Skydiving Instructor Certification Explained

Starting a Skydiving Business

Before embarking on the exciting journey of starting a skydiving business, aspiring entrepreneurs must navigate through the skydiving instructor certification process and obtain the necessary licenses. This section explores the steps involved in becoming a certified skydiving instructor and the licensing requirements for operating a skydiving business.

Skydiving Instructor Certification Process

Becoming a certified skydiving instructor involves completing specific training programs and meeting the requirements set by the United States Parachute Association (USPA). There are three primary training programs for skydiving instructors:

1. Accelerated Free Fall (AFF): This program trains individuals to become AFF skydiving instructors who guide students through the accelerated progression of learning to skydive solo. To qualify for the AFF instructor rating, candidates must be at least 18 years old, hold a USPA Coach or other instructor rating for at least one year, or have accrued a minimum of 500 jumps. They must also possess a USPA C license and have logged at least 6 hours of freefall time. Successful completion of a USPA AFF instructor course, including written exams and practical evaluation jumps with a USPA AFF examiner, is required.

2. Coach Rating Program: The coach rating is the foundational rating required to become a skydiving instructor. To qualify for the coach rating, individuals must be at least 18 years old, have a minimum of 100 jumps, and hold a USPA B license. Completion of the Coach Certification Course is necessary to obtain the coach rating.

3. Tandem Skydiving Instructor Qualifications: Tandem skydiving instructors provide the opportunity for students to experience the thrill of skydiving while attached to an instructor. To qualify as a tandem skydiving instructor, individuals must be at least 18 years old, hold a USPA instructional rating, have logged 500 skydives, earned a USPA D license, attained a minimum of three years of skydiving experience, and possess a current FAA Class III Flight Medical Certificate. Successful completion of a USPA Tandem Instructor Rating Course, involving written exams and practical jumps with a simulated student, under the supervision of a USPA Tandem Instructor or Examiner, is required.

For more detailed information on the certification process, you can refer to Skydive Carolina.

Skydiving Business Licensing

Starting a skydiving business also requires obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. The specific requirements may vary depending on the location, so it’s essential to research and comply with the regulations of the local authorities.

Some common licenses and permits required for a skydiving business include:

• Business License: Obtain a general business license from the local government or municipality to legally operate your skydiving business.

• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Certification: Depending on the type of aircraft used for skydiving operations, you may need to obtain FAA certification, such as a Letter of Authorization (LOA) or a 14 CFR Part 105 Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COWA).

• Insurance: Obtain appropriate insurance coverage for your skydiving business, including liability insurance to protect against potential accidents or injuries.

• Environmental Permits: Depending on the location, you may need to obtain environmental permits or comply with specific environmental regulations.

It’s crucial to consult with local authorities and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with all the necessary licensing requirements for starting a skydiving business in your area. Additionally, it’s recommended to seek advice from experienced skydiving professionals or consider partnering with an existing skydiving operation to gain insights into the licensing process.

For more comprehensive guidance on starting a skydiving business, you can refer to our skydiving business startup guide and skydiving business plan template.

By navigating through the skydiving instructor certification process and obtaining the required licenses, you can lay the foundation for a successful skydiving business. Remember to comply with all safety regulations, provide thorough training to your instructors, and prioritize the safety and enjoyment of your customers.

Skydiving Training Programs

To become a certified skydiving instructor, individuals must undergo specific training programs designed to develop their skills and knowledge in the field. Let’s explore three popular training programs: Accelerated Free Fall (AFF), Coach Rating Program, and Tandem Skydiving Instructor Qualifications.

Accelerated Free Fall (AFF)

The Accelerated Free Fall (AFF) training program is a widely recognized method for individuals to enter the world of skydiving. This program involves certified instructors accompanying the student in freefall, with the student wearing their own parachute. The first jump can often be accomplished the same day after several hours of ground training, allowing students to experience the thrill of skydiving firsthand. The AFF program emphasizes safety and progression, with students completing a series of jumps and mastering specific skills at each stage.

For example, at SkyDance Skydiving, the AFF training program begins with a 4-6 hour First Jump Course followed by seven instructor jumps that cover individual learning categories. Successful completion of each category prepares individuals to become solo skydivers (SkyDance Skydiving).

Coach Rating Program

The Coach Rating Program is another essential step in the journey to becoming a skydiving instructor. This program focuses on developing teaching skills and skydiving abilities. Individuals who aspire to become instructors attend a USPA Coach Course and earn a USPA Coach rating. The Coach Rating is the first instructional rating that an individual can receive and serves as a foundational rating for future instructional certifications.

By completing the Coach Rating Program, individuals gain the necessary knowledge and skills to assist students during their skydiving progression. They learn how to provide guidance, evaluate performance, and ensure safety throughout the learning process. This program is an important stepping stone on the path to becoming a fully qualified skydiving instructor (Skydive Perris).

