Of the two ways to get certified (AFF and Tandem Progression) Tandem Progression is less popular but offers a more gradual introduction to the sport. 

If you think you want to work towards a license, you can make your first Tandem jump the first jump of the Tandem Progression.  Tandem Progression (whose name changes to the Instructor Assisted Freefall method once you stop doing actual Tandem jumps) begins with three Tandem jumps (Tandem Levels I, II & III). On these jumps, you learn how to pull your own ripcord, make turns, and other essential skills. Tandem instructor is in the air and attached to you to help you out if you have any problems.  This provides an extra level of comfort for some people getting used to freefall.  All of these jumps are from 14,000 feet and give you around 60 seconds of freefall as well as plenty of time under the parachute to fly around and set up a landing pattern.

You then take a "First Jump Course" in preparation for your first non-Tandem skydive (IAF Level I). On this skydive, the instructor is holding onto you, but is not attached to you like on a Tandem jump. You now learn how to fall stable and eventually pull your own pilot chute, which is how the main parachute is deployed, like you did on the Tandem jumps.  The jumpmaster is holding onto you and still has the capability of helping you if you have any problems. IAF Level II starts out the same, but shortly after exit the instructor releases you, but doesn't leave your side, and you really get to fly on your own. You then have IAF Levels III and IV which complete the Tandem progression.  In these levels, you practice and learn more skills for flying and you work on your landing patterns. 

Once you finish these, you are certified to jump on your own and can start working towards you’re A-license.

Please call Skydive Atlanta for reservations at least one week ahead of time.

Skydive Atlanta phone:  1-800-276-DIVE

Skydive Atlanta website:  http://www.skydiveatlanta.com

Call for current prices on Tandem Progression and be sure to tell them that you are with the Georgia Tech Skydiving Club.  Don’t forget to bring your student ID and if you have any other questions please don’t hesitate to email the club.

Nikki Russell – President:  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it