Rt. 83, Ellington Airport, Ellington, CT. 06029 (860) 871-0021   Open -, Hours:,Weekends 8:00 AM - Sunset
USPA Certified Instructors
Learn to Skydive at CPI
AFF Class Schedule
Coming in April 2008
For more info or to sign up contact Kristin Ricciardelli
800-JUMPTX (586-7849)

Student training at Connecticut Parachutist is designed with one goal in mind, to help you earn your USPA A License. All unlicensed skydivers are required to complete the entire student training program before they skydive with other jumpers.  It takes a minimum of 25 jumps to obtain your license.  Make your reservations early, classes are limited. Classes are held regardless of the weather.

The program begins with a 6-8 hour ground class with a limited enrollment of only 6 students. The class will build your confidence, increase your understanding of skydiving, introduce you to the equipment and prepare you for your first solo skydive. By testing each student individually before the jump we insure that you are ready for the challenge.

Connecticut Parachutist offers two methods of training each has its unique differences but both of them will allow you to complete the training and earn your A license

Accelerated Freefall

The  Accelerated Freefall method of skydiving includes practical instruction on climb-out and exit of the aircraft, freefall, canopy flight, landing, and emergency procedures.

The student exits the aircraft with two Instructors. They freefall together for 30 to 50 seconds, depending on jump altitude, typically 10,000 to 14,000 feet. The instructors maintain a grip on the student's harness to provide in-air instruction as well as assisting with stability if necessary. The student then opens the parachute by around 5,000 feet and pilots it to the landing area.

AFF first-jump training and the jump requires more support from the staff than the other methods and is priced accordingly. AFF training and the first jump can be accomplished in 2-3 days. Many schools offer in-air video of the freefall and landing.
Instructor Assisted Deployment (IAD)

The IAD program includes practical instruction on climb-out and exit of the aircraft, freefall, canopy flight, landing, and emergency procedures.

Assisted during climb out by the USPA IAD Instructor, the student exits the aircraft solo with the parachute deploying immediately. Exit and opening occur at 3,500 feet, then the student pilots the parachute to the landing area.

IAD allows a student to progress through the training at a less expensive rate up front compared to the accelerated plan.  It is a safe known method that the military has been using for years.  Sign up now because classes are limited. IAD training and the first jump can often be accomplished the same day.