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Choose Your Path to the Sky: Accelerated Freefall or Static Line

Accelerated Freefall (AFF)

Fast-track your skydiving journey with our renowned Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program. This intensive training method is designed for those who want to experience the thrill of freefall from their very first jump. You'll receive one-on-one instruction from two highly experienced AFF instructors on your initial jumps, ensuring a safe, controlled, and incredibly exhilarating introduction to the sport. The AFF program at SkyDive USA is a comprehensive seven-level course, each level building upon the last, progressively teaching you all the necessary skills to become a competent and confident solo skydiver.

From stable body positions in freefall to altitude awareness, canopy control, and safe landings, our structured curriculum covers every aspect. You'll gain invaluable hands-on experience under direct supervision, allowing you to master complex maneuvers and develop the instincts required for safe skydiving. The AFF program is not just about jumping; it's about building a solid foundation for a lifelong passion.

Enroll in AFF
Two skydivers in freefall, one instructor guiding a student, signifying Accelerated Freefall training.
A skydiver deploying a parachute via static line, with the aircraft visible above, demonstrating Static Line Progression.

Static Line Progression

For those who prefer a more gradual introduction to skydiving, our Static Line Progression program offers an excellent starting point. This method focuses on developing your canopy control and landing skills right from your first jump. With a static line deployment, your parachute opens automatically as you exit the aircraft, allowing you to concentrate solely on the experience of flight under canopy and precise landing techniques.

The Static Line program is perfect for building confidence step-by-step. You'll begin with comprehensive ground training, followed by your first jump where the automatic deployment ensures a smooth transition from aircraft to canopy flight. As you progress, you'll gradually introduce freefall elements, eventually leading to full freefall jumps. This method emphasizes safety, precision, and a thorough understanding of parachute flight before moving into the dynamics of freefall.

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Detailed Curriculum: What to Expect

Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Curriculum

The AFF program is meticulously structured to transform you into a skilled skydiver. Each stage is designed to introduce new skills and build upon previous knowledge, ensuring a thorough and safe learning experience.

  • Comprehensive Ground School: Your journey begins with an intensive 6-8 hour ground school session. This covers parachute theory, aircraft procedures, freefall body positions, emergency procedures, canopy control, and landing techniques. Safety is paramount, and this foundational knowledge is critical.
  • 7 Levels with Specific Freefall Objectives:
    • Levels 1-3 (Instructor Assisted): You'll exit the plane with two instructors holding onto you, providing direct assistance and feedback on body position, altitude awareness, and parachute deployment.
    • Levels 4-7 (Instructor Proximity): As you gain confidence, one instructor will accompany you, and you'll learn advanced maneuvers like turns, forward movement, and controlled freefall. You'll practice deploying your own parachute and managing various scenarios.
  • Coach Jumps: After completing the core AFF levels, you'll perform coach jumps with a certified coach. These jumps focus on refining specific skills, preparing you for solo skydiving.
  • Solo Jumps: Once deemed proficient by your instructors, you'll make your first solo freefall jumps, applying all the skills you've learned independently.
  • Canopy Skills Development: Throughout the program, significant emphasis is placed on precision canopy control, landing patterns, and safe landing techniques.

Upon successful completion of all AFF levels and required solo jumps, you'll be well on your way to earning your USPA 'A' license, allowing you to jump independently at most dropzones worldwide!

Static Line Progression Curriculum

The Static Line Progression is a methodical approach to skydiving, prioritizing canopy control and a gentle introduction to the air. It's an excellent option for those who prefer a more controlled initial experience.

  • Comprehensive Ground School: Similar to AFF, the program starts with thorough ground training, covering parachute systems, aircraft safety, exit procedures, canopy flight principles, and landing patterns.
  • First Jump with Static Line Deployment: Your first jump involves exiting the aircraft at a lower altitude (typically 3,500 feet), where a static line automatically deploys your main parachute. Your focus will be entirely on a stable exit and piloting your canopy to a safe landing with radio assistance from ground crew.
  • Progressive Freefall and Canopy Control Drills:
    • Canopy Focus: Initial jumps are dedicated to mastering canopy control, learning to navigate, and executing precise landings.
    • Controlled Freefall Introduction: As you gain experience and confidence, you'll gradually introduce short freefall delays, eventually leading to longer freefall durations under instructor supervision.
    • Advanced Maneuvers: You'll learn to perform basic freefall maneuvers and develop better body awareness before transitioning to full freefall.
  • Radio Communications & Landing Guidance: Throughout your static line training, you'll receive real-time radio guidance from experienced instructors on the ground, helping you refine your canopy piloting skills.

