Archway is where it all began for me, and I have found no reason to go anywhere else. From day one, everyone there from staff to other jumpers, to the DZO have made me feel right at home. There's never a dull moment, even when it's too cold or cloudy to jump. Whether you are into RW or freeflying, there's always someone to jump with. There is too much good stuff to say about Archway, so if you're ever in the neighborhood, stop on by and we'll leave the light on for ya
Joe Abeln
US Army Golden Knight
My first jump was an AFF, and then I transitioned to the Static Line Program at Archway. The Static Line program fit my budget better and was taught at a pace that allowed me to absorb all the new information. A few jumps later and I was freefalling by myself! Now, with over 100 jumps, I still go out to Archway as often as I can. The more experienced jumpers are always eager to share their knowledge and jump with me. Skydiving is a constant learning process and I can’t think of a better place to do it than Archway Skydiving!
Mike Toombs
I have been coming to Archway Skydiving since 1995. I have made over 1,000 skydives at Archway. I have had the opportunity to visit many dropzones……and will tell you that Archway Skydiving is one of the finest dropzones in the country. Since taking over Archway Skydiving, Jason and Anita have managed their business to an industry leading position. Jason and Anita’s level of business professionalism displayed on an ongoing basis and their uncompromising approach to safety makes them a preferred supplier to skydivers. I have many friends from Western Indiana, Eastern Illinois, Central Illinois, and Missouri who come to Vandalia every weekend to jump. The majority of these folks have airports and dropzones that are located physically closer to them. The quality of the airport in Vandalia and the operation of Archway Skydiving continue to draw them in.
Terry Ball
As a member of the University of Illinois skydiving club, Archway is like a second home to me. We pass several dropzones on our way down to Vandalia every weekend, but none can compare to the experience of Archway. The training I received was phenomenal, and I continue to learn from the many experienced coaches and instructors. I worked with many different instructors during my static line progression, and every single one was professional, friendly, and fun. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the regulars are approachable and excited to talk to students about skydiving or just about life in general. Although I've been to other dropzones, none compare to the wonderful place Jason and Anita have built.
Mike Murphy
Treasurer, Falling Illini Skydiving Club
I made my first jump with Archway back in 1989, I was on staff from '92-'95, and even after I had to move away from the area due to work, I continue to plan trips back to Archway as often as possible. Why? The people make the difference. I have never jumped with a more caring, fun-loving, professional and just plain fantastic group of folks anywhere else in the world. You will not find a finer dropzone anywhere. When I'm in the Midwest, I ONLY jump at Archway!
Steven "Casper" Sewell
Eagle River, Alaska
Archway Skydiving Centre opened for business in 1965. Originally owned and operated by Dave Verner, Archway began it's long history of skydiving training in Sparta, Illinois. In the early 1990's, Archway moved to Vandalia, Illinois - just an hour east of St. Louis.
In May, 1999, Jason Mark and Anita Wuertz formed a new corporation, and
operates Archway Skydiving from Vandalia, Illinois and carries on with the Archway traditions.
We average over 12,000 skydives per year and more than 1,200 students per year make their first jump with us.
Most of our instructors have over 1,000 jumps, some as much as 5,000. We are constantly updating our equipment and have the fastest turbine jump airplane in the area. Click on the links for more information regarding our airplanes and student gear.
Archway's history is rich with current world champions Kirk Verner and John Lemming from Arizona Airspeed getting their start and learning to skydive at Archway. In addition, freefall camera man, Sean Cappirecco from the Golden Knights began his skydiving career at Archway. Most recently, Joe Abeln, a graduate from Archway's training program was accepted with the Army's Golden Knights demonstration team.
One of the earliest episodes of MTV Road Rules was filmed here, with the cast making tandem skydives. Archway was the first to introduce square canopies for sport parachute jumping in the midwest. In addition, Archway was one of the first skydiving centers to use reserve equipment that mounted on your back, instead of the traditional military style "belly mount" reserve.
Much of the staff from the early days continues to skydive at Archway, along with many newer instructors. We are a proud group member of the United States Parachute Association (USPA), we adhere to their policies and safety guidelines, and all of our instructors are USPA rated.
Come check us out any weekend. We welcome spectators and will be happy to answer any questions that may arise. We believe that you'll find Archway most professional and friendly.
