Hey all,

Im a low time pilot trying to get into the skydive scene this coming March and onwards. Ive heard its a good place for low time guys. Anyone out here gone that route and if so any advice? Im desperate to find low time work and start actually getting paid to fly. I have about 250 hours with a CPL/M.IFR. Really looking for some direction on how to get things going/best way to contact these guys.

etihadCC wrote:Im desperate to find low time work and start actually getting paid to fly. I have about 250 hours with a CPL/M.IFR.

This is why companies find it so easy to take advantage of young pilots.

If they tell you that you:

A) need to pay for a checkout
B) they don't make much money so dont pay you, but willing to give you "free" flight time
C) pay anything less than minimum wage for hours worked or hours expected to be onsite
D) expect you to sit at the jump zone all day every weekend but only get paid a small pittance per load

STAY AWAY! Accepting work under these condition does nothing but contribute to the decline of our profession. The companies that operate in these ways are somewhat notorious and a search for "skydive" will no doubt turn up a few threads revealiing some of these operators to stay away from

Skydivers are tight knit group. Although it's not a requirement you will be taken a bit more serious if you do a couple of jumps.

Skydivers are tight knit group. Although it's not a requirement you will be taken a bit more serious if you do a couple of jumps.

http://www.diverdriver.com/


And stop by the DZs and chat em up!!!

It's where I started.

Start calling DZ's. Lots in Quebec and lots out west. You can check the CSPA web page for a list.

Another option may be to go get your American Conversion. I have no idea what's involved but I know that a few years ago, they were trying to make it easier. If you get your American CPL, there are a ton of DZ's down south and they typically fly a lot more due to better weather.

The advice about doing a jump is solid as well. As a former Skydiving Instructor, I can tell you that it's important.

Good luck!

CK