Skydive California | Bay Area Skydiving - Tandem Skydiving
Skydiving

Learn to Fly Solo

AFF Training Program - From First Jump to A-License

The Bay Area's first choice for skydiving for over 30 years!
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30+ Years of Experience
Your Journey Begins Here

From First Jump to
Licensed Skydiver

Ready to take skydiving beyond tandem? Our student training programs are designed to help first-time jumpers safely progress toward becoming licensed skydivers with guidance from experienced instructors every step of the way.

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30+ Years of Experience

Industry-leading expertise

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USPA-Certified Instructors

Professional training standards

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Modern Training Equipment

Latest safety technology

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Fast Climb Aircraft

More time in the sky

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Supportive Learning Environment

Community-focused training

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Northern California Drop Zone

Stunning Bay Area views

World-Class Training

Why Train With
Bay Area Skydiving

30+ Years of Experience

Trusted leader in skydiving training

USPA-Certified Instructors

Professional training you can trust

Modern Training Equipment

Latest safety technology and gear

Fast Climb Aircraft

More time in the air, less waiting

Supportive Learning Environment

Welcoming community atmosphere

Northern California Drop Zone

Beautiful Bay Area location

First Jump Course

Ground School Training

Your training begins with a comprehensive ground school session where you'll learn:

  • Equipment basics
  • Body position and stability
  • Altitude awareness
  • Deployment procedures
  • Emergency protocols
  • Landing techniques

Our instructors focus on building confidence and preparing you for a safe and exciting first skydive experience.

Ground school training
AFF training in freefall

Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Program

Learn Faster With AFF

The Accelerated Freefall program allows students to experience solo freefall progression while receiving direct in-air guidance from certified instructors.

As you advance through each level, you'll develop:

  • Stable freefall control
  • Turning and maneuvering skills
  • Altitude management
  • Safe deployment procedures
  • Canopy navigation and landing accuracy

Continue Your Progression

Build Skills & Experience

After completing your initial AFF levels, you'll continue gaining experience through coached jumps, solo practice, and skill development dives designed to prepare you for your USPA A License.

Student progression
Licensed skydiver celebration

Get Licensed

Earn Your USPA A License

Your journey toward becoming a licensed skydiver includes:

  • Minimum jump requirements
  • Canopy proficiency
  • Safety evaluations
  • Packing knowledge
  • Group jump skills

Our team will guide you through the process from your very first jump to earning your skydiving license.

Modern Aircraft & Facilities

Train from our high-performance 18-seat Caravan 208 Blackhawk conversion aircraft designed for fast climbs, comfort, and efficient operations so you spend more time in the sky.

Inside our modern aircraft

AFF Categories Breakdown

Category A

First jump with 2 Instructors hands on in your own skydiving rig, with the focus being on body position, altitude awareness, and practice deployments.

Watch Category A Video
Category B

2 Instructors hands on jump with introduction to turns and forward movement while continuing to build altitude awareness and stability.

Watch Category B Video
Category C

2 Instructors hands off jump where you demonstrate the skills learned in Categories A & B and learn about stability recovery.

Watch Category C Video
Category D

Single Instructor hands off jump focusing on precision turns without assistance.

Watch Category D Video
Category E

Single Instructor hands off jump learning diving exits, flips, and barrel rolls.

Watch Category E Video
Category F

Single Instructor hands off jump refining controlled forward movement and how it’s utilized for safety during group jumps. Plus introduction to Aircraft emergency protocols.

Watch Category F Video
Category G

Single Instructor hands off jump with introduction level changes and docking in preparation for group jumps.

Watch Category G Video
Category H

Single Instructor hands off jump learning how to approach a group by diving and refining docking in preparation for group jumps.

Watch Category H Video
Check Dive – Get Your 1st Skydiving License (A-License)

Put it all on the line during your final AFF jump. Successfully complete this evaluation jump to earn your USPA A-license to become a certified skydiver. This jump demonstrates proficiency in all AFF skills including exits, freefall stability, altitude awareness, turns, docking, tracking, and canopy control.

Watch Check Dive Video

Ready to Begin?

Whether your goal is adventure, personal growth, or becoming part of the skydiving community, Bay Area Skydiving offers a safe, professional, and exciting path into the sport.