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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is Skyline Ziplines?

Skyline Zipline is a professional zipline course builder. We design, engineer, install and operate world-class Ziplines, Challenge towers, Giants Swings, Suspension Bridges, and MegaZips.

How was Skyline founded?

Skyline was founded in Whistler, British Columbia, in 2007. Just after building and operating their first zipline on Cougar Mountain. From there, they began working on bigger, better, faster, and safer zipline products. Their attention to detail and drive for innovation have led them to the patented SkyTech system leading the industry’s standards while maximizing safety, thrills, and profits while minimizing annual costs.

How long can ziplines be?

Currently, the world record for the world's longest zipline is 2,831.88 meters in the UAE (United Arab Emirates). This zipline was opened and operating in 2018. The possibility for longer, safer ziplines is feasible with the correct location. With the best engineering and design, it is possible to make ziplines up to 3.5km long.

What is DOSH certified?

DOSH is the Department of Occupational Safety and Health. DOSH sets the global standard for many occupational health and safety standards. Adhering to the rules and guidelines in DOSH-certified products can minimize risk and maximize redundancy, ensuring the safest product possible. 

What kind of trolleys do you use and manufacture?

Skyline has developed three types of trolleys. With a new one in the development stages. We have developed the DOSH-approved skyTECH Rocket (Extreme Speed) Seated and Prone Design, the skyTECH Turbine, and the skyTECH M8 (Extreme Speed, Braking Trolley) Seated and Prone Design. Each trolly design comes with composite materials on all moving parts for a quieter, smoother ride, prolonging the life of cables by approximately 3 times.

Why would you use different diameter cables for different ziplines?

The use of different cable diameters is for varying strength-to-weight ratio requirements. Every zipline is unique and thus requires its own design and cable diameter. To ensure the safest zipline experience for both operators and guests, our engineer's design and perfect every zipline individually for each site.

What is a Mega Zipline?

A Mega Zipline is any zipline that ranges longer than 1 kilometer (0.6 Mile). These ziplines can allow riders to reach speeds of over 120km per hour, stretch great distances, and can be 500 feet above the ground. The features of a MegaZipline include the Skyline patented mega zipline system, with the skyTECH Launcher and the skyTECH Rocket to ensure maximum safety when operating these zip lines. 

What kind of braking systems do you use?

Skyline offers five braking products for a wide range of zipline operating needs.

 

The SkyTECH Spring Brake

-DOSH and ASTM approved

- For primary and secondary zipline braking

- Provides a smooth, secure stop from speeds above 80km/h

-Proven primary braking system for high-speed ziplines

The Sky TECH Spring Brake Crash Pad

-DOSH and ASTM approved

- Recommended as a primary, secondary, or AED brake

- Decreases the risk in abnormal or extreme operating conditions 

- Seamlessly interfaces with the skyTECH Spring Brake

Rotating Electro-Magnetic Brake

-Patented rotating Electro-Magnetic device developed for zero gravity simulators

-Intended to stop riders braking at speeds in excess of 120km/h

ZipStop

-Uses advanced magnetic braking technology

-Can stop riders going up 60km/ph

What kind of catch blocks does Skyline use?

Dependent on the zipline we use one of two catch systems. 

 

The skyTECH Catch Block

-Is a DOSH approved stopper

-High speed and big impact brake

-Pairs with skyTECH Rocket or Jet trolleys and the SkyTECH spring brake and/ or Zipstop

-Can increase cable lifespan up 500%

The skyTECH Catcher

-Works with the SkyTECH Turbine Trolleys, Petzl and Robertson trolley systems.

-Can catch trolleys approaching at speeds up to 100km/h

What is the difference between a spring braking system and an Electro-Magnetic braking system?

The difference between the spring braking system and the Electro-Magnetic braking system is the spring brake is an EAD (emergency arrest device). Where the Electro-Magnetic braking system can only be a primary stopper as it is not an EAD.

What is the throughput rate?

A throughput rate is how efficiently a zipline operator can put clients through their zipline or zipline tour. An increased throughput rate will increase profits due to the added volume of zipline riders going through the attraction.

How can you tell if a zipline venture will be profitable?

With a combination of 45 years of experience in the zipline industry, the employees at Skyline have seen the industry evolve. With all of the experience and knowledge gained over the years with the help of site discovery and a small amount of traffic analytics, we can predict the profitability and feasibility of a new zipline venture.

Do you have any environmental mandates?

