FAQ
Since most of my shows repeat year after year, questions are not exactly "frequent." But here are some things you might want to know.
Q: Why use professional skydivers?
A: Audiences love to watch parachutes. Demographic studies have shown again and again that parachute acts are favorites among spectators at outdoor events. Skydiver make your event extra special in the minds of your audience. The bottom line - more people will come and more people will return to your event when they know skydivers will perform. They love it!
Q: Why choose Mark Schlatter Skydiving? A: Clients who have tried ALL the others tell me that I am the best and most reliable skydiving entertainment provider. I am dedicated full time to skydiving entertainment. I coach my teammates on the need to behave like part of the staff and not like part of the audience. We work for you to help you make your event successful. Adding skydiving to your event should be almost effortless; we try and keep it that way.
Q: How far in advance should I call?
A: Please give me more than 30 days if you can. I did a show for Dan Quayle just 48 hours after the first call. But FAA did not like responding that quickly to my paperwork request. FAA prefers having more than 2 weeks notice to process documents and issue Authorizations. I need time to complete those documents which include information on site check, jump aircraft, pilot, crowd control, geographic and aeronautical information.
Q: What if bad weather prevents the jump?A: If the jump can be completed safely, we will get it done. My clients are often surprised by the safety and reliability of today's square parachutes in winds up to 20 mph. When we have to make the NO GO decision, we refund any amount for costs not incurred, such as airplanes that don't fly. We stick to plan A until you say it's too late. If we can move a jump time in the script to accommodate changing weather, we're happy to do that. Most of my shows can be completed from altitudes as low as 2000 feet above the target, so clouds are not a problem then.
Q: What do I need to do to book a performance?A: Just a phone phone call or email is all I need to get you onto our schedule. I work hard to make it very easy for you to add skydiving to your events. Just say when and where, and I'll help you make it happen.
Q: How much will a performance cost?A: I use a flat rate system so you know exactly what you are spending. For a 1-day, 1-jump performance with any giant flag in inventory, your total cost is $2890. Additional jumpers cost $650 per jumper. Novelty jumps customized for your event are priced individually. Cost variables for novelty or specialty jumps include custom rigging, custom banners, practice jumps (with costumes), pyrotechnic supplies, aircraft support, etcetera.
Q: Are prices negotiable?
A: You might be able to reduce the cost by providing accommodations, travel, or aircraft.
Q: What if I have a sponsor?
A: That's great! We are happy to help you create and expand the recognition the recognition your sponsor has purchased. My 2-way radio system allows live voice to your audience, even in free fall! I often engage in dialog with your announcer from inside the plane and on the way down to transmit live plugs for your sponsors. Custom flags or parachutes with your sponsor's logo or message last indefinitely.
Q: What in the world is in that photo at the top of this page?
A: Oh, that? That's an upright-grand-piano-catapult. One of many wacky but spectacular antics I see when I jump into the remote camp of the Rancheros Visitadores.
photos by Mark Schlatter
This page was last modified on Saturday, March 22, 2008 08:36:50 AM