Skydiving is relatively safe when proper precautions are taken. Statistically, the average fatality rate for all skydiving jumps is about 0.0011% (approximately 1 fatality per 90,000 jumps), and the injury rate is around 0.044%. Tandem skydiving, where a beginner is harnessed to an experienced instructor, is even safer, with about 1 death per 500,000 tandem jumps, which translates to 0.002% per 1,000 tandem jumps. Most accidents occur with experienced jumpers attempting advanced maneuvers like low turns on landing. Skydiving risks include parachute malfunctions, injury on landing, and freefall collisions. Statistically, skydiving is safer than many everyday activities, including driving and choking on food.
Key Safety Statistics
- Average fatality rate: about 0.0011% (1 in 90,000 jumps)
- Tandem skydiving fatality rate: 1 in 500,000 jumps
- Injury rate: 0.044%
- Main causes of accidents: parachute malfunction, landing injury, collisions during freefall
- Experienced jumpers involved more often in fatalities due to advanced maneuvers
Comparisons and Safety Measures
- Skydiving is statistically safer than driving long distances or choking on food.
- Tandem skydivers are attached to certified instructors with rigorous training and gear checks.
- Safety continues to improve with advancements in gear, training, and protocols.
- Risks can be minimized by following safety rules, using proper equipment, and jumping under recommended conditions.
In summary, while skydiving involves inherent risk, it is generally very safe, especially for first-time tandem jumpers, and fatalities are rare.
