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Hello DZOs, Pilots.... I am looking for existing financial management tools (i.e. software, spreadsheets, cost calculators, etc.) that are specifically designed for skydive aircraft operations. Can anyone offer a recommendation? Thank you.

I also sent you a PM with specific info, but you can try calling these folks: https://www.travelinsurancecenter.com/eng/information/cm_benefits.cfm?line=gbund_gab

I can highly recommend Skydance Skydiving in Davis, CA. Skydance is a USPA training center with excellent AFF instructors. They operate very well maintained aircraft. Students are treated with respect and are welcomed into the drop zone social life... but, in keeping with tradition, you will be buying some beer;)

I agree that flying with 5 skydivers would not be comfortable, safe, or legal in many of the low gross weight, under-powered Cessna 182's out there. However, adding a 5th skydiver to the load in a 300 HP wide-body C-182 with max gross weight of 3100 lbs can be accomplished within legal weight and balance limitations depending upon jumper weight, fuel load, density altitude, etc. For a DZO, the option to fly with a fifth jumper can help with the bottom line. However, if the load has two heavy tandems... fly without the fifth. If the load is a ladies' 4-way and fuel is light... then adding a camera flyer might be just fine. On a low-ceiling day or with a student load going to 3500'... five jumpers might work depending, of course, on weights and environmental conditions (and any "crunch" factor would only last about 5 minutes... until the first jumper is away). Manifest and the pilot would have to consider limitations of the aircraft for each load. From what I hear, there are numerous drop zones that operate C-182's with 5 + pilot. I am trying to find an operator with legal paperwork for that extra seat belt who is willing to share. Thanks!

So apparently there are a few C-182's out there with the authorization and seat belt installations to legally carry 5 skydivers... I would like to obtain a copy of such an approval to use as a template. If you are willing to share technical information, please PM me. Thank you...

Is anyone operating a Cessna 182 with FAA field approval to carry the pilot plus 5 skydivers?

Visit www.diverdriver.com, a website with some interesting info regarding various jump aircraft.