Kansas State University Parachute Club

# Kansas State University Parachute Club: Abilene's Historic Collegiate Skydiving Center

Kansas State University Parachute Club operates from Abilene Municipal Airport in Abilene, Kansas, and claims distinction as one of the oldest collegiate parachute clubs in existence. In continuous operation since 1964, KSUPC represents a rare institution—the only collegiate parachute club in the United States that owns its own airplane and operates its own dropzone.

The club operates a Cessna 182 jump plane equipped with engine and propeller upgrades, affectionately known as "560." This wide-body aircraft enables regular jump operations on weekends and select weekdays throughout the year. The dropzone sits near Manhattan, Kansas, positioning Abilene as an accessible skydiving destination for students, club members, and visiting jumpers. The facility offers carpeted parking and maintains a welcoming atmosphere for walk-in visitors, though advance scheduling is recommended to confirm instructor availability.

Kansas State Parachute Club caters to all experience levels through multiple training pathways. For first-time jumpers, tandem skydiving provides the quickest entry into freefall—requiring less than an hour of training before making a skydive with a USPA-certified instructor. The club also operates a full AFF (Accelerated Freefall) static line program for those pursuing licensed solo skydiving credentials. Tandem jumps are priced at $230 regularly, with video packages available at $55 for inside video or $80 for outside video captured by a freefall videographer.

The Static Line (solo) first jump course costs $180 and includes gear rental, club fees for the semester, and the first skydive itself. KSUPC offers a discounted rate of $130 for first jumps following a tandem skydive, recognizing students who return to pursue solo progression. The club's Student Package provides comprehensive training value at $180, covering two static line jumps plus a first freefall, with all gear rental included.

All instructors hold USPA ratings and certifications. The club emphasizes safety and personalized attention: instructors perform detailed briefings, oversee equipment carefully, and conduct three-point gear checks before every jump. The facility maintains a 500-pound total weight limit per jump (student, instructors, and equipment combined) to comply with FAA equipment certification standards.

Operating since 1964, Kansas State Parachute Club has served generations of skydivers—from collegiate enthusiasts to licensed professionals. The club's longevity and student-run structure reflect a unique commitment to making skydiving accessible and maintaining community values. Whether you're a first-time jumper curious about tandem experiences or a dedicated skydiver seeking solo progression, Abilene's historic parachute club welcomes you to experience the sky from a dropzone built on over five decades of expertise and tradition.