Tandem Skydiving Instructor Qualifications

Tandem skydiving is a popular choice for individuals who want to experience skydiving without undergoing extensive training. Tandem jumps involve a certified tandem instructor who is responsible for the safety and control of the skydive, allowing the passenger to enjoy the experience. To become a tandem skydiving instructor, specific qualifications must be met.

Requirements for tandem skydiving instructor qualifications may vary depending on the country and regulatory bodies. In the United States, for example, individuals must complete an instructor rating course and pass a practical evaluation with a USPA Tandem Examiner. This evaluation tests their skills and competency in tandem skydiving procedures and safety protocols. Once certified, tandem instructors can guide and share the excitement of skydiving with passengers in a safe and controlled manner (Skydive Carolina).

By successfully completing these training programs, individuals lay the foundation for their skydiving instructor career. These programs provide the necessary skills, knowledge, and certifications to safely guide and teach students in various skydiving disciplines. Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends and safety protocols are vital for skydiving instructors to maintain their qualifications and provide the best experience for their students.

Requirements for Skydiving Instructors

Becoming a certified skydiving instructor requires meeting specific requirements and qualifications. Depending on the type of instructor rating, such as Tandem Skydiving Instructor, AFF Skydiving Instructor, or Coach Rating, individuals must fulfill different prerequisites. Let’s explore each category in detail:

Tandem Skydiving Instructor

To qualify as a Tandem Skydiving Instructor, individuals must meet the following requirements:

1. Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
2. Instructional Rating: Hold a United States Parachute Association (USPA) instructional rating.
3. Skydiving Experience: Have a minimum of 500 logged skydives.
4. License: Possess a USPA D license.
5. Experience: Attain a minimum of three years of experience in skydiving.
6. Medical Certificate: Hold a current FAA Class III Flight Medical Certificate.

These requirements ensure that Tandem Skydiving Instructors have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to safely conduct tandem skydives. For more information on becoming a Tandem Skydiving Instructor, consult Skydive Carolina.

AFF Skydiving Instructor

To become an Accelerated Free Fall (AFF) Skydiving Instructor, candidates must meet the following criteria:

1. Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
2. Instructor Rating: Hold a USPA Coach or other Instructor rating for at least one full year, or have accrued a minimum of 500 jumps.
3. License: Possess a USPA C license.
4. Freefall Time: Log a minimum of 6 hours of freefall time.

In addition to these prerequisites, individuals looking to become AFF Skydiving Instructors must pass a USPA AFF skydiving instructor course. This course includes a written exam and practical evaluation jumps with a USPA AFF examiner. Successful completion of these requirements demonstrates the candidate’s proficiency and competence in teaching accelerated free fall skydiving. For detailed information on becoming an AFF Skydiving Instructor, refer to Skydive Carolina.

Coach Rating Prerequisites

The Coach Rating is the initial instructional skydiving rating that individuals can obtain. It serves as a foundation for pursuing other instructional ratings in the future. The prerequisites for obtaining a Coach Rating may vary, but generally, candidates must meet the following criteria:

1. Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
2. Skydiving Experience: Have a minimum number of logged skydives (requirements may vary).
3. License: Possess a USPA B license or higher.

The Coach Rating allows individuals to assist and teach novice skydivers under the supervision of a more experienced instructor. It serves as an important stepping stone towards becoming a fully certified skydiving instructor. For more information on obtaining a Coach Rating, you can visit Skydive Carolina.

Meeting the requirements for each category of skydiving instructor ensures that individuals are adequately prepared and qualified to guide and instruct others in the exhilarating world of skydiving.

Becoming a Skydiving Instructor

To become a certified skydiving instructor, individuals must go through a rigorous training process that includes an instructor rating course and practical training to develop the necessary skills. Let’s delve into these steps in more detail.

Instructor Rating Course

The first step towards becoming a skydiving instructor is to enroll in an instructor rating course. This course provides comprehensive ground training, equipping individuals with the knowledge and understanding required to teach and guide others in the world of skydiving. The course covers various topics such as instructional techniques, safety protocols, emergency procedures, and teaching methodologies.

During the instructor rating course, candidates are evaluated through written exams to assess their theoretical knowledge. These exams typically cover topics such as skydiving regulations, safety practices, and instructional best practices. Successful completion of the written exams is a crucial step towards obtaining the instructor rating.

Practical Training and Skills Development

In addition to the theoretical component, practical training and skills development are integral parts of the journey to becoming a skydiving instructor. Candidates must undergo hands-on training to hone their skills and gain experience in real-life scenarios.

During the practical training phase, aspiring instructors are required to demonstrate their abilities through jumps and simulated student scenarios. This practical evaluation allows candidates to showcase their proficiency in teaching, communication, and problem-solving skills while ensuring the safety of themselves and their students.

To specialize in a specific type of skydiving instruction, such as tandem skydiving or Accelerated Free Fall (AFF), candidates may need to complete additional training programs tailored to their chosen field. Each specialization will have its own set of requirements and practical evaluations that must be met to attain the corresponding instructor rating.

