## How Long Does It Take to Get Certified in Skydiving?
Introduction
Skydiving is an exhilarating and awe-inspiring experience that can leave an unforgettable mark on anyone who attempts it. If you’re considering taking the plunge into this incredible sport, you may be wondering how long it takes to become a certified skydiver. In this article, we’ll explore the various paths you can take to get certified and provide an approximate timeline for each option.
Prerequisites
Before embarking on your skydiving certification journey, you’ll need to meet the following prerequisites:
Be at least 18 years of age
Be in good physical and mental health
Have no major medical conditions
Be able to follow instructions and make quick decisions
Certification Paths
There are two main paths to skydiving certification:
1. Accelerated Freefall (AFF)
This is the most common and accelerated method of skydiving certification. It involves:
Ground Training: 6-8 hours of classroom and on-the-ground instruction on safety, freefall techniques, and gear operation.
Tandem Jump: A jump with a licensed skydiving instructor attached to you for guidance and support.
Solo Jumps: Multiple solo jumps under the supervision of an instructor, gradually increasing in altitude and complexity.
Total Time to Certification: Approximately 2-3 days (depending on how quickly you progress)
2. Static Line Jumps
This traditional method of skydiving certification involves:
Ground Training: Similar to AFF, with an additional focus on static line procedures.
Static Line Jumps: Jumping from a plane at low altitude (3,500-5,000 feet) with a static line attached to the aircraft, which automatically deploys your parachute.
Freefall Jumps: Once you have mastered static line jumps, you can transition to freefall jumps under instructor supervision.
Total Time to Certification: Approximately 3-4 days (depending on weather conditions and scheduling)
Additional Training
Once you have obtained your skydiving certification, you may want to pursue additional training, such as:
Canopy Control: Learning advanced canopy piloting techniques to control your descent and landing.
Formation Skydiving: Jumping with a group of skydivers in coordinated formations.
Wing Suit Skydiving: Flying through the air in a specially designed wing suit that allows for increased speed and maneuverability.
Summary
The time it takes to get certified in skydiving varies depending on your chosen path and individual progress. Here’s a brief summary of the timelines:
Accelerated Freefall (AFF): 2-3 days
Static Line Jumps: 3-4 days
After certification, additional training can take anywhere from a few hours to several days or months, depending on the level of skill and experience you wish to attain.
Conclusion
Skydiving is an incredibly rewarding sport that offers a unique blend of thrill, adventure, and personal growth. Whether you choose the accelerated AFF path or the more traditional static line method, be prepared for an unforgettable journey that will leave you with a lifetime of memories.