Frequently Asked Questions
and answersAccelerated Free Fall (AFF)
How long will it take for me to get a license?
It can take from as little as several weeks to several months, depending on how often you skydive.
What is the First Jump Course?
The First Jump Course (FJC) is a course of instruction that will last several hours. You will learn about equipment, procedures, free fall, canopy flight, and how to safely land your parachute.
Will I jump the same day that I take the FJC?
We always want to have students make their first AFF skydive the same day as their FJC, but this will depend on weather and time until sunset.
What should I wear to make an AFF jump?
Sneakers and comfortable clothing for the weather of the day.
Do tandem jumps count toward my 25 jumps needed for my A license?
Yes, they do count toward the minimum of 25 jumps required by the USPA.
What is the USPA?
The United States Parachute Association. See USPA.org for more information.
Skydiving
What happens if the parachute does not open?
Although it is unlikely that your main parachute will fail to open properly, it does sometimes occur and this a common question. According to federal law, every jumper must be equipped with a main and reserve parachute. In addition, all Jump TN equipment are equipped with an Automatic Activation Device (AAD), which will automatically open the reserve parachute should the jumpers be unable to.
What kind of parachute will we use?
The parachutes used today bear little resemblance to the classic round parachutes of years past. Today, nearly all jumpers use “ram-air” parachutes. these are rectangular in shape and, when open, act like an airplane wing. They are more like gliders than umbrellas. The aerodynamics of the parachute provides it with exceptional maneuverability, allowing the jumper to land almost anywhere he/she wishes. This wing shape is also what makes the tiptoe soft landings possible.
What if I love and want to continue skydiving?
You can sign up for Accelerated Free Fall (AFF) training on the same day as your tandem to reserve your spot in the next class.
What is the landing like?
Most landings are quite soft, with most people doing a soft sliding sit-down landing. Under certain conditions and at the discretion of the instructor, some people make a gentle stand-up landing.
How fast do you fall?
The average human body falls approximately 120 miles per hour.
How long does the skydive last?
Up to 45 seconds in free fall and about 4 – 5 minutes under your parachute.
What will the skydive feel like?
The sensation of free fall is more like flying than falling, and is intensely exciting and liberating. The parachute descent is peaceful and relaxing.
Is skydiving safe?
Skydiving is like any other extreme sport: there are inherent risks that require careful training and execution. Failure to follow that training can lead to serious injury or death. Skydiving is as safe as the individual(s) make it. The equipment has improved considerably over the old-style round parachute and is so reliable that, when used properly, skydiving can be as safe or safer than any other extreme sport.