Kirkk0herra 0 #1 February 17, 2014 Hello, I'm a new member of this forum. I'm a 34 years old dive instructor from Finland and it's been my dream for sometime now to change the depths for blue skies. It does scare me a bit, though. Maybe it's being a dive instructor that immediately brings all the horror scenarios with a student to my mind. Except this time I'm the student in an unfamiliar environment. My plan is to do the AFF + 30 or so jumps in Spain in early June. Before going there I'll do 10 x 1min in a local wind tunnel just to get feeling of things. I know it's not required or same thing as an actual jump but I figured it might boost my survival odds by having at least some experience about freefall, body positions and how to move in mid air. I figured I'll do the 30 or so additional jumps on top of the course just to get a little more experience. I feel doing a course of anything and then returning to it, to do it 'for real' after a pause is a recipe for a disaster. Feel free to comment my plan. Then couple of questions, if I may. Does anyone know anything about this place http://www.skydivespain.com/ ? That's the place I have in mind. Can I use this kind of helmet for skydiving? I just got one for Christmas. http://www.dalescycles.com/components/com_virtuemart/shop_image/product/661_comp_black_helmet.jpg Anything else I should know about at this stage? Thanks in advance. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites shropshire 0 #2 February 17, 2014 http://www.dalescycles.com/components/com_virtuemart/shop_image/product/661_comp_black_helmet.jpg Unfortunately, a lot of places will not let you jump as a student with a full face helmet. (.)Y(.) Chivalry is not dead; it only sleeps for want of work to do. - Jerome K Jerome Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PixieUK 0 #3 February 17, 2014 Your post seems an odd mixture of knowledge and confusion (why would anyone buy a cycle helmet for skydiving? Why would you do a skydiving course, then stop jumping?). I suspect this is a troll post but will answer as though you are genuine. No, you will not be permitted to jump with that helmet at Skydive Spain. As a student all the gear you need including jumpsuit, open face helmet, goggles, altimeter, student rig will be supplied. Tunnel time may help with your body position and your stability, assuming you don't succumb to sensory overload when you actually jump. You will have 2 instructors with you in free fall for at least your first 3 jumps anyway so they will assist with your stability by getting you into the right position. They will only let go of you if they think you are already stable and will give you hand signals to help. The ground school training is extremely thorough - if you can absorb everything they tell you, it is possible to progress very rapidly through the AFF levels. Landing area at Skydive Spain is unusual in that it is only in an East - West direction or West - East direction, regardless of what the wind is doing due to extreme hazards to the North and South of the landing area. The prevailing winds mean that this usually still allows for downwind or only slightly crosswind landings but you must land in the direction of the arrow, regardless of the windsock. All of this will be explained in great detail at your briefings. If you are out in Spain for a week, then it would be possible to get your A licence in that time. That is a UK style A-licence which allows you to jump solo. If you want to jump with other people, you will need to do your FS1 coached jumps as well, which will then get you to the equivalent stage of a US A-licence, where you can jump with others who have at least that minimum standard.A mind once stretched by a new idea never regains its original dimensions - Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Kirkk0herra 0 #4 February 17, 2014 PixieUKYour post seems an odd mixture of knowledge and confusion (why would anyone buy a cycle helmet for skydiving? Why would you do a skydiving course, then stop jumping?). I suspect this is a troll post but will answer as though you are genuine. English is my second language so forgive me if something is lost in translation. I got the helmet for mountain biking, I just thought maybe it can be used for skydiving as well. By stopping I meant a pause in skydiving. If I gotta work very hard for -say- 4 months I might not be able to jump at all during that time. And if a person has only done the bare bone basic stuff once and has that 4 month gap and then goes back to do 'a real' solo jump, chances are a lot of stuff has been forgotten. We're looking at 2-3 weeks in Spain. So time might not be the problem, money might. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites catfishhunter 2 #5 February 17, 2014 There are lots of trolls so you have to have thick skin when you get here and ask the same questions that have been asked a thousand times but if you can handle that jumping is going to be a breeze. :) The tunnel will help with the free fall but it will have very little to do with your survival odds. That will come from the training you receive from your instructors. Being an instructor yourself will help IF you remember all the things you hate about your students and DON'T do that to your instructors. Have fun and post a follow up and don't be afraid to ask questions but try to search and see if it has already been asked and answered. MAKE EVERY DAY COUNT Life is Short and we never know how long we are going to have. We must live life to the fullest EVERY DAY. Everything we do should have a greater purpose. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites shift 0 #6 February 18, 2014 I think you got a great plan. Tunnel time is a great resource for anyone, not just new jumpers. Also, getting more experience before taking a break is a good idea. As for equipment, skydive spain will probably have everything you need included in the cost of your AFF course. Call them and make sure. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites ianyapxw 0 #7 February 18, 2014 Also, it might be a good idea to mention to your tunnel instructor you're planning on doing AFF. They might be able to help focus your learning. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Kirkk0herra 0 #8 February 18, 2014 ianyapxw Also, it might be a good idea to mention to your tunnel instructor you're planning on doing AFF. They might be able to help focus your learning. That's a good point! I'll keep that in mind. I'm still a bit confused if the AFF + 30 jumps gets me an A-licence or not. What's involved in getting a FS1 Pixie mentioned? If I can catch a ride up in the sky am I allowed to jump only solo without FS1? If someone has a clear chart of all of these stages with them explained, I'd appreciate one. And thanks for all the answers! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites wolfriverjoe 1,485 #9 February 18, 2014 Kirkk0herra ***Also, it might be a good idea to mention to your tunnel instructor you're planning on doing AFF. They might be able to help focus your learning. That's a good point! I'll keep that in mind. I'm still a bit confused if the AFF + 30 jumps gets me an A-licence or not. What's involved in getting a FS1 Pixie mentioned? If I can catch a ride up in the sky am I allowed to jump only solo without FS1? If someone has a clear chart of all of these stages with them explained, I'd appreciate one. And thanks for all the answers! Different countries have different rules. Pixie is in Britain, and they have fairly restrictive rules for students/beginners. You should probably contact a local DZ and make sure the license you get in Spain will be valid in Finland, or that you would be able to get a valid Finnish license (is there such a thing?) with whatever you get in Spain. They would also be able to answer any questions about what you can and cannot do with any license you get. The instructors in Spain may well be able to answer that too. They often train people from places with "less than ideal" weather. The tunnel instructors or operators might be able to answer those questions too. Many (but not all) are skydivers too. If they don't have the answers, they should be able to point you in the right direction."There are NO situations which do not call for a French Maid outfit." Lucky McSwervy "~ya don't GET old by being weak & stupid!" - Airtwardo Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Blis 1 #10 February 18, 2014 wolfriverjoe ******Also, it might be a good idea to mention to your tunnel instructor you're planning on doing AFF. They might be able to help focus your learning. That's a good point! I'll keep that in mind. I'm still a bit confused if the AFF + 30 jumps gets me an A-licence or not. What's involved in getting a FS1 Pixie mentioned? If I can catch a ride up in the sky am I allowed to jump only solo without FS1? If someone has a clear chart of all of these stages with them explained, I'd appreciate one. And thanks for all the answers! Different countries have different rules. Pixie is in Britain, and they have fairly restrictive rules for students/beginners. You should probably contact a local DZ and make sure the license you get in Spain will be valid in Finland, or that you would be able to get a valid Finnish license (is there such a thing?) with whatever you get in Spain. They would also be able to answer any questions about what you can and cannot do with any license you get. The instructors in Spain may well be able to answer that too. They often train people from places with "less than ideal" weather. The tunnel instructors or operators might be able to answer those questions too. Many (but not all) are skydivers too. If they don't have the answers, they should be able to point you in the right direction. I'm fairly sure that completing AFF in spain gets you A-license in finland... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PixieUK 0 #11 February 19, 2014 To answer your question about the A licence and FS1: http://www.bpa.org.uk/training-and-progression/what-next-after-bpa-a-licence/ BPA A-licence requires a minimum of 18 jumps. 8 AFF levels, each of which must be passed, which may take more than one jump per level, then 10 consolidation solo jumps (no instructor jumps with you but an instructor will check your kit in the plane and tell you when to jump). Once you have qualified, you may jump solo, or with a coach, or with one other person who has at least a C licence at the Chief Instructors discretion. In order to jump with other people at A or B licence level, you must also pass the FS1 (Formation Skydiving) course. There are no set number of jumps to do for this - you need to pass a series of skills and will be signed off for each skill by the coach. A specific FS1 course usually covers about 10 jumps, several one-to-one coached jumps then at least one 3-way jump and at least one 4-way jump (with coaches /experienced skydivers). This is different to the US A-licence system where a minimum of 25 jumps are required and several of those are coached jumps which then allows you to jump with other people. Skydive