Skydiving is one of the most thrilling and extreme sports in the world. For many, it represents the ultimate test of courage and freedom as they jump out of an aircraft and plummet toward the Earth at high speeds. While traditional tandem skydiving allows beginners to experience the excitement of freefall with the guidance of an instructor, Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Skydiving is a more advanced form of skydiving that gives the skydiver greater control and independence.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Accelerated Freefall Skydiving, how it works, what it involves, and why it’s become the go-to training method for those serious about skydiving. Whether you’re considering getting your skydiving license or simply curious about the process, this guide will give you all the information you need to understand AFF skydiving.
What is Accelerated Freefall (AFF)?
Accelerated Freefall (AFF) is a skydiving training method that allows students to experience freefall after a minimal amount of ground training. Unlike traditional tandem skydiving, where a student is attached to an instructor during the jump, AFF gives students the freedom to jump alone with the guidance of two or more instructors in freefall.
The Basics of AFF Skydiving
In AFF, students learn the skills required to skydive safely while falling from an aircraft. It is called “accelerated” because the training is designed to help the student progress quickly through various stages to jump solo. The goal of AFF is to get the student to a point where they can skydive alone with confidence and control, while following safety procedures.
Before your first AFF jump, you’ll receive thorough ground training, where you’ll learn the basics of skydiving, including body position, how to deploy the parachute, and emergency procedures. The AFF course is divided into several levels, each building on the skills learned in the previous one.
How Does Accelerated Freefall Skydiving Work?
The AFF Jump Process
An AFF skydiving jump typically begins with the student boarding the aircraft along with two or more instructors. The instructors will accompany the student during the freefall, providing guidance and support. Here’s a step-by-step look at what happens during an AFF skydive:
Ground Training: Before jumping, you’ll receive a brief but intensive ground training session. This training typically lasts about 4-6 hours and covers essential topics like body position during freefall, how to deploy your parachute, how to deal with emergency situations, and how to land safely. You’ll also learn hand signals that your instructors will use to communicate with you during the jump.
Climbing to Altitude: Once you’re ready, you board the aircraft with your instructors. The aircraft climbs to the designated altitude, usually between 10,000 and 14,000 feet. This is where your jump will take place.
Exit the Aircraft: When you reach the correct altitude, you and your instructors prepare to exit the aircraft. The student will exit the plane first, followed by the instructors, who remain close to provide support.
Freefall: During the freefall, the student experiences the sensation of falling through the sky at speeds of around 120 mph (193 km/h). The instructors will help the student maintain proper body position and ensure they stay stable in the air. The student must also practice controlling their movements to maintain a stable fall.
Pulling the Parachute: After reaching a certain altitude (usually around 5,500 feet), the student must deploy the parachute. The student is trained to handle this on their own, but the instructors may assist if necessary. Once the parachute is deployed, the freefall ends, and the student will glide down toward the ground.
Landing: Once the parachute is open and stable, the student is responsible for navigating and landing safely. They will be trained in how to steer the parachute and how to prepare for a safe landing.
Why Choose Accelerated Freefall?
Faster Progression to Solo Skydiving
One of the primary reasons skydivers choose Accelerated Freefall over traditional tandem skydiving is the ability to progress quickly toward solo skydiving. Unlike tandem skydiving, where you are always attached to an instructor, AFF allows you to jump independently (with supervision) and gradually develop the skills needed for solo skydiving.
As you complete each level of the AFF course, you gain more confidence and expertise in freefall, parachute deployment, and landing. This method is ideal for those who are serious about learning how to skydive solo and wish to accelerate the training process.
Increased Independence and Confidence
While tandem skydiving is a great introduction to the sport, it doesn’t offer the level of independence that many skydivers desire. With AFF, you experience the thrill of freefall on your own terms, with instructors close by to guide and support you.
This independence boosts your confidence, as you are directly involved in the decision-making process of your skydive. By the time you complete your AFF training, you’ll have the skills to confidently jump solo and handle any situation that may arise during a skydive.
Comprehensive Safety Training
AFF provides comprehensive safety training, which is essential for those looking to become licensed skydivers. You’ll be trained in proper body position, parachute handling, emergency procedures, and how to deal with malfunctions. Because safety is a priority in AFF training, instructors are always there to monitor your jump and assist you when necessary.
What Are the Levels of AFF Skydiving?
The Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program is typically broken down into several levels. Each level focuses on different aspects of freefall and parachuting. As you progress through the levels, you become more independent and capable of completing jumps on your own.
Here’s a breakdown of the levels:
Level 1: First Jump
This is your introductory jump. After ground training, you will jump with two instructors, who will help you stay stable and provide guidance during the freefall. Your goal is to get comfortable with the freefall experience and practice your body position.
Level 2 and 3: Stability and Control
In these levels, you work on improving your body position and learning how to control your fall. You’ll jump with two instructors, who will assist you if necessary. You’ll also practice controlling your movements to ensure a stable and controlled freefall.
Level 4: Parachute Deployment Practice
Level 4 focuses on parachute deployment. You’ll practice deploying your parachute at a specific altitude and handle the procedures for opening and managing your parachute. At this stage, your instructors will be available to ensure you deploy safely, but you are responsible for the task.
Level 5: Solo Jump with Limited Supervision
By level 5, you’ll be ready to jump on your own with one instructor watching you from a distance. This jump is all about independence, and you will handle the freefall and parachute deployment on your own, with the instructor ready to assist in case of any problems.
Level 6 and Beyond: Final Preparations for Solo Skydiving
In the remaining levels, you continue to refine your skills and increase your confidence. By the end of the AFF program, you will be ready to make solo jumps and work toward achieving your skydiving license.
The Benefits of AFF Skydiving
1. Faster Learning Curve
Since the AFF program is designed to help students progress quickly, it allows them to experience freefall in a controlled and progressive manner. This structured approach helps students build the necessary skills for solo skydiving in a short amount of time.
2. Safe and Supported Learning
With experienced instructors by your side during the entire training process, you’re always supported. The guidance you receive throughout your AFF jumps ensures that you learn the proper techniques while minimizing the risks associated with skydiving.
3. Greater Flexibility and Freedom
AFF gives you more freedom than tandem skydiving. Instead of relying on an instructor, you’ll develop the ability to make decisions on your own and be in full control of your jump. This sense of autonomy is what makes AFF so appealing to those who are serious about skydiving.
Conclusion
If you’re serious about learning how to skydive solo and want to accelerate the process, Accelerated Freefall Skydiving is an excellent choice. With its fast-paced training and increased independence, it’s the ideal method for those who want to gain the necessary skills to safely skydive without relying on an instructor.
The AFF program is comprehensive, covering everything from freefall techniques to parachute handling, and it ensures that you have the knowledge and confidence to jump solo. Whether you’re aiming for a skydiving license or just looking for an intense learning experience, AFF provides the ultimate foundation for a lifetime of skydiving adventures.