SkydiveUK ltd is a drop zone in the village of Dunkeswell Dorset and derives from the old entity that was Devon and Somerset parachute school. This is one of the most friendly open dropzones one could possibly ask for (think skydive Spain (Seville) and you know what I mean).
The DZ’s CCI is Jason Farrant Jason is an awesome CCI and has none of the old guard CCI attributes (everyone is dangerous and should be regarded with distain!) while retaining safety as priority number one. Other main characters include Phil (an excellent instructor and top packer), Andy Montriou (going to Everest soon) and Paul who quickly organises loads in no time, finally there is Pete Stone a man of several thousand jumps and acts as their main FS coach.
They currently have the choice of two aircraft, the King air and a Cessna (which is used for student drops). Having jumped a Dornier G92, Turbo Finist and an islander, I can honestly say the king air is one of the best jumpships around, getting 15,000 feet in under 8 minutes effortlessly and piloted by one hugely experienced and excellent jump pilot Ed.
The staff are really friendly and do what they can to get you jumping quickly and safely, they offer advice and suggestions and will answer any questions with no fuss.
The PLA is Dunkeswell aerodrome which offers plenty of huge safe areas to land (Adrian –their safety officer makes sure all planes are well out of the way before dropping commences, he also gives really good DZ briefs) and is well managed and maintained.
On site facilities include camping, a clubhouse, hot showers (yes really!!), toilets, indoor carpeted packing area and tea coffee making facilities. They are also close (think 2 mins) from a bar for when the beer light goes on.
In short this is one very well organised fun dropzone with excellent facilities, run by top people with top aircraft and an excellent attitude to novice jumpers.
If you have not been I can honestly recommend this place with no hesitation.