This program builds a strong foundation in canopy skills and air awareness, preparing you for the exhilarating world of freefall at your own pace.

General Requirements for All Programs:

  • Age Requirement: All students must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Physical Health: Participants must be in good physical health and able to participate in strenuous activity. A medical questionnaire is required, and a doctor's note may be necessary in some cases.
  • Weight Limit: A maximum weight limit typically applies for safety reasons (e.g., 220-240 lbs, depending on height and fitness). Please inquire for specific limits.
  • Commitment: A willingness to learn, listen to instructions, and adhere to strict safety protocols is essential.

Course Investment: Pricing for Your Skydiving Education

Investing in your skydiving education is investing in an unparalleled adventure and a lifelong skill. Our programs are competitively priced to provide you with the best training and value.

Full Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Package

$2,500

This comprehensive package includes all 7 levels of AFF instruction, ground school, all required jumps, and gear rental for the entire course. It's designed to take you from a complete beginner to a confident skydiver ready for solo jumps.

  • Complete Ground School
  • 7 AFF Instructor-Assisted Jumps
  • All necessary gear rental (parachute, altimeter, helmet, jumpsuit)
  • Logbook and USPA registration assistance
  • Personalized coaching and feedback
Book AFF Course

Complete Static Line Course

$1,200

Our Static Line Course provides a foundational introduction to skydiving, focusing on canopy control and safe landings. This package includes ground school, your initial static line jumps, and all required gear.

  • Complete Ground School
  • First Static Line Jumps with radio guidance
  • All necessary gear rental (parachute, altimeter, helmet, jumpsuit)
  • Progressive training towards freefall introduction
  • Expert instruction focused on canopy mastery
Book Static Line Course

Important Notes on Pricing:

  • Individual Jump Prices: Should you need additional jumps beyond the package (e.g., if a level needs to be repeated), individual jump prices and coaching fees apply. Please inquire at the dropzone for current rates.
  • Gear Rental: Gear rental is included in the course packages. For licensed skydivers or those requiring gear outside of package inclusions, rental is available on a daily or per-jump basis.
  • USPA Membership: A current USPA (United States Parachute Association) membership is required for all student and licensed skydivers. This is typically an annual fee paid directly to USPA.
  • Booking Deposits: A non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot in any of our training programs.
  • Weather Dependent: Skydiving is highly weather-dependent. While we strive to complete training efficiently, delays may occur. Your safety is our top priority.

Contact us today to discuss your training options and payment plans!

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Meet Your AFF & Static Line Instructors

Our team of dedicated and highly experienced instructors is passionate about teaching and committed to your safety and success. They bring years of experience and thousands of jumps to your training.

Portrait of experienced skydiving instructor John Davis

John Davis

USPA AFF Instructor Examiner, D-License Holder

John has been skydiving for over 25 years and has accumulated more than 10,000 jumps. He is a USPA Instructor Examiner, meaning he not only teaches students but also certifies new instructors. His calm demeanor and meticulous attention to detail make him an exceptional teacher. John specializes in early AFF levels, helping students build a strong foundation in freefall.

Specialty: AFF Levels 1-3, Emergency Procedures

Portrait of skydiving instructor Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen

USPA Static Line Instructor, Coach, C-License Holder

Sarah discovered skydiving through the static line program and has since become a passionate advocate and instructor for it. With over 3,000 jumps, she excels at teaching canopy control, landing accuracy, and the fundamentals of progressive freefall. Her encouraging approach helps students feel comfortable and confident as they transition from static line to freefall. Sarah is also an expert canopy coach, helping advanced students refine their landing skills.

Specialty: Static Line & Canopy Coaching, Advanced Landing Techniques

All our instructors are USPA-rated and undergo continuous training to ensure the highest standards of safety and instruction. You're in experienced hands at SkyDive USA!

Learn More About Our Team

Learning to Skydive: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about our skydiving training programs. If you don't find your answer here, please don't hesitate to contact us!

Still have questions about learning to skydive? We're here to help!

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