Built on legacy
Skydive DeLand opened in 1982, continuing a rich skydiving legacy at DeLand Municipal Airport that began in 1959.
History
The Birth of a Skydiving Hub
DeLand's skydiving legacy officially began when Dr. John “Doc” Gaffney relocated to DeLand and started the DeLand Falling Angels at the Municipal Airport. The club hosted many parachute competitions and introduced some of the first freefall events transforming a quiet local runway into the country’s rising hub for parachute operations.
A Commercial Operation
Jump operations transitioned when Gary and Roger Dupuis and Tim Saltonstall established the DeLand Sport Parachute Center. With increased aircraft support and facilities they grew as a destination for serious parachutists. Gary bought the famed Mr. Douglas in 1973, leading the nation in the operation of DC-3s, which carried more than 30 skydivers, at a time when most drop zones had 4 place Cessnas and a few had 10 place Twin Beeches.
Bill Booth & The Hardware Revolution
Legendary inventor Bill Booth followed the Miami area jumpers, attracted by the DC-3, to DeLand and established The Relative Workshop (now United Parachute Technologies) to build innovative skydiving equipment. By inventing the hand-deploy pilot chute and revolutionary 3-ring release system, Booth forever changed the sport, turning DeLand into a global magnet for technological development and manufacturing of skydiving equipment.
Skydive DeLand is Founded
Under the visionary leadership and ownership of Bob Hallett and Tom Pirus, Skydive DeLand opened to provide improved training for students and to establish a premier, dedicated training facility for competitors. The facility rapidly evolved into a prestigious global destination where people became skydivers and skydivers became champions.
Pioneering Modern Skydiving
DeLand became the ultimate testing ground for the sport's greatest advancements. By developing the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program and then Tandem skydiving, DeLand set the standard for modern skydiving instruction. It concurrently became the premier destination for serious competitive teams, massive record-breaking formation jumps, and new competitive disciplines.
Continuous Improvement
Skydive DeLand firmly cemented its legacy as the "Skydiving Capital of the World." Serving as the anchor business for the DeLand Parachute Industry, it draws over 24 world-class parachute equipment companies and remains the dedicated training home for many facets of skydiving from first timers to world champions.
DeLand Florida
For decades, Skydive DeLand has been part of what makes DeLand, Florida unique. As the dropzone grew, so did the community surrounding it, bringing together parachute manufacturers, training organizations, competitors, coaches, riggers, and skydivers from around the world. Today, more than two dozen skydiving-related businesses call DeLand home, creating one of the most connected skydiving communities anywhere.
Where Beginners Fly & Champions Train
Whether you’re making your first skydive or returning for your next thousand, Skydive DeLand has long been a place where people come to learn, train, compete, and grow within the sport. From Tandem and Accelerated Freefall (AFF) to advanced coaching and organized events, every level of skydiver has a place here.
Throughout the year, Skydive DeLand hosts coaching camps, record attempts, and training events with respected organizations including Flight-1, Fly4Life, and Arcus Flight, creating opportunities for skydivers to continue progressing long after their first jump.
Trusted By
Industry leading trainers and manufacturers
Why Jump at Skydive deland?
Training Legacy
Home to the development of AFF and a key part of tandem skydiving history.
Industry Hub
Anchored by 24 world-class parachute manufacturing companies.
Skydiving Community
Jump alongside legendary world champions and record holders.
Built For Skydivers
Year-round jumping with an observation deck and restaurant.
What people say...
Upcoming events you should be at
Skydive DeLand hosts coaching camps, training events, boogies, and organized jumps throughout the year for all skill levels and all disciplines. Check out what’s coming up and join us at the dropzone!