Austin iFLY Skydiving Simulator with Instructor and Gear: A Practical Look at a Unique Indoor Adventure
If you’ve ever dreamt of the feeling of freefalling from a plane but aren’t quite ready to jump out of one, the Austin iFLY Skydiving Simulator offers a compelling alternative. This indoor wind tunnel experience combines the adrenaline rush of skydiving with the safety and convenience of a controlled environment. It’s a chance to defy gravity, learn some skydiving basics, and have a good time—without the weather worries or hefty price tag of a real skydive.
What we love about this experience is how it manages to make skydiving accessible for all levels—kids, teens, and adults alike—thanks to professional instruction and top-notch gear. Plus, the longer freefall time of around 2 minutes offers more bang for your buck than a typical tandem jump. However, it’s worth noting that the total duration is around 1.5 hours, so plan your day accordingly if you want to squeeze in other activities. This tour is best suited for curious thrill-seekers, families with older kids, or anyone intrigued by the idea of flying but hesitant about jumping from a plane.
Key Points
- Safe, controlled environment: Experience the sensation of freefall without the risks of actual skydiving.
- Professional instruction: Fully guided by certified instructors who help you control your body in the tunnel.
- Affordable adventure: A fraction of the cost of a tandem jump, with longer freefall time.
- All gear included: Flight suits, goggles, earplugs, helmets, and lockers are provided.
- Accessible for most: Suitable for those over 3 years old, but with weight and health restrictions.
- Memorable experience: An authentic feeling of flying that leaves most smiling.
What to Expect from Your Indoor Skydiving Experience
When you arrive at the Austin iFLY facility, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and guided through the process. The experience begins with a safety briefing and instruction from your dedicated flight instructor—think of it as a mini classroom session that’s straightforward and easy to follow. The goal here isn’t just to have fun but to do so safely, with clear guidance on how to get into different body positions to control your flight.
Once suited up in the provided gear—a flying suit, goggles, earplugs, and a helmet—you’ll step into the wind tunnel. This is where the magic happens. The state-of-the-art technology generates a powerful vertical airflow, simulating the sensation of freefall from a plane. Unlike the quick few seconds of a tandem skydive, you’ll enjoy around 2 minutes of continuous flying time, which gives you a real sense of what it might be like to fly solo.
Many reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the instructors. One reviewer from Virginia noted, “The team is very nice and the flight is great,” reflecting that the staff genuinely makes the experience approachable. Another from Guatemala called it “Very good,” emphasizing that it’s an enjoyable, well-coordinated activity.
You can check availability for your dates here:The Details: How It Works and What It Means for You
The schedule is flexible, with sessions typically available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, making it easy to fit into a busy itinerary. The activity lasts about 1.5 hours, including training, gear-up, and flying time. While it’s a compact experience, the value is clear—you’re getting a full, immersive flying session that is both safe and surprisingly realistic.
Cost-wise, at $102 per person, it’s a solid deal considering that tandem skydiving can cost several times more and usually lasts just about a minute of freefall. The longer freefall time here provides a more satisfying taste of what freeflying might be like—plus, you get expert coaching throughout.
One point to consider: photos are not included in the price, so if you want keepsakes of your flight, you’ll need to bring your camera or ask about photo packages separately. A reviewer mentioned, “It’s good! But maybe a bit expensive for 2 times 1 minute,” hinting that some may see the price as slightly high for the duration, but the extended freefall makes up for it.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Austin.
Accessibility and Restrictions
This experience is designed to be inclusive but has some restrictions based on health, weight, and age. Flyers must be over 3 years old and under 260 lbs; those over 300 lbs cannot fly, and weights between 260-300 lbs require staff evaluation. Pregnant women, people with certain medical conditions, or individuals with hard casts or prosthetics that cannot be removed are advised not to participate.
The good news is that the activity is wheelchair accessible, and the staff seem well-informed about safety precautions. If you have concerns about your health or mobility, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.
The Experience in Perspective
From the reviews and descriptions, the most striking aspect is how well the experience balances excitement, safety, and instruction. The professional guides make sure everyone understands what to do and helps create a sense of confidence. The real-time feedback, coupled with the simple yet high-tech environment, means you’re not just “paying for a thrill” but also gaining some basic flying skills—albeit in a controlled setting.
It’s clear that many visitors leave with a big smile—one reviewer from the US said, “The team is very nice and the flight is great,” and another described it as “challenging for adults, exciting for teens, and realistic for skydivers.” This shows how versatile and engaging the experience can be, whether you’re a total beginner or someone with skydiving experience.
Who Will Love This?
This activity is perfect for curious travelers who want a taste of the skydiving experience without the logistical and financial commitment of a real jump. Families with kids over 3 might find it a fun, adrenaline-filled outing, especially with the safety measures in place. Adventure seekers who love trying new things will enjoy the challenge, while those with a fear of heights might find it a manageable way to get a thrilling adrenaline rush.
It’s also a great option if you’re short on time but still want something memorable. The 1.5-hour window makes it a quick, impactful activity that can be combined with other sightseeing in Austin.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Thoughts
In summary, the Austin iFLY Skydiving Simulator strikes a good balance of fun, safety, and value. It offers an authentic-sounding freefall experience that’s accessible for many, especially with expert guidance and quality gear. The longer freefall time means you get more of a feel for what real skydiving might be like, all without the risks or costs associated with jumping out of a plane.
While the price might seem steep for some, the value lies in the quality of the experience and the professional instruction that comes with it. It’s a fantastic choice for those curious about skydiving, families, or anyone looking to add a memorable adventure to their Austin trip.
If you’re after an exciting, relatively affordable taste of flying that’s safe and fun, this indoor skydiving experience is well worth considering. Just remember to check the restrictions if you have health concerns or weight limitations.
Overall, it’s a lively, well-run activity that delivers on its promise of genuine fun and a little taste of the sky.
FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children over 3 years old can participate, but they need to meet weight and health requirements.
How long does the entire experience last?
The total duration is about 1.5 hours, including training, gear-up, and flight time.
Are photos included?
No, photos are not included in the price. You might want to bring your own camera or ask about separate photo packages.
What should I wear?
Bring your ID, and wear comfortable clothing. The provided flight gear includes a suit, helmet, goggles, and earplugs.
Can I fly if I weigh over 300 lbs?
No, individuals over 300 lbs are not able to fly. Those between 260-300 lbs require evaluation.
Is this activity accessible if I use a wheelchair?
Yes, the facility is wheelchair accessible.
Do I need experience in skydiving?
No prior experience is needed; professional instructors guide you through the process.
This indoor skydiving experience in Austin is a practical and exhilarating option—perfect for anyone looking to challenge their fears, learn new skills, or just have a memorable day.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Austin
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