If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to fly without leaving the ground, the iFLY Phoenix First Time Flyer Experience might just be the perfect intro. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on reviews and details, this indoor skydiving session offers a safe and exhilarating taste of free fall—minus the plane or parachute. It’s a great option if you’re looking to try skydiving in a controlled environment or want a memorable adventure that feels just a bit out of the ordinary.
What really stands out is how approachable and well-organized the experience seems—friendly staff, clear instructions, and plenty of safety measures. Plus, with longer freefall times than a tandem jump, you get more bang for your buck. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this isn’t for everyone: kids under 3, pregnant women, and those with specific health issues should skip it. It’s best suited for adventure lovers, families with older kids, or anyone curious about skydiving but hesitant to jump out of a plane.
The only potential concern? As with any activity involving rapid airflow, it might be a bit intimidating at first for some. But if you’re generally healthy and ready for a new thrill, you’ll likely find it well worth the journey. This experience seems to fit those who want a safe, fun, and definitely memorable way to feel like a bird for a few minutes.
Key Points
- Longer freefall time: You get a full 2 minutes of flight, which feels surprisingly substantial.
- All-inclusive gear: Everything from flight suits to helmets and goggles is provided, so no hidden costs.
- Safety first: The experience is designed to be safe and fun, with one-on-one instructor support.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike seem to enjoy it, especially if they’re curious about skydiving.
- Price point: At $118, it offers a good value considering the length of the flight and the quality of the experience.
- Accessible: The experience is available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, fitting into most schedules.
The Details of the iFLY Phoenix Experience
What Is It Exactly?
Imagine defying gravity inside a cutting-edge wind tunnel, where powerful fans simulate the sensation of free fall. At iFLY Phoenix, this is safe, controlled, and incredibly fun. The experience is designed to make you feel like you’re soaring without the need for a plane or parachute. It’s suitable for first-timers, experienced skydivers wanting extra practice, or anyone looking to tick off that bucket list item.
The Itinerary
Once you arrive at the Phoenix location—at 9206 Talking Stick Way in Scottsdale—you check in, ideally arriving 10-15 minutes early to get settled. Your flight begins with a training session that covers safety, hand signals, and what to expect during your flight. After that, you get geared up—a flying suit, goggles, earplugs, shoes, and a helmet—all included in your ticket price.
Your instructor provides personal assistance throughout, guiding you in how to position your body for the best flight experience. The actual flight lasts about 2 minutes, which might not sound long, but many reviewers find it more than enough to feel the adrenaline rush and enjoy the sensation of flying.
The Flight Experience
The wind tunnel can blow up to 185 mph from multiple fans, simulating real skydiving conditions. You’ll be in a pressurized chamber that comfortably fits up to 12 flyers at a time, so it’s social but not overly crowded. Most guests report feeling safe and supported thanks to the instructor’s guidance and the safety measures in place.
More Great Tours NearbyWhy People Love It
We loved the way this experience balances excitement and safety. Several reviewers mention the friendly staff and good instructors that make the whole process smooth and enjoyable. One even shared that their 11-year-old daughter, initially hesitant, ended up doing three extra flights—which speaks volumes about how accessible and fun it can be.
What Could Be Better?
Some might find the price a bit steep, but considering the longer freefall time and professional setup, it’s a fair trade. Also, if you’re looking for professional skydiving or views from a plane, this isn’t the right pick. It’s a simulated skydiving experience, so don’t expect panoramic vistas—just the thrill of flying.
Who Is It For?
This experience is best suited for adventure seekers, families with older kids, or those who want a low-risk introduction to skydiving. It’s not recommended for children under 3, pregnant women, or anyone with specific health concerns like back or heart problems. The activity isn’t suitable for people over 300 lbs (136 kg), so keep that in mind.
Additional Info
- The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including check-in, gear-up, training, and flight.
- It’s available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, making it flexible for most schedules.
- The activity is conducted in English, with friendly staff ready to help.
- Remember to arrive early—10-15 minutes before your scheduled start—to ensure a smooth check-in.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you’re after a unique, adrenaline-pumping activity that lets you “fly” in a safe environment, this indoor skydiving experience offers solid value. It’s especially appealing if you’ve always been curious about skydiving but aren’t quite ready to jump out of a plane. The longer freefall duration and professional guidance make it stand out from other thrill activities in the area.
For families with older children or teens who want a memorable adventure, it’s a fantastic way to bond over something exciting. The friendly staff and detailed instructions help make the experience accessible, even for beginners. Keep in mind, if your main goal is panoramic views or serious skydiving, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
This activity provides a safe, exhilarating taste of flight that’s likely to leave you smiling long after you leave the tunnel. It’s a well-organized experience that balances fun with professionalism—perfect for first-time flyers eager to try something new.
iFLY Phoenix First Time Flyer Experience
FAQ
Is the iFLY Phoenix experience suitable for children?
Yes, children generally enjoy it, especially if they’re older than 3 and comfortable with high-energy activities. The experience is designed to be safe and fun for a wide age range.
How long does the activity take?
The total experience lasts about 1.5 hours, which includes check-in, gear-up, training, and the actual 2-minute flight.
What should I wear?
You’ll be provided with a flying suit, but it’s best to wear comfortable clothes underneath, like athletic wear or casual clothing. Closed-toe shoes are required and are included.
Can I get photos or videos of my flight?
Yes, photos and videos are options you can purchase separately—either a print or a USB with all images and clips.
Is the experience safe?
Absolutely. The activity is designed with safety in mind, including safety gear, instructor supervision, and clear instructions.
What’s the maximum weight limit?
Participants over 300 lbs (136 kg) are not suitable for this activity.
Is the activity available in different languages?
The instructor speaks English, and the activity is conducted in English.
What if I’m pregnant or have health issues?
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, or those with back or heart problems. Always consult a doctor if you have concerns.
Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to get to the Scottsdale location on your own or arrange for parking nearby.
If you’re looking for a thrilling, well-organized introduction to indoor skydiving that offers more flight time than many others, iFLY Phoenix might just be your next great adventure. It’s a fun, safe way to defy gravity and feel the rush of flying—great for first-timers, thrill-seekers, and curious minds alike.
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