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How long does it take to learn how to skydive?

For a tandem skydive, there is very little instruction because you will be connected to an expert instructor who will perform most of the actions for your jump. A tandem jump can take up to four hours but typically takes less than that.

Accelerated Freefall classes last 6 to 8 hours so plan on being at the drop zone all day. Most AFF students jump the same day.

To become a licensed skydiver takes a minimum of 20 jumps. You are able to solo after only 7 jumps providing you accomplish the required task on these jumps.

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What advantages do I have learning at Skydive Alabama?

Skydive Alabama has a highly experienced staff that will take every step to make sure your skydive is safe and fun. Our aircraft are well-maintained and our facilities are second to none in Alabama.

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Do I need to make reservations to make a skydive?

Reservations aren't required but they are highly recommended as it is the only way to guarantee your slot. We require a $50 deposit per person, either an Alabama check or money order, or a Visa or MasterCard over the phone. Unlike most drop zones, you can cancel or change your reservations up to 24 hours before your scheduled appointment without losing your deposit.

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Can we get one video for our whole group?

You would need to purchase separate videos for each skydive, It is impossible for a freefall camera flyer to be in more than one place at the same time — tandems are as much as a quarter mile apart in freefall!

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Do you offer group or student discounts?

We offer a $10 per-jump discount for students (current student ID required or military ID) and for groups of 4 or more for Tandem skydives.

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Is skydiving safe?

Skydiving is like skiing or roller-blading or any other extreme sport: there are inherent risks that require careful training and execution. Failure to follow that training can lead to serious injury or even death. Skydiving is as safe as the individual makes it. The equipment is so evolved and reliable that, when used properly, skydiving can be as safe or safer than any other extreme sport.

Skydive Alabama owns and maintains state-of-the-art tandem and student gear, all equipped with AAD's (Automatic Activation Device) which activates your reserve if you are still in freefall below a pre-defined altitude.

Skydive Alabama is a group member of the United States Parachute Association and all of our instructors are USPA certified.

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How long will it take?

For tandem jumps, the whole process from the time you arrive to the time you land can take up to four hours, but typically less than that. For AFF I jumps, plan on being on the drop zone all day.

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Can I go solo my first jump?

No. Putting somebody out solo on their first jump is somewhat like taking a beginning skier to the top of a mountain and saying "have a nice run."

Tandem jumps are highly encouraged as a first-jump option. They are cheaper, faster, and you can quickly decide whether skydiving is your cup of tea. Your other option is AFF, where you are assisted in freefall by two expert jumpmasters, pull your own ripcord, and fly your own parachute to the ground.

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Can you breathe and/or talk in freefall?

Breathing is easy in freefall, but talking is nearly impossible. Only in the movies!

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What should I wear?

Dress comfortably. Shorts and T-shirts in the summer, sweats in the winter, tennis shoes. Bring snug fitting gloves in the winter if you have them. While it is colder in freefall than on the ground, most people don't notice because they are having so much fun skydiving.

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How fast do you fall?

The average human body falls approximately 120 miles per hour, so a two-mile skydive from 10,000 feet lasts a little less than one minute.

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What if my parachute doesn't open?

As per FAA regulations, "All persons intending to exit an aircraft in flight must be equipped with two parachutes..." If you are doing a tandem jump, your instructor will use the second parachute. If you are doing AFF, you will use the second parachute.

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Are there any age, height, or weight restrictions?

At Skydive Alabama you must be at least 19 years of age (regardless of parental consent) and weigh no more than 240 pounds. There are no height restrictions. One of the great things about tandem skydiving is that just about anyone can make a skydive.

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Why can't I jump if I weigh more than 240 pounds?

The equipment is designed, tested, and certified for a maximum student weight of 240 pounds. If you weigh 241 pounds, you must lose that pound before you can jump. Sorry, no exceptions.

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How hard is the landing?

Most landings are quite soft, with many people doing nice stand-up landings. Sometimes, especially on calm days, the forward speed of the parachute will provide you with a "sliding" landing through the grass.

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©Copyright 2001 - 2008 Skydive Alabama Inc., All rights reserved. | 231 County Road 1360, Vinemont, AL, 35179 USA | Tel: 256-736-5553 Fax: 703-940-7387 | Email: info@skydivealabama.com