Ever wondered how long does skydiving last? Whether you’re an adventure traveler, a thrill seeker, or a first-time skydiver, one of the first questions that pops into your mind is: How long will I actually be in the air?
The answer depends on altitude, type of jump, and even weather conditions — but we’ll break it all down for you here. Let’s explore 7 powerful facts that will amaze you about skydiving duration and what to expect from your jump.
1. What Determines the Duration of a Skydive?
The total time for a skydive isn’t just about how long you’re falling — it includes your freefall, canopy (parachute) time, and preparation.
Here are the key factors that influence your skydive duration:
- Exit altitude: Higher altitude = longer freefall time.
- Type of jump: Tandem skydives usually last longer due to controlled descent.
- Weather and wind conditions: Stronger winds can slightly affect canopy time.
- Parachute deployment height: Usually between 5,000–6,000 feet.
Average duration:
A typical skydive lasts around 5 to 7 minutes, including about 45–60 seconds of freefall and 4–6 minutes of parachute gliding to the ground.
2. Freefall Time: How Long Do You Actually Fall?
During the freefall, you’ll experience the most thrilling part of skydiving — the rush of wind, the feeling of weightlessness, and the breathtaking view below.
How long does it take to fall 15,000 feet?
A skydive from 15,000 feet gives you roughly 60 seconds of freefall, depending on body position and air resistance.
How long does it take to skydive from 10,000, 14,000, and 30,000 feet?
| Altitude (feet) | Freefall Duration (approx.) | Total Skydive Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10,000 ft | 30 seconds | 5–6 minutes |
| 14,000 ft | 50 seconds | 6–7 minutes |
| 15,000 ft | 60 seconds | 6–8 minutes |
| 30,000 ft (HALO jump) | 90+ seconds | 8–10 minutes |
The higher you jump, the longer your freefall — but also the more oxygen you’ll need at extreme altitudes like 30,000 feet (used for military-style HALO jumps).
How fast do you fall when skydiving (km/h)?
Skydivers typically reach a terminal velocity of around 190–220 km/h (120–140 mph) in the belly-to-earth position.
In a head-down dive, it can exceed 320 km/h (200 mph)!
3. Parachute (Canopy) Phase & Total Skydiving Time
Once the parachute deploys (usually at about 5,000 feet), the world suddenly quiets down. The freefall rush transforms into a peaceful glide.
How long is the skydive total time?
From the plane exit to landing, the entire experience lasts about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Freefall: 30–60 seconds
- Parachute glide: 4–6 minutes
How long does a tandem skydive last?
Tandem skydives are slightly longer because instructors deploy the parachute earlier for extra safety. Expect about 6 to 8 minutes total, depending on altitude and descent rate.
4. Is Skydiving Painful or Uncomfortable?
Many first-timers ask: How painful is skydiving?
The good news — it’s not painful at all! While you’ll feel a strong wind during freefall and a snug harness, the experience is more exhilarating than uncomfortable.
- Ears: You might feel slight pressure changes like on an airplane.
- Harness: Feels tight but secure.
- Landing: Smooth and gentle with modern parachute designs.
If you have sinus congestion or ear issues, it’s best to consult your instructor before the jump.
5. How Much Does Skydiving Cost?
Skydiving prices vary by altitude, location, and jump type. Here’s an average range:
| Jump Type | Altitude | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Tandem Skydive | 10,000–14,000 ft | $200–$300 |
| Solo Jump (Licensed) | 10,000–15,000 ft | $150–$250 |
| HALO Jump | 25,000–30,000 ft | $400–$600 |
💡 Tip: Prices often include training, gear, and video options — check your local skydive center for exact rates.
If you’re planning your first jump, visit Skydive Guides for complete information on locations, safety tips, and booking options.
6. 7 Powerful Facts About Skydiving Duration
- You reach terminal velocity in about 10 seconds.
- Skydiving from 15,000 feet gives nearly 1 full minute of freefall.
- The entire jump — from exit to landing — averages 6–7 minutes.
- Tandem jumps last longer than solo jumps.
- You can control descent speed using parachute toggles.
- A HALO jump can last up to 10 minutes in total.
- Freefall feels more like floating than falling — your stomach doesn’t drop!
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does skydiving last?
Most skydives last 5–7 minutes, including 30–60 seconds of freefall and about 4–6 minutes under parachute before landing.
How long does freefall last in skydiving?
Freefall lasts around 45–60 seconds from 14,000–15,000 feet. Higher jumps like 30,000 feet can extend freefall to 90 seconds or more.
How fast do you fall when skydiving?
The average freefall speed is 190–220 km/h (120–140 mph). In faster body positions, skydivers can reach over 300 km/h (186 mph).
Is skydiving painful or scary?
Skydiving isn’t painful. The initial adrenaline rush is intense, but most first-time jumpers describe it as peaceful, freeing, and life-changing once the parachute opens.
How much does a skydive cost?
Expect to pay between $200 and $300 for a standard tandem skydive, and up to $600 for high-altitude or special jumps.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does skydiving last? — just a few minutes, but those minutes are unforgettable. From the heart-racing freefall to the serene parachute descent, the experience will stay with you forever.