Spain operates the BPA A licence system then adds FS1 coached jumps if you want as a separate course or as individual jumps (I have done 1 FS coached jump with them and am going back out in March to do more - the weather in the UK is still rubbish ). Check out their website for comprehensive details: http://www.skydivespain.com/experienced/formation.htm So your 30 jumps could just about cover A licence and FS1 but you would need to pass every level pretty much first time, which is a lot of pressure to put yourself under. For the time that you are out there, if the weather is good, you should easily be able to fit in 35+ jumps so perhaps consider doing your A licence, then a couple of FS1 coached jumps then some solos to practice those skills, then a couple more coached jumps and do it that way. I chose to do my CH2 (canopy handling) before worrying about FS1 - the way I see it, once you've jumped out of the plane, playing with other people is optional, landing isn't! So I focused on my flying and landing skills first A mind once stretched by a new idea never regains its original dimensions - Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Kirkk0herra 0 #12 March 6, 2014 Thank you for all the replies. I'm gonna do CH2 instead of FS1. When do you need FS1? Is it needed for simultaneous exit or is it needed if there's other people up in the sky? And for that helmet, are there skydiving specific helmets or can I use my brand new BMX helmet after the course [gopro in mind]? Maybe remove the visor from it. Maybe I'm just cheap and out of cupboard space but I don't want to buy several helmets and mounts if I switch between snowboarding / mountain biking / other sports. Unless it doesn't work because of aerodynamics or for other reasons. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites mattjw916 2 #13 March 6, 2014 that is not a good helmet for skydivingNSCR-2376, SCR-15080 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites skydivecat 3 #14 March 6, 2014 I do not jump in Europe so I will let someone more familiar with the licenses over there answer that question. There are skydiving specific helmets and jumping your BMX helmet is not a good option. While you are a student the dropzone will provide a helmet for you on all jumps. Go, start learning, and ASK YOU INSTRUCTORS what type of helmet would work best for you and for them if you want to buy your own. This is the number one piece of advice we can give you because the people teaching you have the only opinions that matter. Here on the internet they are a dime a dozen and what is allowed accepted one place may not be the same at another. I wouldn't even be thinking about the gopro/mounts yet either, you are getting way ahead of yourself. Most dropzones that I jump at require a 200 jump minimum before you can jump a camera. If you use the search function at the top right of this page you can find the answers to a lot of questions regarding this. Go, enroll, start jumping, start learning, ask questions, but do it from your instructors. Try not to get ahead of yourself and try to keep perspective as to what is important (learning to safely skydive vs gopro mounts and lower costs). Hope this helps, good luck! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites ridebmxbikes 0 #15 March 6, 2014 If its a fullface bmx it probably won't work. They make way better fullfaces for skydiving. If you have a open face bmx/snowboard helmet it could work, just bring it by the dz and show it to the instructors. The worst they will say is no. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PixieUK 0 #16 March 7, 2014 Kirkk0herra Thank you for all the replies. I'm gonna do CH2 instead of FS1. When do you need FS1? Is it needed for simultaneous exit or is it needed if there's other people up in the sky? And for that helmet, are there skydiving specific helmets or can I use my brand new BMX helmet after the course [gopro in mind]? Maybe remove the visor from it. Maybe I'm just cheap and out of cupboard space but I don't want to buy several helmets and mounts if I switch between snowboarding / mountain biking / other sports. Unless it doesn't work because of aerodynamics or for other reasons. In the UK, FS1 is needed if you want to jump out of the plane with other people at the same time to do formations or if you want to jump with a friend who doesn't have at least a C licence. You would need to check with dropzones in other countries what they require. You can jump solo once you have your A licence without needing FS1. Also, in the UK, you cannot jump with a GoPro or other camera until you have at least a C licence (200 jumps, FS1 plus all the other qualifications required for a B licence) and even then, it is at the Chief Instructor's discretion at each dropzone. Again, you would need to check at the specific dropzone where you plan to jump. I doubt you'd be allowed to jump with that helmet, certainly not before qualifying. I know what you mean about a helmet for each sport - I have one for cycling, one for rock-climbing, one for skydiving.... The way I view it, my skull is incredibly important to me and keeping my brains inside it, is a very high priority If that means another £50-100 on a helmet specific to the sport, then so be it. In the overall cost of skydiving, that is going to be one of your cheaper purchases, lol.A mind once stretched by a new idea never regains its original dimensions - Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Kirkk0herra 0 #17 March 8, 2014 Thanks for the replies, once again. We'll sort out the rest once we're actually there. As for the camera I totally understand the limitations. Being a dive instructor we have same kind of rules. But 200 seems a bit harsh for a thing that's mounted on top of your helmet and doesn't tie your hands operating it nor make you focus on the thing. In scuba diving amateur with a camera can get into trouble by entanglement or losing buoyancy while trying to take a shot, dropping it and by making a foolish recovery attempt etc. Still cameras are widely ok on fun dives if you're certified diver even with just 10 dives. But I'm not going to fight over it, just saying. