AFF/Tandem program was instituted in 1982 as an "accelerated" learning process as compared to the traditional Static line progression. If you want to be on the FAST TRACK to becoming a skydiver this is what you’re looking for.
After participating in a first jump ground school lasting 4 to 6 hours you may be asked to do a Static line jump familiarize yourself with skydiving before your first Accelerated Freefall (AFF) jump. On your first AFF jump you exit from the airplane with two USPA AFF Instructors. They free fall together for up to 50 seconds depending on the jump altitude, usually about 11,500 feet. On your first jumps the instructor maintain a grip on your harness and give you in-air instruction via hand signals and assist with stability when necessary. You will open the parachute around 4,500 feet and another instructor on the ground will assist you in piloting the parachute via verbal guidance via a radio mounted in your helmet. Plan on spending the entire day at the parachute center for your training and jump.
AFF training and jumps require a great deal more support from the staff than the other methods and is priced accordingly. All training and your first jumps usually occur the same day.
Normally it takes about 7 to 8 weeks (25-30 jumps) for the dedicated Static line student to complete the requirements for their 'A' license. Note: A couple of folks have completed the entire 25-jump course in 4 days.
- Age – Everyone must be at least 18 years old the day of their jump
- Weight Restrictions – a maximum weight limit of 230# is strictly enforced. More detailed information about why weight restrictions are necessary.
- Clothing –
- Foot wear - If you own a pair of combat boots or something similar for ankle protection please bring them. Tennis shoes are fine if you don't have combat boots. No sandals T-shirt and shorts for warm weather.
- Sweat shirts, jeans and gloves for cooler weather. (more information below).
- Personal Items - Remove all jewelry and empty your pockets for your practical training and jumps. No watches, bracelets, necklaces or body jewelry, please leave them in your car or with a friend.
- Weather – Static line classes (first jump school) will be held rain or shine (no rain checks for the first jump ground school)! The weather is what the weather is, we can't predict what the weather will be when it's time for you to jump. You can't jump if you are not at the skydiving. Often weather can clear by the afternoon when class is completed. Here is a link to the weather forecast we find most useful.
Time – If you are scheduled for your first jump school and jumps, be at the parachute center at 9:30 EST. Plan to be at the parachute center from 9:30AM to dusk.- Cancellation – In the event you are unable to come out at the date and time you have scheduled we would very much appreciate it if you would give us a call and let us know as soon as you can. We like to skydive too.
