What is the AFF Program?

The Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program is a structured training method designed to teach students how to skydive solo. It involves a series of jumps where students are accompanied by one or two AFF Instructors who provide in-air coaching and assistance. The goal is to help students develop the skills needed to skydive independently and progress toward earning their USPA A license.

Prerequisites for the AFF Instructor Rating

To qualify for the AFF Instructor Rating, you must meet the following requirements:

1. USPA D License: You must hold a USPA D license or equivalent.

2. Minimum Jumps: You must have at least 500 jumps.

3. Coach Rating: You must hold a current USPA Coach Rating.

4. Experience: You must have experience in freefall photography (for certain roles, such as camera flyer).

5. Age: You must be at least 18 years old.

6. USPA Membership: You must have a current USPA membership.

7. Medical Requirements: You must provide a statement of good health from a physician.

8. Knowledge and Skills: You must demonstrate proficiency in skydiving skills and teaching methods.

AFF Instructor Course Overview

The AFF Instructor course is designed to train you in the skills and knowledge needed to teach students through the AFF program. Here’s what the course typically involves:

1. Ground Training

• Learn the USPA Integrated Student Program (ISP) and how to apply it in the AFF program.

• Study teaching methodologies and how to effectively communicate with students.

• Review safety procedures, emergency protocols, and risk management.

• Understand the psychology of teaching first-time skydivers and how to manage their fears and expectations.

2. Practical Training

• Practice teaching skydiving skills in a controlled environment, such as a wind tunnel or on the ground.

• Demonstrate proficiency in skydiving techniques, including freefall, canopy control, and emergency procedures.

• Conduct mock training sessions with experienced instructors acting as students.

3. Evaluation Jumps

• Perform evaluation jumps with a USPA Instructor Examiner (IE).

• Demonstrate the ability to teach and supervise students in real skydiving scenarios.

• Show proficiency in handling in-air emergencies and providing effective in-air coaching.

4. Written Exam

• Pass a written test covering USPA policies, teaching methods, and safety guidelines.

5. Certification

• Upon successful completion of the course, you’ll receive your USPA AFF Instructor Rating.

• You must maintain your rating by meeting ongoing requirements, such as continuing education and jump currency.

Key Skills Taught in the Course

• Teaching Methods: How to effectively teach skydiving skills to beginners.

• In-Air Coaching: How to provide real-time feedback and assistance during freefall.

• Emergency Procedures: How to handle malfunctions and other in-air emergencies.

• Canopy Control: How to teach students to fly and land their parachutes safely.

• Risk Management: How to assess and mitigate risks during training jumps.

Time and Cost

• Time: The course typically takes 1-2 weeks to complete, depending on the individual’s experience and the training program. Speak to us to today find the next course dates!

• Cost: The cost of the AFF Instructor course depends on factors such as drop zone and length of program. Speak to us today to find out more!