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites airtwardo 7 #18 March 8, 2014 Kirkk0herra Thanks for the replies, once again. We'll sort out the rest once we're actually there. As for the camera I totally understand the limitations. Being a dive instructor we have same kind of rules. But 200 seems a bit harsh for a thing that's mounted on top of your helmet and doesn't tie your hands operating it nor make you focus on the thing. In scuba diving amateur with a camera can get into trouble by entanglement or losing buoyancy while trying to take a shot, dropping it and by making a foolish recovery attempt etc. Still cameras are widely ok on fun dives if you're certified diver even with just 10 dives. But I'm not going to fight over it, just saying. How many minutes of Scuba stuff are IN 10 dives...probably about 300? 200 jumps is around 200 minutes...YOU SCUBA guys DO get it! ~ If you choke a Smurf, what color does it turn? ~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Kirkk0herra 0 #19 March 8, 2014 I was more like referring to the fact that while jumping you don't operate the camera and it doesn't hinder your ability to perform. It's stuck on your helmet and that's it. While diving you have to operate the camera, compensate for buoyancy etc. In general pay a lot of attention to the camera and that creates a safety hazard among inexperienced divers. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Trafficdiver 8 #20 March 8, 2014 How are you going to handle it when it catches on your buddies PC because you cant fly well enough not to slam your head into his side? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Joellercoaster 6 #21 March 9, 2014 Kirkk0herraI was more like referring to the fact that while jumping you don't operate the camera and it doesn't hinder your ability to perform. It's stuck on your helmet and that's it. The reason for the skydiving rule is that this has repeatedly been shown not to be true. Enough people have said "I'll just turn it on and forget it" and then flown into a fence or whatever that we know there is some effect on attention. And since things can happen very quickly, it's considered a bad idea for newer skydivers to have something that impairs their focus and levels of attention to the job. I know it seems like a lot at this point in time, but 200 is not very many skydives (as someone pointed out upthread, that's maybe 3 hours of freefall total). It's a good rule.-- "I'll tell you how all skydivers are judged, . They are judged by the laws of physics." - kkeenan "You jump out, pull the string and either live or die. What's there to be good at? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites wolfriverjoe 1,485 #22 March 9, 2014 Kirkk0herraI was more like referring to the fact that while jumping you don't operate the camera and it doesn't hinder your ability to perform. It's stuck on your helmet and that's it. While diving you have to operate the camera, compensate for buoyancy etc. In general pay a lot of attention to the camera and that creates a safety hazard among inexperienced divers. Right. Why would skydivers be any different than Scuba divers? There's an entire forum dedicated to Photography and Video. There are 2 "sticky" threads at the top of it. They both have a wealth of info on new jumpers and cameras."There are NO situations which do not call for a French Maid outfit." Lucky McSwervy "~ya don't GET old by being weak & stupid!" - Airtwardo Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Kirkk0herra 0 #23 March 9, 2014 That's a good point and I don't have an answer, maybe by keeping adequate space between us?. Both diving and skydiving are inherently dangerous sports. The presence of a camera as a contributing factor can be debated. Usually -at least underwater- it's seldom the rookies who do stupid stuff and get into trouble, 9 times out of ten it's the seasoned veterans who push the envelope and run out of luck. But like I said previously, I'm ok with the rules. I'm a rookie. I'm not here to come up with new rules. I do as I am told. Period. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites manseman 0 #24 March 10, 2014 Kirkk0herra But 200 seems a bit harsh for a thing that's mounted on top of your helmet and doesn't tie your hands operating it nor make you focus on the thing. It does take a bit of focus. Both in the air and while preparing for the jump, on the ground and in the plane before exiting. Make a few jumps and then let us know if you feel that you have any focus to spare in any of those situations. