Learn skydiving with the MFTS

The dream of one day daring to jump out of a fully functional airplane is probably infinitely far away for many of us. But the Czech city of Znojmo is closer than you think. Near this idyllic town in Moravia, the Military Parachute Troop School (MFTS) has set up camp. And we mean that literally.

Before the Course

If you want to jump out of an airplane, you should be physically healthy. This needs to be checked by a doctor, as a medical certificate is required to participate in the course. Without it, you cannot jump. You will receive the form for the certificate and some more paperwork by email after signing up for the course. There is also a recommended packing list, which can be followed with peace of mind.

Day 1 - Arriving at the MFTS Camp

The green and beige tent city gives you the right basic feeling that you would expect from a military school. After a short tour of the entire area, it's straight to the point.

This means starting with a short instruction on how a real parachute jump works in the classroom, what to pay attention to, and so on.

Then the theoretical practice of packing the parachute starts right away. A very important step, because if done incorrectly here, the parachute won't open correctly, and the jumper only has 3 to 4 seconds to react and 10 seconds until hitting the ground.

So practice, practice, practice. Fortunately, at the MFTS, there are trained parachute packers who have done a really excellent job. You don't need to worry that you have to jump with your self-packed parachute unless you want to.

Paracord and Riggerbands in their natural habitat. For most of us, a very rare sight indeed. The parachute lines are neatly arranged, the well-known and versatile rubber bands keep the lines in place.

Regarding being in shape: they always say that food keeps body and soul together. After this ample dinner, it's off to the field bed and into the land of dreams.

The sleeping tents accommodate up to 10 people. It's always good to have earplugs with you, as there are snorers among us. With ear protection, you can fall asleep better...

Day 2 - Learning is Half the Battle

Early in the morning, we start again with theory, because the first jumps are scheduled for the afternoon of Day 3. So it's better to fill our heads with knowledge about parachute control.

Behavior in case something goes wrong is also extensively discussed. Whether it's landings on or in obstacles or if the parachute doesn't open. Fortunately, there's always a reserve chute available.

Then there's practice on how to correctly put on all the gear. Also not an intuitive activity.

The jump is only half the work. Once on the ground, it's essential to learn and practice the correct way to collect the parachute.

Also what to do if the wind is strong and carries you along the ground with the parachute. You definitely won't be the first skydiver this happens to, promise...

Early in the afternoon, one of the most important exercises begins: the Parachute Landing Fall (PLF). That's the intentional falling during the landing.

After landing with a speed of 5 m/s, equivalent to 18 km/h, you count 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000. Look up at the canopy, it's open and round. Looks very good. The lines are still a bit twisted, but after a brisk tug on the straps, they are released, and you are hanging in the parachute - just like in the textbook.

After falling and having bruises on the hips, from the less skilled attempts, a certain feeling of security sets in: We can do this!

SPARTANAT is the online magazine for Military News, Tactical Life, Gear & Reviews.
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