Skyline has an environmental mandate to ensure our practices follow the most environmentally friendly protocols. In addition to the environmental mandate, a commitment to low-impact zipline installation is paramount to our operation. The preservation of the natural beauty of the lands surrounding the zipline installation is crucial. After all, the creation of ziplines was to experience the beauty of an area from a different perspective.

Why are Zipline Specific platforms beneficial?

Zipline-specific platforms are beneficial to zipline operations because of increased efficiency and capacity to maximize throughput. Putting ziplines on pre-existing platforms is possible but, before construction begins, our engineers must perform:

  • Structural force analysis

  • Rider velocities and kinetic forces

  • Studies on crosswinds, tailwinds, and headwinds

  • Cable specifications, tensions, and safety margins

  • Secondary braking and dampening calculations

  • Recommend trolleys, launchers, catch blocks, and harnesses

  • Site-specific operations and maintenance manuals

  • Throughput analysis

How do you contact Skyline Ziplines?

You can contact us by calling (604)-905-4149 or file a contact request form. Submit your first and last name, phone number, email, your company, and the specific details of your request, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How much do ziplines cost?

No two ziplines are the same. Every zipline site comes with its challenges, resources, and strengths. Without a site discovery, it is difficult to quote an accurate number. However, the price range is from $350’000 to $8’000’000 USD, dependent on the operator and site needs. 

Is there a cost per meter for ziplines?

No, there is not an exact cost per meter for ziplines. Each zipline is different. The design, engineering, installation, and infrastructure will differ for every zipline installation and operation.

How much does your equipment cost?

Skyline technology and zip equipment vary in cost from product to product. Skyline's equipment is on the more expensive side. However, our products are high-quality. They increase cable life and last 2 to 3 times longer than the competitor's products saving you money year over year.

What markets does Skyline meet?

Skyline meets a wide variety of market needs and resources. Skyline services the adventure, eco, and entertainment tourism sectors, providing top-quality profitable products for these markets. Ski resorts, amusement and water parks, zoos, family entertainment centers, resorts, cruise lines, and many others use services provided by Skyline.

Do you offer joint ventures?

We not only supply design, engineering, technology, construction, training, and inspection support. We can take part in the financing and theming of our zipline operations. Skyline often takes an ownership position and supplies financing, marketing, and operational support. Having Skyline as a partner guarantees success with enhanced operational oversight and support.

Do you supply insurance with the zipline installation?

We do not offer an insurance policy for our zipline customers upon the completion of the installation. The operator must acquire their own operating insurance policy and must name Skyline in a release of liability for the remainder of the venture, indemnifying Skyline Zipline from any liability. Most insurers will give a discount on fully engineered Skyline sites, giving a lower annual policy due to Skyline’s previous track record.

How long does it take to build a zipline?

Zipline builds can take a range of time, depending on the qualities and vastness of the project. From site discovery to the finished product, a zipline installation will take a minimum of 6 months to build. Often builds take longer and can take up to 2.5 years. When site discovery and design, are complete, a build time estimate is calculated then added to the zipline business plan.

Do you offer maintenance intervals and service?

Skyline offers annual inspections and recommendations on requirements to continue a safe and profitable business practice. It is up to the operator to complete these recommendations and adhere to the safety protocols.

Does Skyline offer zipline safety inspections?

Skyline offers commercial zipline inspections. Annual zipline course inspections are paramount for safety. Skyline conducts ACCT accredited safety inspections to determine site safety. The skyline inspection service includes:

  • Hands-on inspections of EVERY Course Element

  • Inspection of documentation material

  • Inspection of all equipment 

  • Safety equipment inventory

  • Written course inspection report

What is Safe Launch?

The skyTECH Safe Launch is a system that eliminates operator error through several built-in redundancy systems utilizing RFID scanners, locking gates, elaunchers, as well as guide confirmations before launch, eliminating operator error up to 99.78%.

Can you use Petzl and Robertson trolly’s with SkyTECH braking systems?

Both Petzl and Robertson trolleys are compatible with the skyTECH catcher. The skyTECH Spring Brake and Spring Brake Crash Pad are compatible with all Robertson and Petzl catchers and trolleys.

What is Zipstop

Zipstop is an electromagnetic braking system that can only be used as a primary stopper for ziplines up to 55 mph. Skyline occasionally uses these products on different sites. 

What products do you distribute?

Skyline distributes all Head Rush Tech products, skyTECH, and Petzl products.

How do you build a zipline?

To build a zipline there are seven steps. 

  • Site Discovery

  • Site Design

  • Engineering

  • Fabrication

  • Construction and Installation

  • Training, Support, and Operations

  • Safety Inspections

Each step is important, and many protocols are in place to ensure a zipline build results in a safe, profitable, and exciting zipline.

