LEVELS OF TANDEM TRAINING
Levels of tandem training vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Most Tandem courses consist of at least two phases of training, excluding Plexus. USPA enters into training at Phase 2, as a manufacturer’s rating is required first.
PHASE 1: FORMAL APPLICATION
PHASE 2: PRACTICAL APPLICATION
UPT and USPA
The second phase is done on your own. It consists of 5 jumps with licensed skydivers.
Jumps 6-10: These are done with licensed skydivers, with at least 100 jumps that are current. Passenger must be briefed on correct tandem emergency responses. Nice stable exits are a must. This is where you are working on perfecting the exits with different body types, further learning to fly your body in a tandem configuration. Performing correct procedure is mandatory – Passenger must sign the logbook. These jumps must be made as solo tandem jumps, no Formation Skydiving is to be performed.
PHASE 2: PROBATIONARY PERIOD
This requirement is for the UPT Vector and Sigma Tandem ratings only.
The “probationary period” consists of jumps 11-25, where you can take actual students. These jumps can be with first-time students and a witness. The witness must be a licensed skydiver or Sigma/Vector owner who will sign the logbook when they are satisfied with the TI's performance. Again, these jumps must be made as solo tandem jumps, no Formation Skydiving is to be performed.
Once the 25th jump is completed, you will submit your logbook and paperwork to UPT for your Tandem Instructor rating!