Honest Review: Fun Flying Wind Tunnel Indoor Skydiving Experience
So, you’re thinking about trying indoor skydiving at a place such as Fun Flying, right? It’s almost certainly all over your social media and could be the “next big thing,” or maybe it’s just one of those “thrill seeking adventures”. But is it genuinely enjoyable? Is it very much worth the money? Is it safe, too? I went to check it out, and here’s my totally upfront take on the Fun Flying wind tunnel experience.
First Impressions: What is Indoor Skydiving Anyway?
Before getting to Fun Flying, is that your, like, introduction to wind tunnel skydiving will have an impact. Maybe you think of something quite dramatic, such as leaping out of a plane. It’s just a giant vertical wind tunnel, and that creates a column of air moving at speeds that, very closely, simulate terminal velocity… that of a skydiver in freefall, of course. This is achieved with seriously strong fans that, more or less, blast air upwards. Is that the goal? Allowing you to float (or, very likely, flail a bit) in mid-air without having to, you know, jump from an airplane.
Indoor skydiving initially popped up as a training method for serious skydivers, and it helps them to work on their technique. Lately, it’s turned into quite a recreational activity in its own right. It offers that thrill of skydiving without that risk… and that parachute… of course. Places such as Fun Flying exist all over, typically in spots packed with tourist attractions. The idea is simple: bring the experience to a broader audience.
The Gear and The Prep: Suiting Up for Flight
At Fun Flying, like your experience begins well before you enter that wind tunnel itself. There’s, arguably, a certain amount of prep involved. First, that check-in. Then comes that getting suited up. You get a jumpsuit, a helmet, plus goggles, and that they really make you feel like you’re about to do something extreme. That suit zips up pretty tight, so, in a way, prepare to feel a little restricted… and that helmet is crucial.
That next part is a briefing session. Very important! They walk you through hand signals. Crucial to get them right, too. Especially those used for adjusting your body position once you are airborne. They explain how to hold your body (more or less like a banana, I think), how to relax (harder than it sounds!), and what not to do (don’t panic… very easy to say). They cover safety guidelines and procedures in pretty clear language, and this helped me feel much better about going in.
In the Tunnel: The Sensation of “Flight”
Okay, this is when things get wild. Stepping into that wind tunnel is almost a sensory overload, actually. That noise hits you first: the rush of that air is incredibly loud. Then that blast of wind itself, and it feels like someone’s pushing you from all directions at once. Getting into the correct position can be a bit tricky. A trained instructor will spot you, too it’s just that their job is to keep you stable and help you get your bearings.
That sensation of floating is so odd at first. You’re fighting that wind, trying to relax, trying to remember the hand signals… so, in some respects, it can feel a little chaotic. With some direction (and maybe a little luck), you start to get it. You balance, and very much experience the feeling of “flying.” Those short bursts are exciting, and just when you begin to feel confident, they signal it’s time to exit.
Was It Worth It? The Fun Factor Evaluated
Did I have fun at Fun Flying’s indoor skydiving? Yes, absolutely. Is that something completely mind-blowing that will change your life? That seems unlikely, but I did leave with a huge smile. A lot of that fun lies in those novel sensations: that sheer power of that wind, the feeling of weightlessness. It’s more of a controlled thrill ride compared to genuine skydiving, arguably.
However, I’m being honest here. Those sessions feel rather short. They might last a minute or two, and that is just as you start to get a sense of what you are doing. Price is another thing. Indoor skydiving isn’t cheap, actually. You are paying a pretty penny for a small amount of “flight” time, so it’s just something to remember. But still, that “wow” factor is real, especially if that is the first time you experience anything like that.
Tips for First-Time Flyers: Make the Most of Your Experience
- Listen carefully to the instructors: Those instructions they provide aren’t just there for show. Is that the key to staying safe and enjoying your flight?
- Relax as much as you can: It is that easier said than done when a gale-force wind is buffeting you? Tension makes that harder to control your body, arguably. Try to stay loose, and, in a way, let that instructor guide you.
- Wear comfortable clothing: Is that something that goes beneath that jumpsuit? Avoid anything too bulky or restrictive. Something simple, such as a t-shirt and leggings or athletic shorts works great, of course.
- Consider going with friends: Sharing those experience with friends or family almost always makes that more fun. Plus, that makes great photos and videos, arguably.
- Book in advance: Particularly during peak season, booking your spot is crucial. It assures you do not miss out.
Who is Indoor Skydiving For? Considerations for Different Flyers
Indoor skydiving has a pretty broad appeal. That is for thrill-seekers and someone trying to experience something new. Families will find it’s very fun, as most locations, such as Fun Flying, cater to a pretty wide range of ages. That minimum age is generally around 3 or 4, anyway, depending on the location. A maximum weight limit can apply, too, of course. You have to confirm that with the specific venue, and this varies, usually it ranges around 250-300 lbs.
It’s usually quite accessible for people with mild physical disabilities, though it is always smart to check. Talk to the venue to see if there are limitations, anyway. People who are seriously afraid of heights might find this simpler to handle. The sensation is still there, and it’s quite different from looking down from a great height.
Beyond the Flight: Other Attractions and Amenities
Fun Flying may offer extras, anyway, extending that experience beyond the wind tunnel itself. Some places provide viewing areas, so that your family and friends watch you “fly.” It offers them photo and video packages, that could capture those moments in the tunnel for a fee. Check it, too, they could even have other activities on site. These range from climbing walls to virtual reality experiences… stuff such as this will make that visit even more worthwhile.
Final Verdict: Should You Take the Plunge?
Indoor skydiving at a spot similar to Fun Flying is probably something worth trying at least once. A novel, thrilling experience with very little risk. I recommend knowing a few things first. Those flights are shorter than expected, so in some respects, manage expectations. Cost can be a bit high, yet a fantastic gift idea for that person in your life seeking a fun day. Overall? Yeah, I’d recommend giving it a go, if you have the opportunity!
