FAQs about Skydiving AFF School
Skydiving Training - Questions and Answers
A comprehensive database of questions and answers where you can find all information related to skydiving school, parachute courses, and skydiving training. We would appreciate it if you could send us suggestions for questions you might not have found answers to, to make this knowledge base even better.
What type of training method do you use?
Skydive Croatia currently trains with both methods, the Static Line or traditional training method (Jump on a line), and AFF (Accelerated Freefall) conducted in accordance with the rules and guidelines of USPA.
What is the difference between Static Line and AFF training methods?
Static Line (SL) and Accelerated Freefall (AFF) represent two different approaches to skydiving training. In the SL method, the parachute automatically opens after exiting the aircraft using a line. Free fall and independence in parachute opening are achieved after several jumps.
On the other hand, AFF method allows free fall (30-60 seconds) from the first jump. Participants deploy their own parachute and gradually develop independence throughout the detailed and intensive training.
While SL training has less intensity in the early jumps, AFF training quickly develops independence with thorough theoretical training and longer free fall from the beginning. The difference in cost also results from the complexity of training. The choice between these two methods depends on individual preferences and the desires of the participants. Both methods provide an unforgettable skydiving experience.
How long does the training take?
In Static Line (SL) training, the theoretical and practical parts last for 4-5 days, approximately 3-4 hours per day, depending on the pace and the number of candidates in a skydiving course. After the theoretical and practical parts, the first jump is executed.
In AFF training, around 4-6 hours are spent on the A theoretical part, and participants go for their first jump on the same day. Before moving on to each subsequent category, there is theoretical training for progression in that category. The entire training can be completed in 7-10 days.
Do I perform the first jump with an instructor or independently?
In skydiving training, the first jump is performed independently. In Static Line training, the jump is made from 1000 meters, and the parachute is activated by a line. In AFF training, the jump is made from 3000-4000 meters, and two AFF instructors accompany the student to ensure safety.
Do I have to make the first jump alone, or can I skydive with a skydiving instructor?
You can make your first jump in tandem with our instructor. A tandem jump allows you to experience the feeling of jumping from an airplane without worrying about the procedures that accompany solo skydives.
Are there conditions to meet for enrolling in skydiving training?
There are specific conditions for enrolling in skydiving school
1. Medical examination
In Croatia, the current regulations on skydiving stipulate that all individuals engaging in skydiving must possess a valid medical certificate for skydiving. Before enrolling in the Skydiving School, candidates must undergo a medical examination for skydiving. You can find a list of recommended institutions for this examination at this link – Procedure for conducting a medical examination for skydiving.
2. Age limits
Individuals older than 18 years, who meet the other conditions listed in this text, can enroll in the Skydiving School at Skydive Croatia. Additionally, individuals aged 16 and above can enroll in the skydiving school with the signature and consent of their parents or legal guardians. There is no upper age limit, but it depends on the psycho-physical capabilities of the candidate.
3. Weight
Due to safety regulations regarding skydiving equipment used in skydiving training, the upper weight limit for candidates is 100 kg. The body mass index is also taken into account.
Locations for classes or training
Theoretical and practical classes take place in Zagreb, in facilities provided by our organization. If there is a sufficient number of candidates, classes can also be organized in other cities if possible. Please contact us for information on organizing skydiving courses outside Zagreb.
Skydiving jumps are conducted at several locations in Croatia, most commonly in Zagreb, but it can also be organized in Čakovec, Grobnik, Varaždin, or other suitable locations. Additionally, training jumps can be organized in Slovenia in Ljubljana, Maribor, or Ptuj.
Part of the experience for new skydivers is to jump at different locations and from different aircraft, preparing them for the world of skydiving that can take them all over the globe.
Number of sessions per year
We conduct courses whenever there is interest, and training can be done for a single participant if necessary.
Cost of skydiving school
The prices for skydiving training and what is included can be checked in our price list, which is available at this link: Skydiving School Price.
