So, what is accelerated free fall (AFF)? It’s a method of skydiving training where you jump from a plane with instructors right from the get-go. You’ll experience freefall with their guidance, learn to control your body in the air, and then, eventually, you’ll progress to flying your canopy solo and debriefing after each jump.
The Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Program Explained
So, how does the AFF program work? Here’s what you can expect.
Initial Training and Jumps
The AFF course usually starts with ground school, where you’ll learn about the equipment you’ll be using, the safety procedures you’ll need to follow, and the body position you’ll need to maintain to stay safe.
During your first few jumps, instructors will be right there with you, providing guidance and assistance during freefall. These jumps take place from about 14,000 feet.
Progression Through Levels
As you master the skills taught at each level, you’ll advance to the next. Each level focuses on increasingly complex skills and objectives.
As you progress, your instructors will gradually reduce the amount of assistance they provide, so you’ll gain confidence and independence in freefall. You’ll be falling at speeds that can exceed 120 miles per hour, so it’s important to learn quickly!
What skills will I learn in AFF?
AFF courses teach you the basic skills you need to jump safely on your own. Here’s what you can expect to learn:
- Body position and stability: Keeping your body stable is critical for safety. You’ll learn how to correct any instability as you fall.
- Altitude awareness: You have to pay attention to your altitude so you know when to deploy your parachute. AFF courses teach you to use altimeters and other equipment to track your altitude.
- Parachute deployment: You’ll learn how to deploy your parachute safely and effectively, as well as what to do in an emergency.
- Canopy flight: You’ll learn how to control your parachute, practice landing patterns, and develop procedures for landing safely. Canopy flight usually lasts about five minutes.
Getting Your USPA A-License After AFF
Once you complete your AFF course, you’re well on your way to getting your USPA (United States Parachuting Association) A-License.
To get your license, you need to:
- Complete at least 25 jumps
- Complete your A-license proficiency card
- Become a USPA member
A USPA membership gives you insurance coverage, access to training resources, and shows that you follow important safety standards.
Expect to pay $98 for your USPA membership and $43 for your USPA license.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between accelerated freefall and tandem skydiving?
In tandem skydiving, you’re strapped to an experienced instructor. You experience freefall, but the instructor manages everything. Accelerated Freefall (AFF) is a training method where you jump with instructors initially, but the goal is to learn to skydive solo. You’re actively involved in controlling your descent from the start.
Why is free fall an accelerated motion?
Free fall is accelerated motion because gravity is constantly pulling you downwards. This force causes your velocity (speed in a specific direction) to increase continuously as you fall. Without air resistance, you’d accelerate at a constant rate of approximately 9.8 meters per second squared.
What is meant by the acceleration of free fall?
The acceleration of free fall refers to the rate at which an object’s velocity increases due to gravity. On Earth, this acceleration is roughly 9.8 m/s². This means that for every second an object is in free fall (ignoring air resistance), its downward speed increases by 9.8 meters per second.
What is the meaning of accelerated free fall?
Accelerated Free Fall (AFF) refers to a skydiving training method, not just any instance of freefall. It emphasizes rapid skill development through instructor-guided jumps. The “accelerated” part refers to the fast-paced learning curve compared to older, slower methods. You’re quickly progressed to solo jumps and canopy control.
In Summary
Accelerated Free Fall (AFF) training is a structured, relatively safe way to learn to skydive. But skydiving, even with the best AFF training, requires careful attention to detail and strict adherence to safety procedures. If you’re considering AFF, be sure to choose a reputable program and listen closely to your instructors.