Throughout the training process, aspiring instructors receive guidance and feedback from experienced instructors and evaluators. This mentorship helps to refine their skills, address any areas for improvement, and ensure that they are prepared to take on the responsibilities of instructing others in the exhilarating world of skydiving.

Skydiving instructor certification requires commitment, dedication, and a passion for the sport. By successfully completing the instructor rating course and practical training, individuals can obtain the necessary qualifications to guide and inspire others in their skydiving journeys.

To further enhance their knowledge and stay up to date with industry trends, regulations, and safety protocols, skydiving instructors are encouraged to engage in continuous learning. Attending annual Safety Day events, industry conferences, and acquiring additional ratings to expand their skills and education are essential steps towards becoming exceptional skydiving instructors.

By embarking on the path to becoming a certified skydiving instructor, individuals can share their passion for the sport, inspire others, and contribute to the growth and safety of the skydiving community.

Skydiving Instructor Compensation

Skydiving instructors play a crucial role in the skydiving industry, sharing their knowledge and expertise with students. As instructors gain experience and expertise, they can expect compensation that reflects their skills and contributions. In this section, we will explore the pay structure and industry standards for skydiving instructors.

Pay Structure

The pay structure for skydiving instructors can vary based on several factors, including their instructor rating, the location of the facility, and the frequency of instructor jumps. In the United States, skydiving instructors are typically paid per jump, with different instructor ratings having their own pay scales. The amount instructors make per jump can vary depending on the facility.

It’s important to note that networking within the skydiving community and building relationships can open doors to various opportunities for instructors. This can lead to additional income streams, such as organizing group jumps, coaching advanced skydiving techniques, or participating in special events.

Industry Standards

The exact compensation for skydiving instructors can vary from facility to facility. However, it’s worth noting that some facilities may offer higher pay rates compared to the current industry standard. For example, at Skydive Carolina, instructors are paid more than the industry standard, ensuring that their dedication and expertise are appropriately recognized (Skydive Carolina).

To provide a more comprehensive understanding of the compensation for skydiving instructors, it’s important to consider the different instructor ratings and their corresponding pay scales. The specific amounts can vary, so it’s recommended to inquire directly with skydiving facilities for their compensation details.

The compensation for skydiving instructors is influenced by various factors, including their experience, qualifications, and the demand for their services. As instructors gain more experience and attain higher ratings, their earning potential increases. It’s important to note that compensation may also include other benefits, such as discounts on equipment purchases or access to facility resources.

Remember, becoming a skydiving instructor requires dedication, continuous learning, and building both teaching and skydiving skills. Attending courses, earning certifications, and gaining experience are essential steps in advancing in the field (Skydive Perris). Stay engaged with industry trends, maintain safety protocols, and continue to enhance your skills to excel as a skydiving instructor.

In conclusion, while the exact compensation for skydiving instructors can vary, it is typically based on a per-jump pay structure. The rates can differ based on instructor ratings and the facility where they work. By continuously improving their skills and networking within the skydiving community, instructors can increase their earning potential and find new opportunities within the industry.

Continuous Learning for Instructors

As skydiving instructors, continuous learning is essential to stay updated on industry trends, regulations, and safety protocols. This ongoing education ensures that instructors can provide the best possible training and guidance to their students. In this section, we will explore two key areas of continuous learning for skydiving instructors: industry trends and safety protocols.

Industry Trends

Staying informed about the latest industry trends is important for skydiving instructors. This includes staying up to date with advancements in equipment, techniques, and teaching methodologies. Attending annual Safety Day events and national industry conferences are minimum requirements for skydiving instructors to stay connected with industry developments. These events provide opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and gain insights into new practices and technologies. It also allows instructors to network and exchange ideas with other professionals in the field.

In addition to attending industry events, instructors should regularly engage with industry publications, online forums, and educational resources. These sources provide valuable information about emerging trends, best practices, and innovations in the skydiving community. By staying informed, instructors can ensure that they are providing the most current and effective training to their students.

Safety Protocols

Safety is paramount in the skydiving industry, and instructors play a crucial role in maintaining a safe environment for both themselves and their students. As part of their continuous learning, instructors must stay updated on the latest safety protocols and procedures.

The United States Parachute Association (USPA) provides curriculum and guidelines for certified instructors, outlining the necessary equipment and knowledge for various methods of instruction. However, each drop zone may have its own specific policies and procedures for training. Instructors must familiarize themselves with these protocols and ensure they are following the guidelines set by their respective drop zones.

Instructors are also encouraged to pursue additional ratings and certifications to expand their skills and education. Acquiring additional ratings, such as the USPA Coach rating or advanced instructor ratings, demonstrates a commitment to professional growth and enhances the instructor’s ability to provide comprehensive training.

By continuously learning and staying updated on industry trends and safety protocols, skydiving instructors can maintain their expertise and provide the highest level of instruction to their students. This commitment to ongoing education ensures that instructors can adapt to changes in the industry and continue to prioritize safety while delivering exceptional training experiences.