In order to become a licensed skydiver, there are three approved methods of training. These are the ‘tandem jump’, the ‘static jump’ and the
‘Accelerated Free Fall’
Following is an explanation of these three methods:
Tandem Jump
• The tandem jump is considered to be the easiest
and the quickest method to get into the air.
• The ground training typically lasts for about 30 minutes.
• After this, you are required to jump out of an
airplane. Do not worry! It will be a bit scary in the beginning but you will be safely strapped to the chest of a professional Tandem Instructor. So, nothing is going to
happen to you!
• You will be moved to the next level after completion of the approved First Jump Course (ground school).
• However, to qualify for the
static line and the accelerated free fall jumps, you should meet the physical or proficiency requirements.
• If you rely on tandem instructor's skills, it is still
possible to experience the extreme thrill of skydiving.
Static Line skydiving
• Initially, Static line skydiving was used by the military as a safety measure
for paratroopers.
• It can be used for instant deployment of parachutes at a relatively low altitude of about 2000 – 3000 feet.
• In this kind of training, a
specially designed cord will be attached to the plane and to your parachute at the same time. The moment you will step away from the plane, the cord will immediately
deploy the parachute for you. Sounds simple!
• Next, you will be asked to demonstrate mock-pulls of a dummy ripcord.
• After three of these jumps,
you will qualify for your first ‘free fall’.
Accelerated Free Fall (AFF)
• This is the method in which you can experience the actual thrill of
skydiving.
• However, this method is a bit expensive as in this kind of training, you will have two instructors jumping with you. During the free fall, the
instructors will maintain hands-on contact at all times.
• After a few jumps, you will have to do it on your own with a single instructor giving advice and
training.
• This method can get you a license a bit faster.
