Indoor skydiving is a simulated skydiving experience that allows people to feel the sensation of freefalling without jumping out of an airplane. It uses a vertical wind tunnel—a large, enclosed chamber that generates a powerful upward stream of air. This air current mimics the wind resistance experienced during a real skydive, letting participants “fly” horizontally in mid-air. Unlike outdoor skydiving, which requires aircraft and specific weather conditions, indoor skydiving takes place entirely indoors. The environment is controlled, making it accessible to people of various ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced skydiver looking to practice skills, indoor skydiving offers a safe and thrilling way to enjoy the sport.
How Does Indoor Skydiving Work?
The Wind Tunnel
The core of indoor skydiving is the wind tunnel. These tunnels come in different sizes, but most consist of a vertical tube made of clear acrylic or mesh, allowing spectators to watch the action. The bottom of the tunnel houses powerful fans and motors that generate wind speeds between 110 to 180 miles per hour (177 to 290 kilometers per hour). The speed can be adjusted based on the participant’s weight and skill level.
The Freefall Simulation
When you enter the tunnel, you step onto a platform at the bottom. The instructor will guide you into a proper body position: lying flat on your back or stomach, with your arms and legs slightly spread to create surface area. The upward wind catches your body, lifting you off the platform and allowing you to float in mid-air. By adjusting your body posture—curving your back, bending your knees, or tilting your head—you can control your movement, such as moving up, down, or spinning.
Safety Features
Wind tunnels are designed with safety in mind. Most have a soft landing area at the bottom of the tunnel, and some larger facilities have multiple chambers to separate beginners from more experienced flyers. Instructors are always present inside or outside the tunnel to provide guidance and ensure participants stay safe. Additionally, participants wear protective gear like helmets, goggles, and flight suits to minimize the risk of injury.
Who Can Try Indoor Skydiving?
Indoor skydiving is surprisingly inclusive. Unlike outdoor skydiving, which often has age restrictions and requires physical fitness, indoor skydiving can be enjoyed by:
Children: Many facilities allow kids as young as 3 or 4 years old to try indoor skydiving, with special sessions and smaller wind speeds.
Adults of all ages: Whether you’re in your 20s or 70s, if you’re in reasonable health, you can give it a try.
People with disabilities: Some wind tunnels offer adaptive equipment and specialized instruction for individuals with physical disabilities, making it accessible to a wider range of people.
Beginners: No prior skydiving experience is necessary. Instructors will teach you the basics of body positioning and movement before you enter the tunnel.
Experienced skydivers: Professional skydivers often use indoor wind tunnels to practice advanced maneuvers, such as flips and turns, in a controlled environment.
Benefits of Indoor Skydiving
Safety
One of the biggest advantages of indoor skydiving is its safety record. Unlike outdoor skydiving, where there are risks associated with parachute malfunctions or unpredictable weather, indoor skydiving eliminates these variables. The controlled environment and constant supervision by instructors make it a low-risk activity. According to industry reports, serious injuries in wind tunnels are extremely rare, making it a great option for those who want to experience the thrill of skydiving without the inherent dangers of outdoor jumps.
Accessibility
Indoor skydiving is available in many cities around the world, making it easier to access than outdoor skydiving, which requires access to an airfield and suitable weather conditions. You don’t need to travel to a remote location or wait for the right day to try it. Many wind tunnels are located in urban areas, often near entertainment complexes or tourist attractions, making it a convenient activity for a day out with friends or family.
Cost-Effective
While the cost of indoor skydiving varies depending on the facility and the length of your session, it can be more cost-effective than outdoor skydiving in the long run. A typical indoor skydiving session lasts between 1 and 5 minutes, which is equivalent to several minutes of freefall in an outdoor skydive. Outdoor skydiving, on the other hand, requires paying for airplane rides, parachute equipment, and instruction, which can add up quickly. For those who want to practice and improve their skills, indoor skydiving offers a more affordable way to get multiple “freefall” sessions in a single day.
Weatherproof: Outdoor skydiving is heavily dependent on weather conditions. Rain, wind, or low cloud cover can delay or cancel jumps, leaving skydivers waiting around for hours. Indoor skydiving, however, is not affected by the weather. You can enjoy the experience rain or shine, making it a reliable activity for planning events or outings.
Skill Development
For those interested in pursuing outdoor skydiving, indoor skydiving is an excellent training tool. It allows beginners to learn and practice the fundamental body positions and control skills needed for a safe skydive. Experienced skydivers can use wind tunnels to refine advanced techniques, such as formation skydiving or freefly maneuvers, without the cost and logistical challenges of outdoor training. Some studies have shown that training in a wind tunnel can accelerate skill development, as participants can focus on specific movements without the distractions of outdoor variables like wind direction or altitude changes.
Where Can You Experience Indoor Skydiving?
United States
iFLY Indoor Skydiving: With locations across the U.S., including major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston, iFLY is one of the largest indoor skydiving chains. They offer sessions for all skill levels, including kids’ camps and advanced training programs.
SkyVenture Orlando: Located in Florida, SkyVenture Orlando features a large wind tunnel and is part of a larger entertainment complex that includes a water park. It’s a popular destination for families and tourists.
Flyaway Indoor Skydiving: Based in San Francisco, Flyaway offers both indoor skydiving and outdoor skydiving training, making it a great option for those looking to transition to outdoor jumps.
Europe
Airkix: With locations in the UK (Manchester and Milton Keynes) and Germany (Düsseldorf), Airkix is a well-known indoor skydiving facility. They offer group bookings, private sessions, and even corporate events.
FlyStation: Located in Paris, France, FlyStation is a modern wind tunnel that caters to both beginners and experienced flyers. It’s situated in a convenient location near the city center.
Bodyflight Bedford: In the UK, Bodyflight Bedford is a popular destination for serious skydivers looking to train, but they also welcome beginners with open arms.
Asia
iFLY Singapore: Situated in the Sentosa Island resort area, iFLY Singapore offers a unique indoor skydiving experience with views of the city. It’s a top attraction for tourists visiting the country.
Windoor Realfly: Located in Tokyo, Japan, Windoor Realfly is a state-of-the-art wind tunnel that offers both indoor skydiving and virtual reality experiences. It’s a great place to try something new in the heart of the city.
iFLY Dubai: In the UAE, iFLY Dubai is housed in a massive facility and is known for its high-quality instructors and advanced equipment. It’s a popular activity for both locals and visitors.
Australia and New Zealand
iFLY Sydney: In Australia, iFLY Sydney is located in the Entertainment Quarter, making it easy to combine with other activities. They offer sessions for all ages and skill levels.
Velocity Indoor Skydiving: Based in Auckland, New Zealand, Velocity is the country’s first indoor skydiving facility. It’s a great option for adventure seekers visiting the city.
Conclusion
Indoor skydiving offers the thrill of freefall in a safe, controlled environment for beginners and experienced skydivers alike, with wind tunnels worldwide making it easy to experience flight without jumping from a plane. If outdoor skydiving feels intimidating, try indoor skydiving—friendly instructors, modern equipment, and supportive environments help you float in the tunnel quickly, potentially sparking a new passion. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a unique group activity, indoor skydiving provides a memorable experience for all ages. Next time someone asks “Where is indoor skydiving?”, simply say it’s available in cities globally, ready for anyone brave enough to try the wind tunnel thrill.