iFLY, a global indoor skydiving and body flight experience, opens in New Zealand this month, bringing Kiwis the thrill of freefall without a plane or parachute in sight.
More than 9 million aspiring flight junkies around the globe have experienced the adrenaline rush of tunnel flight in iFLY’s unique glass wind chamber, airborne in winds up to 270kph.
The $15 million tunnel structure, with its 4.5 metre-high glass flight chamber and wall-to-wall cushion of air, has controllable speeds to suit adults and children, and is operated by fully-trained instructors who are all experienced bodyflight athletes.
Approximately 3.6m in diameter with super-strong stainless steel mesh at your feet, iFLY has an exemplary safety record, making it an interactive adventure suitable for all ages, from kids to grandparents.
iFLY Queenstown is a joint project between Sky Venture International, which manufactures iFLY wind tunnels, and local couple Emma and Gary Beyer.
The Beyers have had a long association with the international skydiving community — Emma represented Britain and won the 2006 World Championships, and Gary represented the USA and won the World Championships in 1999.
“Tunnel flight is one of the most blood-pumping and fast-growing sports in the world, with its own global leagues and events,” Ms Beyer says.
“Launching iFLY in New Zealand gives Kiwis a massive opportunity to jump on board with skydiving or tunnel flight as we now have a training facility here.
“Our hope is that we’ll develop a national bodyflight team and compete internationally. We know the sport will take off, literally,” she says.
iFLY offers a progression programme for frequent flyers to hone their skills, through bulk-buying time in the flight chamber.
The adrenalin venture is located in a new, purpose-built building with an on-site cafe and bar on Brecon Street in central Queenstown.
Admission starts at $149 for adults, and includes training, full safety equipment and two flights.