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There are no Federal or Provincial laws governing sport parachuting. The safety of persons pursuing parachuting training in
Canada rests in the hands of the individuals who operate skydiving training centres (Drop Zones). Unfortunately, as you will
see, the people operating drop zones cannot be trusted to place customer safety above all other concerns.
Customers are the life blood of every drop zone. Without the cash flow provided by student skydivers, drop zones would
quickly succumb to the heavy burden of costs associated with any commercial aviation enterprise.
Strangely, while costs of operation for drop zones have sprialed out of control, the asking price for a first jump experience
has not risen appreciably in more than a decade. The result is a lower standard in equipment maintenance as compared to 15
to 20 years ago.
This translates to an increased risk of serious injury or death for members of the general public who visit a drop zone
to make a once in a lifetime skydive.
Worse yet, some of the most experienced skydivers in Canada participate in a conspiracy of silence to stifle discussion
regarding unsafe operating practises.
See the link "CASE IN POINT" for specific details.
CSPA has clearly stated they do not wish to adopt a compliance monitoring role for CSPA affiliated drop zones. Federal
and/or Provincial legislation is the only option available to ensure Canadian drop zones operate in compliance with parachuting
industry safety standards.
Case In Point
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