Certification Details

Certification creates opportunities ... like the one shown above.
Two seconds after exit from a Casa 212 over Carolina Skysports, NC
Photo by Allen Roulston

Certification Process

You will learn to skydive in the Progressive Free Fall program (PFF). Prior to entering this program you will participate in the Ground School (sometimes called the First Jump Course). You will also have satisfied one of the following requirements:

• A minimum of two satisfactory IAD jumps from 3,500 feet.  OR
• Two satisfactory tandem skydives from 11,000 feet. OR
• a combination of satisfactory IAD and tandem skydives.

The freefall training program consists of six (6) levels with instructors and a number of solo skydives. It is possible for a dedicated student to complete the program in as few as ten (10) jumps. This can be completed (potentially) in one weekend provided the weather is co-operative.  As you might expect, the freefall training program features a high level of dedicated one-on-one instruction to allow accelerated skill progression.

You will learn how to:

• perform a pilot briefing
• assess weather conditions and determine exit location
• direct the pilot to the exit point
• exit the aircraft (there are a number of methods available)
• altitude awareness
• achieve a stable freefall orientation
• maintain a heading (ie: face north and stay facing north)
• control freefall turns
• deploy your main parachute
• identify a malfunction
• perform emergency procedures and when to use them
• safe control of a ram air parachute
• land where you want to (accuracy)
• continue learning more advanced skills (self directed skill development)

I'm certain you have at least one question. You can reach us by e-mail at: aardvark@istar.ca