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites ianyapxw 0 #25 March 10, 2014 I think your post is off. He might be legitimately ready before 200 flights to fly with a camera, or he might think he's ready before 200 flights though he isn't. Simply stating Quote make a few jumps and then let us know if you feel that you have focus to spare isn't the way to convince him. To Kirkk0herra, there are a variety of reasons, such as snag hazard or awareness. A jumper can focus too much on getting the shot and losing track of other jumpers or the altitude. edit: at the end of the day, standards are not set by us. It is set by people who are (supposedly) knowledgeable and experienced and act in our best interest. The true reason(s) will only be known by them, everything else is just bits and pieces we hear. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Prev 1 2 Next Page 1 of 2 Join the conversation You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account. Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible. Reply to this topic... × Pasted as rich text. Paste as plain text instead Only 75 emoji are allowed. × Your link has been automatically embedded. Display as a link instead × Your previous content has been restored. Clear editor × You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL. Insert image from URL × Desktop Tablet Phone Submit Reply 0
shropshire 0 #2 February 17, 2014 http://www.dalescycles.com/components/com_virtuemart/shop_image/product/661_comp_black_helmet.jpg Unfortunately, a lot of places will not let you jump as a student with a full face helmet. (.)Y(.) Chivalry is not dead; it only sleeps for want of work to do. - Jerome K Jerome Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PixieUK 0 #3 February 17, 2014 Your post seems an odd mixture of knowledge and confusion (why would anyone buy a cycle helmet for skydiving? Why would you do a skydiving course, then stop jumping?). I suspect this is a troll post but will answer as though you are genuine. No, you will not be permitted to jump with that helmet at Skydive Spain. As a student all the gear you need including jumpsuit, open face helmet, goggles, altimeter, student rig will be supplied. Tunnel time may help with your body position and your stability, assuming you don't succumb to sensory overload when you actually jump. You will have 2 instructors with you in free fall for at least your first 3 jumps anyway so they will assist with your stability by getting you into the right position. They will only let go of you if they think you are already stable and will give you hand signals to help. The ground school training is extremely thorough - if you can absorb everything they tell you, it is possible to progress very rapidly through the AFF levels. Landing area at Skydive Spain is unusual in that it is only in an East - West direction or West - East direction, regardless of what the wind is doing due to extreme hazards to the North and South of the landing area. The prevailing winds mean that this usually still allows for downwind or only slightly crosswind landings but you must land in the direction of the arrow, regardless of the windsock. All of this will be explained in great detail at your briefings. If you are out in Spain for a week, then it would be possible to get your A licence in that time. That is a UK style A-licence which allows you to jump solo. If you want to jump with other people, you will need to do your FS1 coached jumps as well, which will then get you to the equivalent stage of a US A-licence, where you can jump with others who have at least that minimum standard.A mind once stretched by a new idea never regains its original dimensions - Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kirkk0herra 0 #4 February 17, 2014 PixieUKYour post seems an odd mixture of knowledge and confusion (why would anyone buy a cycle helmet for skydiving? Why would you do a skydiving course, then stop jumping?). I suspect this is a troll post but will answer as though you are genuine. English is my second language so forgive me if something is lost in translation. I got the helmet for mountain biking, I just thought maybe it can be used for skydiving as well. By stopping I meant a pause in skydiving. If I gotta work very hard for -say- 4 months I might not be able to jump at all during that time. And if a person has only done the bare bone basic stuff once and has that 4 month gap and then goes back to do 'a real' solo jump, chances are a lot of stuff has been forgotten. We're looking at 2-3 weeks in Spain. So time might not be the problem, money might. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
catfishhunter 2 #5 February 17, 2014 There are lots of trolls so you have to have thick skin when you get here and ask the same questions that have been asked a thousand times but if you can handle that jumping is going to be a breeze. :) The tunnel will help with the free fall but it will have very little to do with your survival odds. That will come from the training you receive from your instructors. Being an instructor yourself will help IF you remember all the things you hate about your students and DON'T do that to your instructors. Have fun and post a follow up and don't be afraid to ask questions but try to search and see if it has already been asked and answered. MAKE EVERY DAY COUNT Life is Short and we never know how long we are going to have. We must live life to the fullest EVERY DAY. Everything we do should have a greater purpose. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
