When you leave the aircraft, you are moving horizontally at the same speed as the aircraft, typically 90 mph. During the first 10 seconds or so, a skydiver accelerates up to roughly 115–130 mph straight down. A tandem jump pair uses a drogue chute to keep them from falling much faster than this.

Once under canopy, descent rates of 1,000 feet per minute are typical; however, the parachute is designed with steering controls and “brakes” to slow you down for a soft landing when the time arrives.

While falling at an accelerated rate, you’ll be able to see what skydiving is about with breathtaking views as far as the eye can see.