## How Much Does a Skydive Instructor Get Paid?
Skydiving is an exhilarating and rewarding activity, but it also comes with a certain amount of risk. That’s why it’s so important to have qualified and experienced skydive instructors on hand to ensure the safety of everyone involved. But how much do these instructors get paid?
Factors that Affect Skydive Instructor Pay
The amount of money that a skydive instructor earns can vary depending on a number of factors, including:
Experience: Instructors with more experience typically earn more money than those with less experience.
Certifications: Instructors with more certifications, such as tandem instructor or AFF instructor, can also earn more money.
Location: The cost of living in the area where the instructor works can also affect their salary.
Company size: Instructors who work for larger skydiving companies may earn more money than those who work for smaller companies.
Average Skydive Instructor Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for skydiving instructors was $38,670 in May 2021. The lowest 10 percent of earners made less than $22,160, and the highest 10 percent of earners made more than $66,350.
How to Become a Skydive Instructor
To become a skydive instructor, you must first meet the following requirements:
Be at least 18 years old
Have a valid USPA membership
Have at least 500 skydives
Have a current FAA medical certificate
Pass a written exam
Pass a practical exam
Once you have met these requirements, you can apply to become a skydive instructor at a USPA-affiliated skydiving center.
Conclusion
Skydive instructors play a vital role in ensuring the safety and enjoyment of skydiving participants. The amount of money that they earn can vary depending on a number of factors, but the median annual salary is around $38,670. If you are interested in becoming a skydive instructor, you must first meet the requirements and pass a written and practical exam.
## Additional Information
In addition to the factors listed above, there are a few other things that can affect a skydive instructor’s salary, such as:
Tips: Skydive instructors often earn tips from their students.
Bonuses: Some skydiving companies offer bonuses to instructors who meet certain goals, such as teaching a certain number of students.
Other income: Skydive instructors may also earn income from other sources, such as selling skydiving gear or giving guest lectures.
The following is a list of some of the benefits that skydive instructors may receive:
Free skydives: Skydive instructors often receive free skydives as part of their compensation.
Discounts on gear: Skydive instructors may receive discounts on skydiving gear from manufacturers and retailers.
Travel opportunities: Skydive instructors may have the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world to teach skydiving.
Flexible hours: Skydive instructors typically have flexible hours, which can be a great benefit for those who have other commitments, such as family or school.