shift 0 #6 February 18, 2014 I think you got a great plan. Tunnel time is a great resource for anyone, not just new jumpers. Also, getting more experience before taking a break is a good idea. As for equipment, skydive spain will probably have everything you need included in the cost of your AFF course. Call them and make sure. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ianyapxw 0 #7 February 18, 2014 Also, it might be a good idea to mention to your tunnel instructor you're planning on doing AFF. They might be able to help focus your learning. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kirkk0herra 0 #8 February 18, 2014 ianyapxw Also, it might be a good idea to mention to your tunnel instructor you're planning on doing AFF. They might be able to help focus your learning. That's a good point! I'll keep that in mind. I'm still a bit confused if the AFF + 30 jumps gets me an A-licence or not. What's involved in getting a FS1 Pixie mentioned? If I can catch a ride up in the sky am I allowed to jump only solo without FS1? If someone has a clear chart of all of these stages with them explained, I'd appreciate one. And thanks for all the answers! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wolfriverjoe 1,485 #9 February 18, 2014 Kirkk0herra ***Also, it might be a good idea to mention to your tunnel instructor you're planning on doing AFF. They might be able to help focus your learning. That's a good point! I'll keep that in mind. I'm still a bit confused if the AFF + 30 jumps gets me an A-licence or not. What's involved in getting a FS1 Pixie mentioned? If I can catch a ride up in the sky am I allowed to jump only solo without FS1? If someone has a clear chart of all of these stages with them explained, I'd appreciate one. And thanks for all the answers! Different countries have different rules. Pixie is in Britain, and they have fairly restrictive rules for students/beginners. You should probably contact a local DZ and make sure the license you get in Spain will be valid in Finland, or that you would be able to get a valid Finnish license (is there such a thing?) with whatever you get in Spain. They would also be able to answer any questions about what you can and cannot do with any license you get. The instructors in Spain may well be able to answer that too. They often train people from places with "less than ideal" weather. The tunnel instructors or operators might be able to answer those questions too. Many (but not all) are skydivers too. If they don't have the answers, they should be able to point you in the right direction."There are NO situations which do not call for a French Maid outfit." Lucky McSwervy "~ya don't GET old by being weak & stupid!" - Airtwardo Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Blis 1 #10 February 18, 2014 wolfriverjoe ******Also, it might be a good idea to mention to your tunnel instructor you're planning on doing AFF. They might be able to help focus your learning. That's a good point! I'll keep that in mind. I'm still a bit confused if the AFF + 30 jumps gets me an A-licence or not. What's involved in getting a FS1 Pixie mentioned? If I can catch a ride up in the sky am I allowed to jump only solo without FS1? If someone has a clear chart of all of these stages with them explained, I'd appreciate one. And thanks for all the answers! Different countries have different rules. Pixie is in Britain, and they have fairly restrictive rules for students/beginners. You should probably contact a local DZ and make sure the license you get in Spain will be valid in Finland, or that you would be able to get a valid Finnish license (is there such a thing?) with whatever you get in Spain. They would also be able to answer any questions about what you can and cannot do with any license you get. The instructors in Spain may well be able to answer that too. They often train people from places with "less than ideal" weather. The tunnel instructors or operators might be able to answer those questions too. Many (but not all) are skydivers too. If they don't have the answers, they should be able to point you in the right direction. I'm fairly sure that completing AFF in spain gets you A-license in finland... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PixieUK 0 #11 February 19, 2014 To answer your question about the A licence and FS1: http://www.bpa.org.uk/training-and-progression/what-next-after-bpa-a-licence/ BPA A-licence requires a minimum of 18 jumps. 8 AFF levels, each of which must be passed, which may take more than one jump per level, then 10 consolidation solo jumps (no instructor jumps with you but an instructor will check your kit in the plane and tell you when to jump). Once you have qualified, you may jump solo, or with a coach, or with one other person who has at least a C licence at the Chief Instructors discretion. In order to jump with other people at A or B licence level, you must also pass the FS1 (Formation Skydiving) course. There are no set number of jumps to do for this - you need to pass a series of skills and will be signed off for each skill by the coach. A specific FS1 course usually covers about 10 jumps, several one-to-one coached jumps then at least one 3-way jump and at least one 4-way jump (with coaches /experienced skydivers). This is different to the US A-licence system where a minimum of 25 jumps are required and several of those are coached jumps which then allows you to jump with other people. Skydive Spain operates the BPA A licence system then adds FS1 coached jumps if you want as a separate course or as individual jumps (I have done 1 FS coached jump with them and am going back out in March to do more - the weather in the UK is still rubbish ). Check out their website for comprehensive details: http://www.skydivespain.com/experienced/formation.htm So your 30 jumps could just about cover A licence and FS1 but you would need to pass every level pretty much first time, which is a lot of pressure to put yourself under. For the time that you are out there, if the weather is good, you should easily be able to fit in 35+ jumps so perhaps consider doing your A licence, then a couple of FS1 coached jumps then some solos to practice those skills, then a couple more coached jumps and do it that way. I chose to do my CH2 (canopy handling) before worrying about FS1 - the way I see it, once you've jumped out of the plane, playing with other people is optional, landing isn't! So I focused on my flying and landing skills first A mind once stretched by a new idea never regains its original dimensions - Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kirkk0herra 0 #12 March 6, 2014 Thank you for all the replies. I'm gonna do CH2 instead of FS1. When do you need FS1? Is it needed for simultaneous exit or is it needed if there's other people up in the sky? And for that helmet, are there skydiving specific helmets or can I use my brand new BMX helmet after the course [gopro in mind]? Maybe remove the visor from it. Maybe I'm just cheap and out of cupboard space but I don't want to buy several helmets and mounts if I switch between snowboarding / mountain biking / other sports. Unless it doesn't work because of aerodynamics or for other reasons. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mattjw916 2 #13 March 6, 2014 that is not a good helmet for skydivingNSCR-2376, SCR-15080 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
skydivecat 3 #14 March 6, 2014 I do not jump in Europe so I will let someone more familiar with the licenses over there answer that question. There are skydiving specific helmets and jumping your BMX helmet is not a good option. While you are a student the dropzone will provide a helmet for you on all jumps. Go, start learning, and ASK YOU INSTRUCTORS what type of helmet would work best for you and for them if you want to buy your own. This is the number one piece of advice we can give you because the people teaching you have the only opinions that matter. Here on the internet they are a dime a dozen and what is allowed accepted one place may not be the same at another. I wouldn't even be thinking about the gopro/mounts yet either, you are getting way ahead of yourself. Most dropzones that I jump at require a 200 jump minimum before you can jump a camera. If you use the search function at the top right of this page you can find the answers to a lot of questions regarding this. Go, enroll, start jumping, start learning, ask questions, but do it from your instructors. Try not to get ahead of yourself and try to keep perspective as to what is important (learning to safely skydive vs gopro mounts and lower costs). Hope this helps, good luck! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ridebmxbikes 0 #15 March 6, 2014 If its a fullface bmx it probably won't work. They make way better fullfaces for skydiving. If you have a open face bmx/snowboard helmet it could work, just bring it by the dz and show it to the instructors. The worst they will say is no. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PixieUK 0 #16 March 7, 2014 Kirkk0herra Thank you for all the replies. I'm gonna do CH2 instead of FS1. When do you need FS1? Is it needed for simultaneous exit or is it needed if there's other people up in the sky? And for that helmet, are there skydiving specific helmets or can I use my brand new BMX helmet after the course [gopro in mind]? Maybe remove the visor from it. Maybe I'm just cheap and out of cupboard space but I don't want to buy several helmets and mounts if I switch between snowboarding / mountain biking / other sports. Unless it doesn't work because of aerodynamics or for other reasons. In the UK, FS1 is needed if you want to jump out of the plane with other people at the same time to do formations or if you want to jump with a friend who doesn't have at least a C licence. You would need to check with dropzones in other countries what they require. You can jump solo once you have your A licence without needing FS1. Also, in the UK, you cannot jump with a GoPro or other camera until you have at least a C licence (200 jumps, FS1 plus all the other qualifications required for a B licence) and even then, it is at the Chief Instructor's discretion at each dropzone. Again, you would need to check at the specific dropzone where you plan to jump. I doubt you'd be allowed to jump with that helmet, certainly not before qualifying. I know what you mean about a helmet for each sport - I have one for cycling, one for rock-climbing, one for skydiving.... The way I view it, my skull is incredibly important to me and keeping my brains inside it, is a very high priority If that means another £50-100 on a helmet specific to the sport, then so be it. In the overall cost of skydiving, that is going to be one of your cheaper purchases, lol.A mind once stretched by a new idea never regains its original dimensions - Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kirkk0herra 0 #17 March 8, 2014 Thanks for the replies, once again. We'll sort out the rest once we're actually there. As for the camera I totally understand the limitations. Being a dive instructor we have same kind of rules. But 200 seems a bit harsh for a thing that's mounted on top of your helmet and doesn't tie your hands operating it nor make you focus on the thing. In scuba diving amateur with a camera can get into trouble by entanglement or losing buoyancy while trying to take a shot, dropping it and by making a foolish recovery attempt etc. Still cameras are widely ok on fun dives if you're certified diver even with just 10 dives. But I'm not going to fight over it, just saying. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
airtwardo 7 #18 March 8, 2014 Kirkk0herra Thanks for the replies, once again. We'll sort out the rest once we're actually there. As for the camera I totally understand the limitations. Being a dive instructor we have same kind of rules. But 200 seems a bit harsh for a thing that's mounted on top of your helmet and doesn't tie your hands operating it nor make you focus on the thing. In scuba diving amateur with a camera can get into trouble by entanglement or losing buoyancy while trying to take a shot, dropping it and by making a foolish recovery attempt etc. Still cameras are widely ok on fun dives if you're certified diver even with just 10 dives. But I'm not going to fight over it, just saying. How many minutes of Scuba stuff are IN 10 dives...probably about 300? 200 jumps is around 200 minutes...YOU SCUBA guys DO get it! ~ If you choke a Smurf, what color does it turn? ~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kirkk0herra 0 #19 March 8, 2014 I was more like referring to the fact that while jumping you don't operate the camera and it doesn't hinder your ability to perform. It's stuck on your helmet and that's it. While diving you have to operate the camera, compensate for buoyancy etc. In general pay a lot of attention to the camera and that creates a safety hazard among inexperienced divers. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Trafficdiver 8 #20 March 8, 2014 How are you going to handle it when it catches on your buddies PC because you cant fly well enough not to slam your head into his side? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Joellercoaster 6 #21 March 9, 2014 Kirkk0herraI was more like referring to the fact that while jumping you don't operate the camera and it doesn't hinder your ability to perform. It's stuck on your helmet and that's it. The reason for the skydiving rule is that this has repeatedly been shown not to be true. Enough people have said "I'll just turn it on and forget it" and then flown into a fence or whatever that we know there is some effect on attention. And since things can happen very quickly, it's considered a bad idea for newer skydivers to have something that impairs their focus and levels of attention to the job. I know it seems like a lot at this point in time, but 200 is not very many skydives (as someone pointed out upthread, that's maybe 3 hours of freefall total). It's a good rule.-- "I'll tell you how all skydivers are judged, . They are judged by the laws of physics." - kkeenan "You jump out, pull the string and either live or die. What's there to be good at? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wolfriverjoe 1,485 #22 March 9, 2014 Kirkk0herraI was more like referring to the fact that while jumping you don't operate the camera and it doesn't hinder your ability to perform. It's stuck on your helmet and that's it. While diving you have to operate the camera, compensate for buoyancy etc. In general pay a lot of attention to the camera and that creates a safety hazard among inexperienced divers. Right. Why would skydivers be any different than Scuba divers? There's an entire forum dedicated to Photography and Video. There are 2 "sticky" threads at the top of it. They both have a wealth of info on new jumpers and cameras."There are NO situations which do not call for a French Maid outfit." Lucky McSwervy "~ya don't GET old by being weak & stupid!" - Airtwardo Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kirkk0herra 0 #23 March 9, 2014 That's a good point and I don't have an answer, maybe by keeping adequate space between us?. Both diving and skydiving are inherently dangerous sports. The presence of a camera as a contributing factor can be debated. Usually -at least underwater- it's seldom the rookies who do stupid stuff and get into trouble, 9 times out of ten it's the seasoned veterans who push the envelope and run out of luck. But like I said previously, I'm ok with the rules. I'm a rookie. I'm not here to come up with new rules. I do as I am told. Period. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
manseman 0 #24 March 10, 2014 Kirkk0herra But 200 seems a bit harsh for a thing that's mounted on top of your helmet and doesn't tie your hands operating it nor make you focus on the thing. It does take a bit of focus. Both in the air and while preparing for the jump, on the ground and in the plane before exiting. Make a few jumps and then let us know if you feel that you have any focus to spare in any of those situations. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ianyapxw 0 #25 March 10, 2014 I think your post is off. He might be legitimately ready before 200 flights to fly with a camera, or he might think he's ready before 200 flights though he isn't. Simply stating Quote make a few jumps and then let us know if you feel that you have focus to spare isn't the way to convince him. To Kirkk0herra, there are a variety of reasons, such as snag hazard or awareness. A jumper can focus too much on getting the shot and losing track of other jumpers or the altitude. edit: at the end of the day, standards are not set by us. It is set by people who are (supposedly) knowledgeable and experienced and act in our best interest. The true reason(s) will only be known by them, everything else is just bits and pieces we hear. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
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