Skydiving in New Jersey

An ideal destination for freefall enthusiasts

Centers such as Skydive Sussex, Skydive Cross Keys, and Skydive East Coast are among the most renowned on the East Coast. Located less than an hour from New York or Philadelphia, New Jersey attracts many skydiving fans every year who come to enjoy its ideal flying conditions. At altitude, the panoramas are stunning — on one side, the Atlantic Ocean; on the other, the forests of the Pine Barrens and the valleys of the Delaware River. Each center offers several types of jumps for all levels, from first-time tandem experiences to complete training programs.

Tandem jump: a first experience accessible to everyone

For those who want to discover skydiving without prior training, the tandem jump in New Jersey remains the most popular option. Supervised by a professional instructor, you board a small airplane that gradually climbs to about 13,000 feet. The experience begins during the ascent, with impressive views of the coast and surrounding countryside. Then comes the moment of the jump — securely attached to your instructor, you experience freefall before the parachute opens. Jumps at Skydive East Coast, near Ocean City, are among the most spectacular, offering direct views of the beaches, salt marshes, and barrier islands. It’s both an intense and accessible adventure, perfect for a first contact with the world of skydiving.

AFF training: learning to fly on your own

For those who wish to take things further, several schools in New Jersey offer AFF (Accelerated Freefall) training. This program, available at Skydive Cross Keys and Skydive Sussex, teaches students to jump solo from the very first sessions. Accompanied by two certified instructors, the student learns to stabilize their position in flight, control their fall, and deploy their parachute safely. With each jump, the assistance decreases, leading to full independence. The training spans several days and includes ground instruction, theory lessons, and multiple jumps at different altitudes. It’s an immersive experience designed for those who want to turn skydiving into a true passion.

Indoor skydiving in Paramus: a safe and fun alternative

To feel the sensations of freefall without an airplane or altitude, the iFLY Paramus indoor skydiving simulator is a must-visit. Located in northern New Jersey, near Newark and Jersey City, this vertical wind tunnel reproduces the feeling of a parachute jump from over 12,000 feet. A powerful airflow keeps you floating mid-air under the supervision of a professional instructor. Open to participants as young as 3 years old, this activity suits both kids and adults and requires no preparation. The center offers several options, from two to four flights, as well as training sessions for those who want to improve their technique before making an outdoor jump.

A region made for aerial adventure

New Jersey is now one of the most dynamic states on the East Coast for skydiving. Its location — between major cities and the Atlantic coastline — makes it a prime spot for flight enthusiasts. Whether you choose a tandem jump above Ocean City, an AFF course in the southern plains, or an indoor session in Paramus, each experience reflects the state’s geographical and aerial diversity. USPA-certified centers ensure safety and professionalism, while the variety of landscapes provides an exceptional backdrop for every jump. Between ocean, forest, and urban zones, skydiving in New Jersey combines freedom, discovery, and strong emotions in a unique setting on the East Coast.