What to expect during the ground school portion of the AFF first jump course

FJC: First step in the AFF Process

During an Accelerated Freefall (AFF) first jump class (FJC,) students are instructed in the component parts of their rig and canopy as well as what they can expect during exit, freefall, and deployment.

Component Parts: Rig

The first step in becoming a jumper is gaining an understanding of the rig that will be strapped to your back. Jumpers need to be aware of each component part and what it's role is. During the FJC, instructors go over:

• 3-ring assembly, its location and proper appearance

  Chest strap and how to fasten it

  Deployment handle(hackey) and how to locate it

  Cutaway handle, its position, and role

  Reserve handle, its position, and role

  Location of main canopy in a closed rig

  Location of reserve canopy

  Where to locate the AAD (Automatic Activation Device,) how to make sure it is activated properly

  Reserve Static Line (RSL,) its location, and its role

Component Parts: Canopy

• Pilot shoot and its role in the initialization of the deployment sequence

  Slider and its role in slowing deployment, as well as its proper look under canopy
• Risers and their location

• Toggles and their location as well as their purpose

Component Parts: Miscellaneous  Equipment

The FJC also goes over the additional equipment needed for a student skydive :

• Helmet
• Goggles
• Altimeter
• Jumpsuit
• Radio

Further Instruction

Beyond understanding the equipment they will be using -- students must also understand what to expect (and what they need to do,) during every step of the skydive. This includes:

• Exit of aircraft

• Freefall body position

• Hand signals and communication in freefall

• Pull priorities (pull, pull at the proper altitude, pull at proper altitude with stability)

• What to expect when the canopy deploys

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