I drive four hours to skydive at Chicagoland Skydiving Center (CSC). I do this every other weekend (or more), for most of the midwest skydiving season. I live in Fort Wayne, Indiana, so CSC is not the closest dropzone to me, not by a long shot. I make this drive because it is worth it to me. And I’m not the only one that drives this far.

The 2016 season has begun. Hopefully, you were able to join us for USPA Safety Day to get your mind and gear ready to jump this spring. On Saturday, March 12, we gathered for refresher courses, announcements, a series of seminars, and afterparty at our Flight Deck Bar & Grill.

If you weren't able to join us, here's what you missed, and some helpful reminders to review as you get back in the air. Let's have a safe season!

The first time you're considering going skydiving, you probably aren't totally sure what to expect. We've compiled a lot of tips and answers to frequently asked skydiving questions, but sometimes you just don't want to hear from a company (it's cool, we understand). So we thought we'd share some advice from people just like you, who have already made their first jump. Take it from them - they've been there!

Chicagoland Skydiving Center and the Flight Deck Bar & Grill combine to create a truly unique event venue. How many people get to party in an airplane hangar? We have been hosting events large and small for years, so trust us: we know there’s a lot to keep track of when you want to impress your guests. Luckily for you, all that experience -- and our expansive, soup-to-nuts venue -- adds up to smooth sailing for the happy organizers who place their special occasion in our capable hands. From corporate meetings to weddings to team building to fundraisers to birthday bashes to bachelor parties, we’ve done it all. Curious? Here’s how the magic happens.

You’re not alone. Every new skydiver has questions that they need answered before walking onto an airplane with the intention of jumping out. If you’re considering bringing in a group to share the experience, you’re certain even more questions will arise. We’re here to help! Note that some of these answers vary depending on where you choose to skydive, so it’s important to research different dropzones if there are a few you are trying to choose from. Here’s what you can expect when you jump with CSC, the original Chicago skydiving school.