Understanding the Skydiving Student Program Pathway

You’ve Done a Tandem — What’s Next? Your Guide to Getting a Skydiving License 

So, you’ve taken the exhilarating leap with a tandem skydive, and now you’re hooked. We know the feeling! You’re ready for the next challenge — but you have a lot of questions. How do you transform a novel, thrilling experience into a full-fledged hobby? What should you look for in a skydiving course and how do you earn your skydiving license? And how does a license differ from a solo certification of proficiency?

We understand that navigating the various terms, programs, and requirements can feel overwhelming. In this article, we’ll break down the steps and guide you through the skydiving certification process, helping you take the next leap with confidence.

What Is a Skydiving License? 

The Canadian Sport Parachuting Association (CSPA) is the official sport organization for sport parachuting in Canada. Dedicated to promoting safety, the CSPA establishes guidelines through collaboration and adherence to voluntarily adopted rules and recommendations. They establish standards and skydiving certification levels — called Certificates of Proficiency (CoPs) — to guide skydivers through each stage of training. Each CoP certifies that you’ve met the skill requirements for a specific stage, enabling you to progress further as the training becomes increasingly complex.

For aspiring skydivers, the ultimate goal is to earn the “A” CoP — the first internationally recognized level of proficiency. This certification provides greater freedom, allowing you to jump with other “A” CoP holders and explore exciting, advanced skydiving opportunities.

The Three Modules to Skydiving Independence 

Your journey toward earning an “A” CoP begins with an approved student program. While the details may vary slightly between each skydiving learning course, all should meet the minimum objectives set by the CSPA. 

Module 1: The Progressive Freefall Program (PFF) 

At Parachute Ottawa, we exceed CSPA standards with our Progressive Freefall Program (PFF) – a week-long, immersive learning experience guided by highly skilled Progressive Freefall Instructors (PFFIs). This comprehensive course ensures you build a strong foundation in skydiving while progressing confidently toward your “A” CoP. 

What to Expect:

• Day 1: Ground training to teach you essential skills and safety procedures.
• Days 2-5: Structured daily jumps with your instructor to achieve specific objectives.
• Last Day: Complete your graduation jump, where your instructors will excitedly support you as you complete a solo skydive using the skills built throughout the week. 

If you don’t meet all objectives on your first attempt, don’t worry — repeating levels is a normal part of the process. We’ll work with you to ensure you’re proficient in the necessary skills before advancing to the next stage.

PFF Program Requirements:

• 18 years of age or older
• Less than 230 lbs
• Proof of a previous tandem skydive or military-equivalent jump 

By the end of Module 1, you’ll have demonstrated freefall proficiency, practiced emergency procedures, showcased technical skills, and earned your Solo CoP, a significant milestone on your path to skydiving independence!

Psst! FYI, Canada’s PFF curriculum is similar to the AFF course that’s offered over the border in the US. 

Module 2: Coach 1 Jumps – “A” Program Prep 

With your Solo Certificate in hand, it’s time to refine your freefall skills and build a solid foundation for advanced maneuvers during your “A” program prep.

During this module, you’ll work with a Coach 1 to practice skills like barrel rolls, back loops, and front loops — ultimately combining all objectives into one jump. 

Module 3: The “A” Program

The final step toward earning your “A” CoP centers on mastering advanced techniques and developing essential teamwork skills, equipping you for more complex skydiving experiences. 

What You’ll Achieve:

• Packing Endorsement: Learn to pack your own parachute confidently, a crucial skill for any independent skydiver.
  
• Relative Work (RW) Endorsement: Gain the ability to perform jumps in formation with others, emphasizing precision, coordination, and communication.
  
  At Parachute Ottawa, we go beyond the CSPA’s minimum five-jump curriculum by offering a comprehensive eight-level coach jump program that ensures you’re confident and well-prepared for the next stage. Work with a Coach 2 to refine techniques such as tracking, docking, and group exits. 

By the end of Module 3, you’ll have completed a minimum of 25 jumps, accumulated at least 10 minutes of freefall time, completed all the required ground knowledge and exams, and earned your “A” CoP. This certification allows you to jump with other “A” CoP holders (who also have completed the RW eight-jump curriculum), participate in night jumps, and even begin working toward higher skydiving license levels!

Why the Three-Module System Works 

Breaking the program into three distinct modules helps students focus on achievable milestones. Each module builds on the previous one, creating a logical learning progression. Because our program goes above and beyond the bare minimum, students will feel more confident and prepared by the time they complete the program.  

Ready to Start Your Journey? 

If you’re ready to take the leap from tandem skydiving to full independence, our program is designed to help you succeed. With expert instructors and a supportive environment, we’ll be with you every step of the way. 

Book your training program today, and let’s fly! Blue skies!