IAD vs AFF. How many jumps?

[mmaaddllii 0]

I really truly want to start skydiving next summer.
And I was wondering how many jumps does it take on IAD to be on a level of AFF finished student?
I mean that I could then do freefalls that last about 50 seconds.

[hackish 8]

I am by no means an expert but I would say it depends on the student. Jump #4 I was doing PRCP's but I had trouble arching and keeping the arch so it took until jump #8 to pull my own. I think it may be best to get into it with a series of objectives rather than an expectation that on jump #x you will be doing this or that.

-Michael

[BIGUN 1,520]

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I think it may be best to get into it with a series of objectives rather than an expectation that on jump #x you will be doing this or that.

Perfect.

Nobody has time to listen; because they're desperately chasing the need of being heard.

[riggerrob 644]

Both programs work.
By the time you have two dozen jumps, you will have acquired the same skills.
Hint: most countries require a minimum of 25 jumps to earn your first skydiving license (i.e. a Canadian A Certificate requires 25 jumps, plus a list of skills).

AFF will get you higher - sooner - but they are more expensive jumps because you pay for two instructors, three jump tickets, three high jump tickets, etc.

The best training program incorporates elements from all different training methods: tandem, IAD, wind tunnel, AFF and maybe even a bit of ground launching.
Most schools start students with tandem, to get over their initial fear, then do an IAD or three to teach basic canopy-steering skills. Once students can land safely, then they are encouraged to spend ten or twenty minutes in a wind tunnel.
After they have learned the basics of freefall - in a wind tunnel - they do five or eight freefall jumps with AFF instructors, etc.
Finally, a half dozen coach dives will help students complete the list of skills they need to earn an A Certificate.

[kelpdiver 2]

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I really truly want to start skydiving next summer.
And I was wondering how many jumps does it take on IAD to be on a level of AFF finished student?
I mean that I could then do freefalls that last about 50 seconds.

AFF students do 50 second freefalls (give or take) on the first jump. If that's the only criteria that matters to you. Of course, same is true for a tandem.

Around the 5th level you leave the plane solo. And 7-10 or more jumps in you can jump alone under student restrictions for wind. But it's the same 25-30 jumps before you can do almost everything you want.