Skydiving is a sport that offers unparalleled excitement, an immense sense of freedom, and a rush of adrenaline. But as you look beyond your first tandem jump, the question arises: What does it take to fly solo? Whether you've already experienced the thrill of a tandem skydive or are just drawn to the idea of jumping out of an airplane alone, transitioning to solo skydiving is both a personal and financial investment.
In this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps, the process of training, the costs involved, and what it takes to become a certified solo skydiver. If you're ready to take your skydiving journey to the next level, this guide is the perfect place to start.
What Is Solo Skydiving?
Solo skydiving means that you will be jumping from an aircraft and deploying your own parachute without the assistance of a tandem instructor. Unlike tandem skydiving, where you are connected to an experienced instructor who controls the jump, in solo skydiving, you are fully responsible for the entire jump, from freefall to landing.
Requirements for Solo Skydiving
Before you can take that leap, you'll need to meet a few basic requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Medical Clearance : While skydiving is accessible to many, it's important to get a medical check-up to ensure you're physically fit for the sport.
- Tandem Experience : While it's not strictly required, having some experience with tandem skydiving is highly recommended. It gives you a firsthand understanding of what to expect during freefall and the dynamics of the sport.
The Path to Solo Skydiving
The journey to flying solo is structured, as it requires both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. If you're committed to becoming a solo skydiver, you'll need to go through a structured training program. The most common path to solo skydiving is through the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program, which is designed to fast-track new skydivers to solo status.
The Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Program
The AFF program is the most popular training method for those looking to fly solo. Unlike traditional static-line training, where you pull your own parachute at a lower altitude, AFF involves jumping from higher altitudes and learning to control your own freefall right from the start.
Steps Involved in the AFF Program:
- Ground School : Before your first jump, you will undergo several hours of theory-based ground training. Topics covered include equipment use, parachute deployment, emergency procedures, and how to control your body in freefall.
- Tandem Jumps : The first few jumps are done with instructors by your side. These tandem jumps help you get used to the sensation of freefall while the instructor gives real-time guidance.
- Solo Jumps : As you progress, the number of instructors you rely on decreases, and you begin making jumps on your own, while still being monitored from the ground by an instructor. You will gradually increase your level of independence with each jump.
Duration of AFF Training:
The number of jumps needed to become fully certified as a solo skydiver varies from person to person, but on average, you will need about 7 to 25 jumps . The entire AFF course typically lasts between 3 to 6 days , depending on your progress and weather conditions.
Cost of AFF Training:
The cost of AFF training can vary based on location and the drop zone, but generally, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for the complete program. This includes the initial jumps, ground school, instructor fees, and the required gear. Additional costs, such as video packages or extra jump tickets, can increase the overall price.
What You Learn During AFF Training
- Freefall Control: You will learn how to stabilize and control your body during freefall, which is crucial for a safe and controlled landing.
- Parachute Deployment : One of the primary objectives of your training is learning when and how to deploy your parachute. You'll practice on the ground first and then simulate the action in the air.
- Emergency Procedures : You will be taught how to handle potential emergency situations, such as parachute malfunctions. Understanding these procedures is critical for every solo skydiver.
Skydiving Gear for Solo Jumping
Once you've completed the AFF program and are ready to fly solo, you will need your own skydiving gear. Although some drop zones offer gear rental for solo jumpers, investing in your own equipment is not only cost-effective in the long run, but it also ensures that you're always using gear that fits you well and meets your specific needs.
Parachute System
A complete skydiving parachute system typically includes:
- Main Parachute : The primary parachute that will slow your descent.
- Reserve Parachute : A backup parachute in case the main parachute fails to deploy or malfunctions.
- Container : The system that houses both the main and reserve parachutes, along with the deployment system.
Cost:
- A new parachute system costs between $2,500 and $4,500.
- A used system might be found for $1,500 to $2,500, but ensure it is thoroughly inspected by a professional before purchase.
Additional Gear
- Altimeter -- This device measures your altitude, helping you determine when to deploy your parachute. It can range from $150 to $500.
- Helmet -- Essential for safety during freefall. Expect to pay between $150 and $400 for a reliable helmet.
- Jumpsuit -- A protective suit designed to reduce body drag during freefall. The price usually ranges from $100 to $300.
- Automatic Activation Device (AAD) -- This device automatically deploys your reserve parachute if you haven't deployed your main parachute at a predetermined altitude. An AAD typically costs between $1,000 and $1,500.
Maintenance Costs
Maintaining your gear is crucial for safe skydiving. Parachutes must be regularly repacked by a certified rigger to ensure they deploy correctly. The cost of repacking is typically between $50 and $100 per repack, and it must be done at least every 180 days or after a certain number of jumps.
Jump Tickets and Costs for Solo Skydiving
After completing the AFF program and acquiring your own gear, you will need to purchase jump tickets for each jump you make. The price for a standard jump ticket usually ranges between $25 and $35 , though the cost can vary depending on the altitude of the jump and the location of the drop zone.
- High-altitude Jumps -- Jumps above 15,000 feet often cost more, generally ranging from $50 to $80.
- Bulk Tickets -- Many drop zones offer discount packages for frequent jumpers, where you can buy a bundle of jump tickets at a lower rate.
Additional Costs to Consider
Aside from the costs of training, gear, and jump tickets, there are a few other factors to keep in mind as you embark on your solo skydiving journey:
- Travel -- If you plan to jump at different locations or attend skydiving events, travel expenses can add up. These might include flights, hotel stays, and transportation to the drop zone.
- Skydiving Insurance -- While not mandatory, many skydivers opt for insurance to protect themselves against potential accidents. Annual insurance can cost between $100 and $300 depending on your experience level and the coverage you select.
- Drop Zone Fees -- Many drop zones charge a facility fee for using their landing areas, which is typically around $20 to $30 per day.
Safety and Risks of Solo Skydiving
Skydiving is an extreme sport, and while it is incredibly safe when done correctly, it's essential to always follow safety procedures and listen to your instructors. As a solo skydiver, you are responsible for your own actions during a jump, and you must always adhere to the rules and regulations set by your local drop zone.
Common risks include:
- Parachute malfunctions -- Always be prepared for the possibility of a malfunction, even if rare.
- Weather conditions -- Wind, clouds, and thunderstorms can make skydiving dangerous, so never jump in adverse conditions.
- Human error -- The most common cause of accidents is human error, whether it's failure to deploy the parachute in time or misjudging the landing zone.
Conclusion: Your Skydiving Journey Begins Here
Becoming a solo skydiver is an incredible accomplishment, and while it requires significant investment in terms of both time and money, the reward is well worth it. From the excitement of freefall to the serene moments under canopy, skydiving offers experiences that few other sports can match.
So, if you're ready to take the plunge, start by enrolling in an AFF program and begin your journey toward flying solo. Whether you're seeking the thrill of a solo jump or planning to make skydiving a regular part of your life, the sky is the limit.