Learn to Skydive FAQs

Getting your A-license (your first license) typically costs around $2,500 to $3,000. This amount is distributed over the duration of your training and isn't paid all at once.

We've got you covered with all the necessary equipment and paperwork. Just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to have fun while learning to skydive!

Several factors influence the duration of earning your license. Among them, weather (beyond our control) and your readiness to jump (within your control) are paramount. With favorable weather and a dedicated commitment, achieving your license in 4 weeks is feasible. However, the usual timeframe ranges from 8 to 12 weeks.

Check out our Learn to Skydive (https://www.desmoinesskydivers.com/learn-to-skydive)section for a detailed breakdown of the steps required to obtain your license!

Similar to buying a car, the pricing varies depending on whether you opt for new or used, a basic model versus one with all the bells and whistles. A decent used parachute system typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, while a new one can cost double that amount. Additionally, you'll need essential gear like an altimeter, goggles and/or helmet, and jumpsuit(s). Fortunately, these items don't all have to be bought at once and can be acquired gradually over time.

Throughout the AFF portion of your training program, all necessary equipment is provided and included in the price of your AFF jumps. This includes the parachute system, helmet and jumpsuit. Following completion of the AFF section, rig rentals become necessary if you don't possess your own gear. While renting remains an option, it can become costly over time. Additionally, rig rentals are given priority to students rather than licensed jumpers. We strongly encourage students to acquire their own gear by the time they obtain their A-license or shortly thereafter. Any of our instructors at the dropzone are available to assist you in selecting the appropriate gear to ensure it suits your needs.

Maintaining "currency," as we refer to it, involves jumping regularly to preserve muscle memory and skills, which is crucial during the learning process of skydiving. Consistently being at the dropzone, prepared to jump, is pivotal for your advancement. The longer you wait between jumps, the harder it becomes to move on to the next training level. Consequently, repeated jumps may be necessary, leading to increased expenses. Therefore, we recommend limiting the gap between jumps to no more than 21 days. After 30 days has gone by you will need a Refresher ground course. It's often advantageous to complete as many jumps as possible over a single weekend. This approach facilitates faster progression, better information retention, and ultimately, greater success!

Yes. You must be a minimum of 18 years old and weigh 220 lbs or less.

We understand that you have options for your skydiving training. Our instructors boast extensive experience with thousands of jumps and decades of training new skydivers. We are committed to fostering a safe, enjoyable, and educational atmosphere. Additionally, we are a member dropzone of the United States Parachute Association (USPA). What does this entail? It means that our dropzone adheres to the fundamental safety standards for both student and experienced skydivers as outlined by the USPA. For further insights into AFF training, the USPA website offers a wealth of valuable information. Feel free to explore at www.uspa.org.(http://www.uspa.org/)

Per USPA's Skydivers Information Manual section 2-1 : F states: No person may make a parachute jump, or attempt to make a jump, if that person is or appears to be under the influence of either; a. alcohol. b. any drug that affects that person’s faculties in any way contrary to safety.

The first step is to enroll in the FJC (First Jump Course or Ground School). You can view scheduled FJC sessions by clicking HERE.(https://bookings.burblesoft.com/index/47/20) If no times are listed, it means we don't have one scheduled at the moment. Typically, we hold classes once a month (or more frequently based on demand). We organize courses as needed, so please complete the form located on the Student Details (https://www.desmoinesskydivers.com/student-details)section, and our training coordinator will include you in our list. You'll receive a notification when we schedule our next FJC. If you don't hear from us immediately, please be patient. It may take a couple of weeks to compile the list for conducting a First Jump Course.