A Skydive AFF (Accelerated Freefall) course

A Skydive AFF (Accelerated Freefall) course is an intensive, multi-level program to teach you to skydive solo, starting with extensive ground training and progressing through 8 jumps with instructors (two, then one), gradually releasing you in freefall to practice maneuvers like turns and flips before mastering solo flight and landing, ultimately leading to your first solo license after completing all stages and required consolidation jumps. It’s the fastest method to solo skydiving, involving high-altitude jumps from the first day and hands-on training for emergency procedures and canopy control.
This video provides an overview of the AFF course and the skills you’ll learn:
Course Structure & Progression
Ground School: Several hours of theory covering equipment, aircraft exit, body position, hand signals, and emergencies.
Level 1: First jump with two instructors for stability, altimeter checks, and canopy deployment.
Levels 2-3: More stability, altitude awareness, and the first solo release by instructors.
Levels 4-7: Focus on maneuvers like 90° & 360° turns, flips, and gaining confidence and control, often with one instructor.
Level 8: A “hop and pop” jump from lower altitude for emergency simulation.
Consolidation Jumps: After the main course, you’ll do 10 more jumps to practice without instructor assistance.
Key Features
Solo From Day One: You wear your own parachute and learn to handle it.
Instructor Support: Two instructors initially, then one, holding you and giving signals in freefall.
Video Analysis: Jumps are often recorded for detailed review and rapid improvement.
Radio Guidance: Instructors guide you to land via radio after canopy deployment.
You can watch this video to see what the AFF course looks like: