mflint

Disclaimer: I've never jumped anywhere else Note: contrary to an earlier review, AADs are now mandatory for all jumpers unless you get explicit exemption from the CCI. (You will need a good reason) Aircraft: two Cessna Grand Caravans (C208B). Appear to be well maintained, in great condition. Pilots: friendly and efficient. Instructors/coaches: numerous, experienced and helpful. If they can help, they will. I've never had anyone say no without a very good reason. I loved learning from these folks, AFF and FS1. Some of them do regular (daily!) trips to wind tunnels too. CCI: approachable, patient and thorough. Cafe: this is where you buy your bacons. Yay bacons! DZO: friendlier than his reputation would suggest, very experienced skydiver and DZO. Probably doesn't get the respect he deserves. I have received one of Dave's famous bollockings, but frankly I did deserve it. Dave went *well* out his way to help when I sprained my ankle last year. Much much more helpful than I'd have expected. Shop: surprisingly well stocked given its size. Offers rigging services and AFF too. Quick turnaround for rigging work (such as new linesets, reserve repacks). Has a steady turnover of used gear. Showers/loos: usually spotless. Packing area: carpeted, usually large enough. But I wish everyone else would remove their muddy shoes before walking around on the carpet :-/

I'm happy to say I had many pleasant chats with Brian in my short skydiving career. Brian was a very sweet chap, always approachable, with plenty of time for novice and experienced skydivers alike. Alas, I didn't progress quickly enough to jump with him - he was going to be my first port of call after getting FS1. A while back, after I had a badly-timed flare, I asked Brian if he had any hints about timing the flare. I think about that advice, and about Brian, every time I come into land - and I probably always will. Cheers lad!