Learn to Skydive

So you did a Tandem Skydive and are ready to step up your game. Now what?

Here’s how it works…

1. Tandem Skydives

Complete one tandem skydive

2. First Jump Course

3. AFF

Accelerated Free Fall a series of jumps done with instructors

4. Coach Jumps

Solo jumps with coaches monitoring each jump

5. A license

You’re now a USPA licensed skydiver!

First Jump Course

FJC is held monthly. Please check our event details page for more information.

What is Accelerated Freefall (AFF)?

So you did a Tandem Skydive and are ready to step up your game. Now what?

Accelerated Freefall (AFF) at Virginia Skydiving Center offers the opportunity for anyone to learn to skydive… by yourself, on your very first jump!

You will jump from an airplane flying 13,500 feet above the ground, freefall through the air at 120 MPH for almost 60 seconds and deploy your own parachute. You will then float gently under the parachute for approximately 5 minutes, and glide to the landing area…all by yourself!

Of course, you’ll need some training to prepare for this incredible experience. The First Jump Course (FJC) ground training takes approximately 4-6 hours to complete. During the course, you will learn how to exit the airplane, practice the correct freefall body position, deploy your own parachute, and fly and land your parachute.

Weather permitting, we will get you up for your skydive on the same day as your ground training. An instructor will be with you in freefall who assist you from the exit of the airplane until you open the parachute 60 seconds later. Once your parachute is open, the instructors continue in freefall to a lower altitude while you begin flying towards the landing area. Your canopy flight is backed by radio assistance in the event you need any guidance.

After your jump, your instructors will debrief you on your skydive. You will also receive an official Skydiver’s Logbook, and a A-License Skills Progression Card, should you wish to pursue the sport and join the ranks as a full-fledged Licensed Skydiver!

Here is an example of the first jump in the AFF program.

Earn Your License

Very few people ever “take the leap” and skydive. Even fewer become licensed skydivers. Do you have what it takes?

Earning your license can be done in as little as 25 jumps. And the good news is, it gets much cheaper as your training progresses. And the best part? Once you have your license and your own equipment, a skydive costs only $26

Throughout your training, you will learn how to control your freefall in a relaxed manner, single-axis turns, aerobatics such as front flips and barrel rolls, and basic group freefall skills. You will also receive an introduction to a style of multi-axis body flight known as free flying, and expand your parachute flying skills to become a safer and more competent canopy pilot.

Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Program Prices

First Jump Course
$125
AFF Cat A – E2
$200 –
$160

Per Jump

Coach Jumps F1 – H4
$160 –

$120

Per Jump

Check Dive
$100
Packing Class
$80

Total Cost of Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Program: $3,783

NOTE: Prices are subject to change. If you pre-pay upfront for the student program we will gift you with a Cookie helmet (valued at $400!) at the completion of your program! You may also pay as you go! In order to remain current, you must jump every 30 days or you will have to repeat your last jump.

You must be 18 or older to skydive, and there is a weight limit of 240 pounds or less for AFF jumps. Your height and weight must be proportionate, as well. If you are unsure, or have any questions, give us a call.

Are you ready to become a licensed skydiver? Once you have completed your tandem skydive, you are eligible to take a Ground School First Jump Course. Our courses are typically held mid-month, every month. Please check our Facebook events page for dates, or book online. Ground School First Jump Course is $125. From there, you will progress through a succession of jumps. You must pass each jump before moving on to the next; for further information, please email skydivevsc@gmail.com

Contact Us

Or call 804-466-0215