Below you will find answers to the most common questions regarding AFF Courses

How old do I have to be for the course?

You need to be at least 16 years old, and if you are a minor, you need a written statement of consent from a parent or legal guardian. 

What physical conditions do I have to meet? 

The same as for a tandem jump. In addition, you need a medical certificate from a GP or sports physician regarding your physical condition (form). 

How long does the course take?

We begin with an on-ground theoretical preparation – the so-called Ground School – which usually takes place on Sundays in Gießen-Lützellinden; you can find the dates in our calendar. This takes approximately one-and-a-half days. Assuming suitable weather conditions, Level 1 jumps usually start on Tuesdays. Over the following days and the weekend, you will learn to jump by yourself.

What is Ground School?

Ground School is a preparatory training of approx. 12 to 15 hours. We will introduce you to the equipment and relevant body positions during a parachute jump. You will also learn how to descend on the chute, how to land, and what to do in case of an emergency. After some practice drills on the ground, you will complete a written test. 

How many jumps before I am allowed to jump on my own? 

The course comprises a total of seven jump levels. The first three jumps are accompanied by two instructors, the remaining four by only one. So ideally, that’s only seven jumps, and the eighth can be the first jump you do completely on your own. 

What do the different AFF Levels contain?

You will find the topics covered in each level under Courses.

How much does an AFF Course cost?

You will find the course fees under Courses/Fees.

The course fee covers Ground School, seven jump levels and your first solo jump following completion. In addition, we provide all of the necessary equipment during the course.

Who decides whether or not I have passed a certain level?  

The instructor! The procedures for each jump are discussed and practised during the briefing beforehand. After the jump, your instructor will discuss with you how things went and whether you have learned the required lessons. 

What happens if my course is interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances?

If you cannot complete your course due to bad weather or for health reasons, you can make arrangements with your instructor to catch up on the missed parts in one of the following weeks or at weekends.  

Can I split the course and its costs into several instalments?  

Unfortunately, we can no longer offer partial or instalment payments due to negative experiences in the past. However, you can pay for your jumps individually – see fees.

Can I take a weekend-only course?

Based on recommendations from the Parachute Association, we only offer AFF training as full-week courses. This is the safest and most efficient way, as you should avoid rushing your training or interrupting your course . A weekend would simply be too short for that. 

Which other costs should I expect?

The medical certificate from your general practitioner or sports physician. Prices for these can vary greatly, but average at about 50 Euros. In addition, you need to pay the cost for your own subsequent jumps and the Association fees for the final test (75 Euros). 

What do I do after completing an AFF course? 

First and foremost, keep on jumping to practise and internalise what you have learned (for costs per jump, see prices).

How do I acquire a parachuting license?

In order to be admitted for a licensing test, you need to have completed a minimum of 25 jumps. The final two examination jumps of the course count towards that minimum. After that, you can take the theoretical and practical exam and get your license.  

What if I don’t know any more what to do next during a jump?  

Your instructor will only let you jump on your own if he/she is certain you have understood everything. Also, you will be in contact with your instructor via radio during the jump in case you need additional instructions.

What if my parachute doesn’t open?  

Discussing and practising what to do during the jump, including in case of an emergency, is an integral part of Ground School. Also, your parachute system contains a second, reserve parachute, which can be activated by automated deployment (Cypress).