USPA Skydiving Training - FAQ
USPA FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions about USPA) provides answers to common questions regarding USPA training.
What is USPA and USPA Skydiving Training?
USPA (United States Parachute Association) is the leading and reputable organization overseeing and regulating parachute activities in the United States and all other members adhering to USPA standards. Their role is to ensure safety and standardization in skydiving training and activities among members.
USPA skydiving training encompasses various training programs for individuals aspiring to become certified skydivers. These programs include training for beginners as well as advanced courses for experienced skydivers. USPA also sets standards for training and issues licenses, authorizations, and certificates to jumpers who successfully complete the training program.
What is ISP (Integrated Student Program)?
Regardless of the training method (Static Line, IAD, AFF), the USPA Integrated Student Program (ISP) guides students through eight skill categories (A-H) to qualify them for obtaining the USPA A skydiving license.
Each student must complete a set of mandatory exercises and tasks during the prescribed training in each category. At the end of each category, students from any training discipline achieve similar skills and knowledge. The number of jumps required for each category depends on the training method and the student's performance.
When a student fulfills the requirements for each category, a USPA instructor records it on the student's documentation (USPA Proficiency Card) and A-license application, and conducts an oral exam. Especially in categories A-D, a student should fulfill all goals of one category before starting jumps in the next category.
What Training Method Do You Use?
Tandem Experts utilize the Accelerated Free Fall (AFF) training method in skydiving training to provide an intensive and efficient experience in learning to skydive. This method allows participants to quickly gain autonomy in free fall, using advanced techniques and instructor support. AFF differs from traditional methods as it involves more free falls and jumps from the maximum altitude from the beginning, facilitating faster skill acquisition and confidence-building. Tandem Experts accompany participants throughout the process, providing personalized support and feedback, ensuring safe and efficient learning at a high level of expertise.
How to Apply for AFF Skydiving Training?
Fill out the application form on our skydiving school website and await contact from our instructors. It may take a few days after submitting the form to receive a response from the instructors.
How Long Does USPA AFF Training Take?
The duration of training for the USPA A skydiving license depends on the organizational and financial capabilities of the candidate and can range from 10 days to several months.
What is the Cost of USPA Skydiving Training?
For current course prices, please refer to our skydiving training price list.
Are There Specific Requirements for Participating in USPA Skydiving Training?
- Since all literature is in English, candidates need a good understanding of the English language.
- Every training candidate must become a USPA member and provide their membership number.
- Candidates weighing over 100 kg cannot participate in the training.
- Good physical condition.
- Medical examination of at least LAPL category.
Where Does Training Take Place?
The time and location of training may vary and will be arranged with the candidates. Common jump locations include Zagreb, Varaždin, Čakovec.
What is Mandatory to Bring on the First Day of Training?
On the first day of training, it is necessary to bring a physical copy of the Skydiver's Information Manual (SIM). SIM can be downloaded for free from the USPA website or ordered with delivery. It can also be ordered from our team for a fee. Before the first parachute jump, a medical examination of at least LAPL category is required.
Are There Age Restrictions?
Candidates aged 18 and above can participate in the training. Candidates aged 16 and above can participate in the training with written consent from parents or legal guardians. The upper age limit should be considered based on the candidate's psycho-physical readiness and capabilities.
Is a Medical Examination Required to Join the Training?
Yes. In Croatia to join the training, it is necessary to do a medical examination. A list of institutions that perform medical examinations for aviation personnel can be found on the Croatian Civil Aviation Agency (CCAA) website.
Can I Skydive Independently After Completing Skydiving Training?
After obtaining the USPA A parachute license, you can skydive independently without instructor supervision.
What are the Conditions for Obtaining the USPA "A" skydiving license?
- Complete 25 free fall parachute jumps.
- Fulfill all requirements listed on the USPA Proficiency Card for the A license.
- Perform 5 group jumps with at least two participants.
- Pass the written and oral exam for the A license developed by USPA, conducted by the current USPA Instructor, examiner, S&TA, judge, or board member.
Can I do Tandem Skydive with Others After Obtaining the A License?
No. To perform Tandem jumps in the role of a tandem instructor, you must have USPA tandem instructor rating.
What are the Conditions for Enrolling in the Skydiving Instructor Course?
All conditions required for various ratings can be found in the SIM and IRM available on the USPA website.
How Many USPA Skydiving Courses Do You Conduct Annually?
The number of courses conducted annually depends on candidate interest, and we typically hold one per month.
