It’s one of those divisive activities people either can’t wait to do or would refuse to do no matter how much money you pay them.

Skydiving is one of the most extreme forms of adrenaline pumping activities modern thrill seekers can find. The act of jumping out of a “perfectly good airplane” boggles the mind of most but seems to find itself on thousands of bucket lists. 

Skydive Tecumseh has been in operation for over 45 years in Tecumseh, Mich. 

As one approaches Skydive Tecumseh’s setup, there’s not much to boast about when looking at the buildings. The rusted cockpit of an old plane greets people as they make their way down a skinny one-lane dirt path taking them towards the landing strip. 

The rough white metal siding of the main office is the epitome of the saying “don’t judge a book by its cover.” Inside, technology and fun are melded together as administration staff monitor flights, collect fees and skydivers tighten harnesses on nervous first timers. 

Aside from paying $225 for a three minute experience, the wait is the only other downfall. First time jumpers are told that a three or four hour wait is normal. “Plan for the entire day” the staff tell callers.  

Tecumseh uses a PAC 750XL, which is an official label for a single prop plane with a side roll door to fall out of, with a parachute, of course. 

Skydive Tecumseh employees are certified through the United States Parachute Association, and believe in having a good time. They take the nervousness of first timer flyers and magically turn it into excitement.  

The experience that begins at 14,000 feet lasts nearly three minutes. There’s a 60 second free fall where speeds can exceed 130 mph.

If requested and purchased, a videographer will jump with the tandem team. Attached to the videographer’s helmet is a Sony HD camcorder and Canon DSLR camera to ensure the experience is documented in the highest quality.

The jump is documented from take off until the skydiver pulls the ripcord and the parachute ejects from the backpack.

Screams and cheers from most are heard down the runway after the landing, with many yelling “I want to go again.” Others, though, find themselves on all fours trying to keep their lunch down. 

If someone would like to do a solo skydive their first time, Skydive Tecumseh offers a six hour classroom session to learn the intricacies of the sport, although someone’s first tandem jump requires no training. 

A video is played, a check list of things is reviewed and they’re ready to jump from the plane.    

Skydive Tecumseh have built a reputable business allowing several generations of families to “experience human flight,” (the tag line printed on nearly all their T- shirts).

To find out more information, visit www.skydivetecumseh.com.