Too Nervous for Skydiving? Indoor Skydiving Lets You Soar

I know for a fact that I am not yet ready for the actual skydiving experience. Maybe one day, I will take the leap of faith and jump out of a plane but for today, let’s talk about indoor skydiving at iFLY Orlando.

iFLY Orlando is an indoor skydiving venue. It is located at 8969 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. It is a facility that has a vertical wind tunnel that simulates the sensation of skydiving without the need to jump from an airplane. ​There you have it! You can enjoy the freefall but in a controlled environment.

What to Expect

Training Session

To tell the truth, I was more excited than nervous about doing this activity. I figured it was the lesser of two evils; easier than jumping out from an airplane.

Checking in was pretty easy. You would need to sign a waiver. After checking in, you would receive a wristband. I recommend you sign the waiver online, which is what I did as it will save you some time.

When we first arrived, I was able to watch two professionals fly around through the glass before I headed off for my orientation. Watching them make various maneuvers, all I could think of was this is fun and I would like to get as high as possible! Of course my toxic trait was in thinking all those moves and spins they were making, I could do. Easy peasy!

Before we were allowed to enjoy our flight, we had to go through a brief orientation, which was led by a certified instructor. The orientation takes place in groups and the instructor talked to us about body positioning, hand signals, and safety procedures. ​The hand signals were actually quiet important.

Gear Up

After the orientation, we received a flight suit, helmet, goggles, and a head cap. The adults received the red flight suits and children received either a green or a blue flight suit. We had to make sure there were no items on us e.g. jewelry, watches, items in our pockets etc.

Flight Experience

Each standard package includes two flights, each lasting approximately 60 seconds, which is comparable to the freefall portion of a traditional skydive from 14,000 feet. ​You also had the option to purchase a ‘High Flight’ if you wanted to go all the way to the top.

My first flight was rough! I don’t think I was expecting the wind that hit me. The helmet does come with a wind protector but still I felt it. I could barely keep my face together. I made the mistake of smiling since my brother was taking pictures. Big mistake as I struggled to close my mouth after that! All said, it was definitely an enjoyable experience and something I would do again.

I should also mention that you can pay to get your phots, videos and all media from your flight time inside the wind tunnel. You must purchase this before your flight.

Admission and Packages:

The good thing is that compared to outdoor skydiving, indoor skydiving is relatively affordable. You should expect to spend $74-$94 per person.

• Super Saver Package: Available Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays and peak periods), this package offers two flights per person at a discounted rate. ​
• Standard Packages: Pricing varies; it’s recommended to check the iFLY Orlando website for the most current rates and special offers.​

Operating Hours:

Please note that hours may vary; it’s advisable to confirm the current schedule on their website or by contacting them directly.​

Tips for a Great Experience:

• Reservations: I learned this the hard way but if you do not make a reservation, then you run the risk of not being able to book a flight in person. The area is a busy one so they tend to always be booked. So my recommendation is that you book in advance to avoid disappointment especially if you will be arriving with a group.
• Arrival Time: They recommend you arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled flight. The idea is to allow time for check-in and preparation. I would say if you can arrive even maybe 20 minutes earlier would be an even better idea as you will have some time to watch others take their flights and also see the instructors showoff their talent.​
• Attire: You would definitely want to make sure you are in something you feel comfortable wearing. Even though you are in a flight suit, the wind does pack a punch. They also recommend that you wear lace-up shoes.
• Age: iFLY accommodates flyers aged 3 and up.

Have you tried indoor skydiving or taking the leap of jumping out of a plane. Share your thoughts in the comments below.