How do you design a zipline?

Zipline design is a complicated process. Site discovery plays an important role in assessing the feasibility and profitability of the project. Having a business plan, budget goals, and profit margin target for the business, is a primary concern. Then on the ground blending the zipline seamlessly into the natural habitat to capture geographical highlights of the area and exceed industry safety standards. All while giving flyers an overwhelming experience of intense adrenaline. This is what's needed to start a zipline design.

What slope should a zipline have?

The ideal slope angle for an exciting and safe zipline is dependent on the length. For 300-600m 8-10%, 700-1200m 12 to14%,1200-1800m 16-18%, anything over 1800m 18-20%.

What are the key design features of a zipline?

The key features in skyline zipline design are small tower footprint, skyTECH braking systems, and safe Launch. To learn more about these design features you can check out our article on five zipline design features.

Where have you built zip lines before?

Skyline has built on over 60 sites worldwide! To learn about each of the locations we have designed, engineered, installed, and constructed ziplines check out out our portfolio.

What is a Sky Surfer?

Skysurfer is a multi-vector system that allows flyers to go around corners, up and down, hills. The start and termination points are at the same place, eliminating transportation costs and cutting staffing costs in half.

What is a D ring attachment?

A D ring attachment is an essential piece of a harness. The D ring gets its name from its D shape. The D ring acts as an anchor on a harness to prevent falling with a rope or a cord. The D ring often is fastened either in the middle of the back or the hip area.

What kind of harnesses does Skyline offer?

We offer three zipline harnesses, two upright and one prone flying option. We have the DOSH-approved skyTECH Twin Harness, the skyTECH Single-Point Harness, and the skyTech Prone (Superman) Harness. Each works well with different zipline designs. So we can fit the needs of each client, for the best ziplining experience.

How did Skyline Ziplines get DOSH approval on your system?

We successfully got our patented zipline system approved through the DOSH approval and authorization process on our entire zipline system. At the Sandiego Zoo, our patented zipline system went through the DOSH approval process and successfully adhered to all DOSH guidelines for the site. The safety of our ziplines is of the highest importance to us here at Skyline. 

What is site discovery?

Site discovery is the process of assessing, envisioning, and developing an operator's dream of a zipline. Every zipline site is different in itself. There can be barriers or hurdles to get over when planning the build of a zipline. Site discovery will help determine the feasibility, profitability, and logistics of a new zipline operation.

What is ACCT?

The ACCT is the Association for Challenge Course Technology. The ACCT's dedication is to set standards, government relations, credentialing, and professional development and advancement of the members of the ACCT.

What is ASTM?

ASTM is an acronym for the American Society for Testing and Materials. The ASTM is an international standards organization that develops and publishes technical standards for many materials, products, systems, and services.

Are Skyline Ziplines ASTM and ACCT accredited?

Yes, all Skyline Ziplines are ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) and, ACCT (Association for Challenge Course Technology) accredited. Skyline ensures and achieves the highest safety standards for the safest, most enjoyable ziplining experience.

Where do you build ziplines?

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Where can you build ziplines?

With Skyline’s site discovery and the correct infrastructure, you can build a zipline almost anywhere. If there is enough elevation drop and safe take-off and landing points, you can create the next big attraction at your resort, summer camp, or tourist attraction.

How long are the ziplines you can make?

Skyline ziplines can design, engineer, and build ziplines in a wide array of sizes and heights. Each location and zipline site comes with its challenges and opportunities. Let us know your desired distance, speed, and area, and we can evaluate the feasibility and how to engineer and design the zipline site.

Can I come to the Skyline office for a meeting?

The majority of our clients are international, so we regularly conduct meetings over the phone or video calls. However, if you are in the area, you are more than welcome to organize an in-person meeting at our headquarters in Pemberton. If you are interested in setting up a meeting, please call us at (604)-905-4149 or submit a contact request.

How many ziplines has Skyline built?

Skyline has installed over 500 000’ of cable across the globe. With 63 separate site installations.

Where is Skyline Ziplines Located?

Skyline Ziplines headquarters location is 30 minutes north of Whistler, in Pemberton, British Columbia. The SkyTech machine shop was built on the same premises for a refined process from engineering to manufacturing. We do all of our fabricating and production of all our hard goods here in our environmentally conscious machine shop and offices.

How long has Skyline been building Ziplines?

Skyline engineered, designed, and built its first zipline in 2005. The first zipline installation took place in the resort municipality of Whistler. In the following 17 years, Skyline has engineered and installed over 50 ziplines and 14 MegaZiplines worldwide.