Indoor skydiving is an exhilarating experience that offers the thrill of free fall, minus the need to jump out of a plane. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skydiver looking for a new adventure, indoor skydiving is a unique, accessible, and exciting option for people of all ages and experience levels.
What is Indoor Skydiving?
Indoor skydiving is a simulation of the skydiving experience within a vertical wind tunnel. The tunnel produces a stream of air powerful enough to lift your body and create the sensation of floating, just like during a free-fall from an airplane. This adventure doesn’t require you to jump from a high altitude, but it gives you the adrenaline rush and the feeling of weightlessness.
How Indoor Skydiving Works
The Science Behind It
The key to indoor skydiving is the wind tunnel, which creates a vertical airflow that lifts you off the ground. These wind tunnels have large fans at the bottom or top that generate airflows ranging from 120 to 180 mph, depending on your weight and flying style. This airflow mimics the sensation of free-fall that skydivers experience.
The Technology Involved
Indoor skydiving facilities use advanced technology to ensure smooth and stable airflows. The vertical wind tunnels are made of transparent walls, allowing spectators to watch, while you soar in a safe, controlled environment. The fans and turbines are carefully calibrated to match the flyer’s weight and skill level.
Key Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Skydiving
Indoor and outdoor skydiving share similarities in the experience of free-fall, but they are distinctly different. Outdoor skydiving involves jumping from a plane at 10,000 to 15,000 feet, with the added excitement of the parachute deployment. Indoor skydiving, on the other hand, offers a more controlled and less intimidating environment, where you can fly as long as the wind tunnel operates.
Who Can Participate in Indoor Skydiving?
Age and Weight Requirements
Most indoor skydiving facilities welcome participants as young as 3 years old, making it a family-friendly activity. However, there are weight limits, often around 250 to 300 pounds, depending on the facility. Always check the specific requirements of the location you plan to visit.
Physical Fitness and Health Considerations
Indoor skydiving doesn’t require extreme physical fitness. However, certain health conditions, such as shoulder dislocations or neck injuries, might make the activity unsafe. If you have any pre-existing conditions, it’s best to consult with the instructors beforehand.
The Benefits of Indoor Skydiving
Safe Yet Thrilling
Indoor skydiving offers the adrenaline rush of free-fall, but without the risks of jumping from a plane. The controlled environment and presence of professional instructors make it much safer.
A Great Workout
Surprisingly, indoor skydiving can be an excellent workout. Your core muscles, legs, and arms are engaged to stabilize and maneuver yourself in the air. You’ll feel like you’ve been to the gym after a session!
Ideal for Beginners and Experts Alike
Whether it’s your first time experiencing free-fall or you’re a seasoned outdoor skydiver, indoor skydiving caters to all experience levels. Beginners can learn to fly in a safe environment, while experts can practice advanced techniques and tricks.
Preparing for Your First Indoor Skydiving Experience
What to Wear
Wear comfortable, athletic clothing, and lace-up shoes. You’ll be given a jumpsuit, helmet, goggles, and earplugs to protect you during the flight.
What to Expect from the Experience
Expect to feel a bit of a rush as the wind catches you, but don’t worry—you’ll have a professional instructor guiding you the entire time. They’ll help you position your body correctly to maximize the experience.
How to Mentally Prepare
If you’re nervous, that’s okay! Take a deep breath, relax, and trust the instructors. Visualize yourself flying effortlessly and embrace the feeling of weightlessness.
Step-by-Step Guide to an Indoor Skydiving Session
Check-in and Orientation
You’ll check in at the facility, fill out some paperwork, and watch a safety video to prepare for your flight. Instructors will walk you through basic body positioning and hand signals.
Gear Up
Next, you’ll put on a jumpsuit, helmet, and goggles, and get ready to enter the wind tunnel.
The Flying Experience
The moment you enter the wind tunnel, you’ll feel the air lifting you up, and you’ll float in place with the help of your instructor. Each flight lasts about 1 to 2 minutes, but the exhilaration stays with you long after.
Indoor Skydiving Safety Measures
Trained Instructors
Your safety is a top priority, and every session is supervised by highly trained professionals. These instructors have extensive experience in both indoor and outdoor skydiving.
Safety Gear and Equipment
You’ll be outfitted with all the necessary safety gear, including helmets, goggles, and ear protection. The wind tunnels are regularly maintained to ensure optimal safety.
Popular Indoor Skydiving Destinations Around the World
iFly Locations
iFly is one of the biggest names in indoor skydiving, with locations across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Their facilities are state-of-the-art, and they offer packages for beginners and pros.
Windoor in Europe
Windoor Real Fly is a top-notch facility in Spain, known for its world-class equipment and training programs for both novices and professionals.
Indoor Skydiving Arenas in Asia
Asia is also home to many impressive indoor skydiving arenas, including locations in Singapore and Japan that provide top-tier experiences for flyers of all levels.
The Cost of Indoor Skydiving
Pricing Packages
Indoor skydiving isn’t cheap, but most facilities offer packages that include multiple flights and instructor training. Prices vary but usually start at $50 to $70 for a basic session.
Is It Worth the Money?
Absolutely! The unique experience and the thrill of flying are well worth the cost, especially when compared to the price of traditional skydiving.
Indoor Skydiving for Events and Corporate Groups
Indoor skydiving is a popular choice for team-building events, corporate outings, and even birthday parties. Many facilities offer group discounts and customized packages for larger events.
Can Indoor Skydiving Replace Outdoor Skydiving?
While indoor skydiving offers a similar free-fall experience, it can’t fully replace the adventure of jumping from a plane. Outdoor skydiving provides