So today, let’s talk facts, not fear. Because at Skydive Suffolk, safety isn’t just a priority-it’s a standard.

Myth #1: Skydiving Is Reckless and Risky

Fact: Skydiving is one of the most highly regulated extreme sports in the U.S.

At Skydive Suffolk, all jumps adhere to the United States Parachute Association (USPA) safety protocols. We don’t guess-we follow decades of data-backed, experience-proven procedures designed to keep you safe from the moment you arrive to the moment you touch down.

👉 Read more about What to Expect on Your First Tandem Skydive


Myth #2: Tandem Instructors Aren’t Always Qualified

Fact: Every Skydive Suffolk tandem instructor is USPA-licensed and has completed hundreds (sometimes thousands!) of jumps.

You’re not jumping with a hobbyist-you’re jumping with a pro who’s trained to handle everything from gear checks to weather calls. Our instructors not only know their stuff-they know how to keep you calm, guide you through the experience, and help you feel in control every step of the way.

“My instructor was awesome, very nice, and experienced.” – Matt
“Josh changed my life! I have a fear of heights,
and he was so reassuring and comforting!” – Keyunda


Myth #3: Parachutes Can Fail

Fact: At Skydive Suffolk, every parachute is packed and inspected by FAA-certified riggers.

Not only do we use state-of-the-art tandem rigs, but each is equipped with an Automatic Activation Device (AAD). This backup system deploys the reserve parachute automatically in the rare case that the main parachute isn’t manually pulled. You’re covered twice.

“Top-tier equipment, everything felt secure. The video and photos were awesome too.” – Jennifer


Myth #4: You’ll Feel Like You’re Falling

Fact: Most people say it feels more like floating or flying.

That fear of a stomach-drop? It doesn’t happen. Because you’re already thousands of feet above the ground, your brain doesn’t process it as a typical fall-more like an exhilarating flight.

“The scariest part was just my own thoughts. The jump itself was incredible!” – Rina


Myth #5: If Something Goes Wrong, You’re on Your Own

Fact: Tandem skydiving means you’re securely harnessed to a pro-you’re never alone.

From briefing to freefall to landing, you’re guided every second by someone who’s trained to keep you safe. We also make sure every jumper is fully informed before takeoff with a pre-jump safety briefing, gear checks, and time for questions.

“Everyone was professional, super friendly, and very informative.” – Mike
“Blaine explained everything to me-I felt I was in capable hands.” – Steven


What You Can Expect from Skydive Suffolk

USPA-certified instructors
FAA-certified riggers & gear inspectors
State-of-the-art tandem equipment
Pre-jump safety briefing

Backup parachute system (AAD)
Supportive staff who treat you like family

👉 Learn more about Tandem Skydiving at Skydive Suffolk
👉 Curious about overcoming pre-jump fear? Read: Overcoming Your Fear of Heights Before Skydiving


The Truth About Skydiving Safety

Yes, skydiving carries risk, just like driving a car or boarding a plane. But with strict safety standards, certified professionals, and top-grade equipment, the sport is far safer than most people imagine.

In fact, statistics show skydiving incidents are extremely rare, especially in tandem jumps with certified instructors. You’re not just jumping-you’re jumping with people who live and breathe safety every single day.

“Experience of a lifetime. Most of it is mental… It is safer than it looks.” – Abel


Ready to Feel Safe, Brave, and Alive?

Your first skydive doesn’t have to be scary-it can be empowering. And with the right people guiding you, it just might be one of the best decisions you ever make.🎯 Book Your Tandem Jump Today


📍 Learn more about Skydive Suffolk’s Facility & Team

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