Obtaining a skydiver license
No, after our basic training, you continue with jumps and acquiring new techniques and knowledge. After fulfilling all the conditions for obtaining an A skydiver license, you take the exam for the A license issued by CCAA or USPA.
Conditions for obtaining a skydiver license
For AFF skydiving training, the USPA Integrated Student Program (ISP) is followed, leading students through eight proficiency categories (A-H) to qualify for their USPA A license.
Each student completes a series of mandatory skills and knowledge sets during the prescribed training jumps in each category. At the end of each category, the student achieves specific skills and knowledge in any training discipline. The number of jumps required for each category is defined and depends on the student's performance.
The conditions for obtaining the USPA A license are:
- Complete 25 freefall jumps
- Fulfill all requirements listed on the USPA A License Proficiency Card
- Perform five freefall jumps with a group of at least two participants
- Receive a signature and official stamp on the "USPA A License Proficiency Card" or "USPA A License Progression Card (ISP)"
- Pass USPA written and oral exams for the A license conducted by the current USPA instructor, USPA examiner, S&TA, or a member of the USPA board. Note: The USPA headquarters will accept any completed card signed by a USPA instructor without an official stamp. The registration fee must be included.
Timeframe from first jump to obtaining s skydiver license
The time it takes for a candidate to meet the requirements for the A category skydiver license depends on the candidate's commitment and effort. It is not uncommon to see candidates complete the entire skydiving school and qualification requirements in 7-10 days.
Categories of skydiver licenses
In Croatia and according to USPA rules, a person can obtain a skydiver license in categories A, B, C, or D. D is the highest category of the license, each carrying greater privileges and permissions.
Cost of a skydive after obtaining a skydiving license
Prices vary from location to location and depend on the jump height. On average, prices for jumps from 1000 meters are between 20-30€, and jumps from 3000-4000 meters range from 35-45€.
When to buy your own parachute
After obtaining the A category and ensuring that skydiving is the sport you want to pursue, you can start thinking about purchasing or acquiring your own parachute.
Cost of a parachute
There are many different models and manufacturers of skydiving equipment offered at various prices. The condition of the equipment (new, used, well-maintained, production year, etc.) will also affect the price. Skydive Croatia is a representative of several skydiving brands and will assist you in choosing the right equipment for you. Taking all factors into account, a complete parachute system can be found starting from 1000 euros for used and well-used parachutes up to 5000 euros for new or top-condition parachutes. Tandem parachutes are generally much more expensive than parachutes for individual skydivers.
Can I jump with a wingsuit after obtaining a license?
No. To jump with Wingsuits, you must possess a C category skydiver license.
Can I perform tandem jumps with friends with an A license?
No. To use a tandem parachute and be able to perform tandem jumps, you must hold Tandem Pilot credentials or tandem instructor credentials. You can check the requirements for obtaining Tandem Pilot credentials in the skydiving regulations.
Are there skydiving competitions?
Yes, there are many disciplines of skydiving competition globally.
When can I qualify as a skydiving instructor?
Before starting training to obtain credentials as a skydiving instructor and AFF skydiving instructor, the skydiver must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Possess a valid D category license for at least 12 months
- Achieve at least 200 jumps with a delay longer than 30 seconds
- Achieve at least 50 jumps with a delay longer than 45 seconds
- Achieve at least 30 jumps with a delay longer than 60 seconds
- Perform at least 20 out-of-drop zone jumps
- Perform at least 2 night jumps
Additionally, before starting training to obtain AFF skydiving instructor credentials, the skydiver must:
- Achieve at least 5 hours of freefall
- Achieve a score of at least 10 points in one jump in a group of four skydivers or 8 points in one jump in a group of eight skydivers, following FAI rules for the discipline of formation skydiving (FS).
The candidate for obtaining skydiving instructor credentials and AFF skydiving instructor credentials must:
- Complete theoretical and practical training according to the training program
- Pass a practical proficiency check to obtain credentials.
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Where can I find literature used in skydiving training?
Training materials for skydiving courses can be found on the uspa.org web site. Look for Skydiver's Information Manual (SIM)
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