AFF Course: Complete Guide to Getting Your Skydiving License
The AFF (Accelerated Freefall) course is the standard pathway to becoming an autonomous skydiver in Italy. It consists of 8 progressive levels of jumps with instructors, plus an autonomous consolidation phase, for a total of approximately 25 jumps before obtaining your B license.
FAQ
- How many jumps does it take to get a skydiving license?
- You need at least 25 total jumps: 8 AFF levels (each counts as a jump with instructors), plus consolidation jumps on your own. The exact number depends on personal progress; some students do 30-40 before feeling ready for the exam.
- How long does the AFF course take?
- It depends on frequency. Those who train every weekend take 3-6 months. Those who can dedicate themselves full-time complete the program in 4-8 weeks. Weather and aircraft availability affect the timeline.
- What are the requirements to start the AFF course?
- You must be at least 18 years old, be in good general health, know how to swim (ENAC requirement), and pass a basic sports medical examination. No previous extreme sports experience is required.
- Can I pause the AFF course and resume later?
- Yes, but with limitations. After a break longer than 30-60 days, it may be necessary to repeat some levels or do refresher jumps. Each school has its own policies; ask before starting.
- What do you learn in the AFF levels?
- Levels 1-2: exit and basic stabilization with two instructors. Levels 3-4: control maneuvers and turns. Levels 5-6: advanced figures and altitude awareness. Levels 7-8: complete autonomy, opening the parachute independently. Then solo jumps.
- How do you choose the right school for the AFF course?
- Verify that the school is ENAC certified and registered with FIVL. Check that the instructors have AFF Instructor qualifications (not just tandem). Visit the facility, observe the training materials, and don't choose based on price alone.
- Can I do the AFF course abroad and have the license recognized in Italy?
- Yes, a USPA license or equivalent can be converted to an Italian ENAC license through an equivalency process. It's convenient if you have the opportunity to train in countries with better weather conditions.
- What happens after obtaining the license?
- With a B license you can jump independently at any Italian drop zone. The next step is to accumulate experience (50-100 jumps) before starting specific disciplines like canopy piloting, freefly, formations, or wingsuit.
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This article was produced with AI assistance by the virtual editor Marco Ferretti, and reviewed by the Quota 4000 editorial team before publication.
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