Les qualités exceptionnelles de nos pilotes de parachutisme

Estimated reading time: 12 minutes

When we think of skydiving , we often imagine the adrenaline rush of freefall , the breathtaking view from the sky, and the feeling of absolute freedom . But behind every successful jump, there’s a key element that’s often overlooked: the pilots . They are the ones who ensure a safe flight , a precise drop , and flawless coordination with the entire team on the ground and in the air. At Parachute Voltige , our pilots aren’t just airplane drivers: they are passionate experts, highly qualified and specialized in the art of skydiving.

1. Unparalleled expertise

Our pilots guarantee flight safety thanks to their vigilance and expertise. Our team is composed of  aviation veterans from national and international airlines, totaling tens of thousands of flight hours , as well as dynamic young pilots, each with no less than 1,000 flight hours .

In addition, all Parachute Voltige pilots , regardless of their experience, must successfully complete the company’s initial training program  and annual requalifications , as well as pass proficiency check flights before flying solo .

For over 20 years , Parachute Voltige’s pilot training program has been constantly improving, to the point that it is now one of the most comprehensive in the industry. It is even used as a reference by other skydiving centers in Canada and the United States .

2. Millimeter-precise drop accuracy

The location of the drop zone is carefully calculated to guarantee an optimal skydiving experience . But how exactly is the precise moment when the green light comes on to signal authorization to jump determined?

It’s a skillful blend of engineering and experience. Our pilots take several factors into account:

• The strength and direction of winds at different altitudes

• The number of jumpers on board

• The type(s) of jump(s) performed

• The aircraft’s ground speed

All these elements are analyzed to anticipate drift in freefall and under open parachute, thus guaranteeing an optimal return to the landing zone!

Thanks to a GPS specifically designed for aerial navigation , our pilots reach the drop point with an accuracy of less than 50 cm . In other words, the margin of error is minimal!

3. Clear and consistent communication

Parachute drops are a meticulously orchestrated team effort . To ensure the smooth running of operations, all relevant personnel remain in constant communication with the pilots via radio .

• The manifesto, which organizes the order of the jumps

• The technical director, who oversees air safety

• The ground safety officer, who monitors ground conditions

Throughout the flight, these actors transmit valuable information to the pilots , who then relay it to the jumpers.

Our pilots and parachutists also operate in a restricted airspace  and are under constant radar surveillance . Air traffic controllers provide real-time information on the position of other aircraft in flight, ensuring smooth and safe coordination .

4. Unwavering composure

Piloting a drop plane may seem repetitive, but  each flight is unique . Changing weather conditions, varied types of jumps, number of jumpers on board… Every detail influences the mission and requires constant adjustments.

Our pilots are specifically trained to handle all situations , whether normal, abnormal, or emergency, with calm and professionalism . Their ability to adapt to these variables is essential to ensuring the safety and smooth operation  of flight operations .

5. A passion for aviation that is palpable

At Voltige, our pilots don’t do this job by chance: they are passionate !

Although skydiving is a seasonal activity, the camaraderie, the adrenaline rush, and the love of flying keep them coming back year after year. They all agree that this type of flying is a unique experience in the world of aviation . Without exception, they will tell you how much they appreciate this type of flight, which brings them great satisfaction .

You will also be able to see this enthusiasm in their smiles at the end of the day, after having completed several flights with precision and efficiency .

6. In-depth expertise in navigation, meteorology, and aeronautical mechanics

Our pilots, passionate about aviation, not only possess excellent maneuvering skills but are also specialists in parachute drops. This type of flight is very unique and bears little resemblance to other types of work an airline pilot may have performed in their career.

Our pilots are drop professionals who have developed expertise in the unique characteristics of parachute jumps, such as:

• Regulations and standards specific to skydiving

• Mechanical modifications to drop aircraft

• Navigation on standardized uphill and downhill routes

• Management of normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures specific to skydiving

• Limitations related to weather conditions and their impact on the drop

• The types of jumps and the drop configurations associated with them

• Effect of the loss of the entire load and changes in center of gravity during flight as the parachutists leave the aircraft;

• Coordination between several simultaneous drop aircraft

• Procedures related to the very rare malfunctions of skydiving equipment on board the cabin

• The art of flying in formation with several aircraft as part of special events… Like records.

Skydiving is an exhilarating experience, but it relies on skills and expertise invisible to the passengers. Behind every jump is a  highly qualified pilot , capable of ensuring a smooth flight, a precise drop, and optimal safety .

Thanks to their rigorous training, passion and commitment, our pilots make all the difference and allow everyone to have a memorable experience with complete confidence .

The next time you board one of our planes, take a moment to greet your pilot . Their expertise is the key to your adventure in the sky !