Parachuting

sturll

This is an unusual one i know, but my son wants to do a parachute jump. Its his birthday pretty soon and it would be the perfect present for him. However - he is only 7.

Has anyone any ideas whether it is even legal? Or where to start? Either here or in the USA?

Thanks.

Andy_L

If you type "parachute training" into google & tick the "pages from the UK option" the 1st non-sponsored link
"The minimum age for sport parachuting is 16 years"

alanrowell

It's not illegal to parachute at any age in the UK - however no reputable club would allow anyone under the age of 16 to parachute even in tandem.

In the US I haven't seen anywhere that would allow it under the age of 16 with many having a minimum age of 18

skylight

You cannot parachute at that age in the UK - alone or tandem.

What he could do though (I have taken my kids) is to an Airkix place instead. This is a giant wind tunnel that blows you upwards with the similar sensation. They accept young kids (mine was 5 when she first did this) as long as they fit securely into the safety helmets.

Incapuppy

What about that thing they do (I think there is one in Milton Keynes?) where you do simulated free fall stuff?

http://www.viewlondon.co.uk/experiences/indoor-skydiving-experience-info-885.html

Edited: airkix as has already been posted ;0)

skylight

Incapuppy wrote: »

What about that thing they do (I think there is one in Milton Keynes?) where you do simulated free fall stuff?

That is Airkix.

And its fun!!

sturll

Thanks all for the replies i had a funny feeling it was a no go. A true shame.

BUT - i wonder, since its not illegal i could always get a badge and then tandem with him?

Ill be looking into that i think.

Becles

Would he like paragliding instead?

We went to Olu Deniz in Turkey this year and me and my boys (11 and 9) paraglided in tandem off Babadag mountain which is 6000ft hight. It was awesome and my boys enjoyed it.

I know it's not the same as I've sky dived both tandem and solo too, but it's an experience he'll never forget.