iFLY Fort Lauderdale First Time Flyer Experience

iFLY Fort Lauderdale First Time Flyer Experience: A Practical Guide for Adventurers

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying — not just in your dreams but for real — then the iFLY Fort Lauderdale experience might be just what you’re looking for. Located at 11690 W State Rd 84 in Davie, Florida, this indoor skydiving adventure offers an exciting and safe way to feel what it’s like to freefall, minus the plane or parachute. At $117 per person and lasting about 1.5 hours, it’s a well-organized activity designed primarily for first-timers who want to test their courage in a controlled environment.

One thing we love about this experience is how accessible it is for all ages — from curious kids to adventurous teens, and even adults who want to relive their skydiving fantasies without the hefty price tag or risk. The second highlight is how comprehensive the experience is: from personalized training to high-tech gear, you’ll be fully prepared before your flight. However, a potential consideration is the relatively short duration of the actual freefall — just two minutes of flying time — which might feel quick compared to the effort you put in to get there and check-in.

This activity suits those who crave a thrill, enjoy trying new things, or simply want a taste of skydiving without jumping out of an airplane. If you’re visiting Florida and looking for a fun, memorable adventure that also offers a good safety record, then indoor skydiving at iFLY could be a perfect addition to your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Accessible for first-timers with professional one-on-one instruction
Includes comprehensive gear rental and safety equipment
Offers a 2-minute flight in a controlled, safe environment
Suitable for children over 3 years old and most adults
Not for pregnant women, those with certain health issues, or over 300 lbs
Great for thrill-seekers, families, and curious travelers

The Experience: What to Expect at iFLY Fort Lauderdale

Location and How to Get There

Nestled in Davie, Florida, the iFLY indoor skydiving center is roughly a 15-minute drive from downtown Fort Lauderdale. The site is easy to find along State Road 84, with ample parking surrounding the facility. When planning your visit, aim to arrive about 10-15 minutes early — this gives you time for check-in and this ensures your experience starts on time, as it’s prompt and well-organized.

What Happens Before the Flight

Your adventure kicks off with a training session led by an experienced instructor, typically in English. During this briefing, you’ll learn about proper body positions, safety protocols, and what you can expect when you step into the wind tunnel. The professional instructors are known for their personal assistance, guiding you through each step and helping you feel comfortable, even if you’re nervous.

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Gear and Preparation

The package includes complimentary skydive gear, such as a flying suit, goggles, earplugs, shoes, and helmets — everything needed for a safe flight. You’ll also get a locker to store your belongings and can rent additional accessories, like photos or videos, for extra souvenirs (though these aren’t included in the base price). The gear is provided to ensure your comfort and safety while flying and to make the experience feel authentic.

The Flight Itself

Once suited up, you’ll enter the pressurized staging area where the massive fans, capable of blowing wind up to 185 mph (300 kph), create the indoor freefall. The actual flight lasts for about 2 minutes, during which you’ll be guided through different body positions to control your movements. The experience is designed to be accessible and safe for all skill levels, including kids over age 3 and adults.

What Reviewers Say

Many visitors find the experience both thrilling and surprisingly manageable. Claudia from Mexico called it “reserve dicto,” implying she was satisfied with the careful instruction. Kevin from the U.S. described it as “Excellent, excellent, excellent,” indicating a high level of enjoyment. A traveler from Chile noted it was “Very funny,” emphasizing that it’s a fun activity for groups or families. However, some feel that the price is high for the short duration — one reviewer from Chile pointed out it was “Very expensive for the few minutes,” which is a fair point to consider.

Additional Considerations

While the experience is safe and well-structured, there are some restrictions. Pregnant women, people with certain health issues (like heart conditions or prior injuries), and those over 300 lbs are advised not to fly. Participants with removable casts or prosthetics are also discouraged from flying. Being aware of these limitations can ensure you’re prepared to enjoy your flight fully.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in and get comfortably prepared.
Bring a valid passport or ID for check-in.
Dress comfortably — the provided gear and flying suit are designed for ease of movement.
Consider purchasing photos or videos if you want a keepsake, as these are optional add-ons.
If you’re nervous, remember that professional instructors are there to help and ensure safety.

Cost and Value Analysis

At $117 per person, the price might seem steep for just 2 minutes of flying. However, consider that this includes personal instruction, full gear, and a longer freefall time than traditional tandem skydiving—making it a good value for the novelty and safety. For many, the thrill and novelty of defying gravity in a highly controlled environment outweigh the cost, especially since it’s an experience suitable for a wide age range.

Why It’s Worth It

You get a professional-led, safe introduction to indoor skydiving.
It’s a memorable activity that doesn’t require jumping from a plane.
The longer freefall compared to some other alternatives offers a more immersive experience.
It’s perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers looking to try something truly different.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This activity is ideal if you’re seeking a thrilling yet safe adventure. It’s perfect for:

First-time skydivers who want a taste of freefall without jumping from an aircraft.
Travelers with young children over 3 who want a fun, family-friendly activity.
Those fearful of heights but still craving the sensation of flying.
Anyone interested in a novelty experience that blends technology, skill, and fun.

It’s less suitable if you have mobility issues that prevent wearing the gear or if you fall into the restricted categories of pregnant women or those weighing over 300 lbs.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a unique, adrenaline-pumping activity that’s safe, well-organized, and offers a genuine flying sensation, then iFLY Fort Lauderdale delivers. While the flight length is short, the experience’s value lies in the personalized instruction, safety measures, and the thrill of floating in midair. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone curious about what it’s like to be a bird, a superhero, or a skydiver — all without leaving land.

For those visiting the Fort Lauderdale area, this indoor skydiving adventure offers a memorable, fun-filled break from the usual beach or city sights. Just remember to manage your expectations about the duration, but don’t let that stop you from trying this exhilarating experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire experience last?
The activity generally takes about 1.5 hours including check-in, training, gear fitting, and the flight.

What is included in the price?
Your package covers training, flight gear, a flying suit, goggles, earplugs, shoes, helmets, personal assistance from an instructor, locker rental, and 2 minutes of flight time.

Can children participate?
Yes, children over 3 years old can fly, provided they meet the weight and health restrictions.

Is the experience safe?
Yes, the design of the wind tunnel, safety gear, and professional instructors make it a safe activity suitable for most people, with certain restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, and wear comfortable clothing. All necessary gear is provided.

Are photos or videos available?
Yes, you can purchase photo prints, USBs, or videos of your flight for an additional cost.

Are there any restrictions on weight?
Participants weighing between 260-300 lbs will need additional evaluation. Those over 300 lbs are not permitted to fly.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
This activity is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

What if I’m pregnant?
Pregnant women are advised not to fly for safety reasons.

What language is the instruction in?
All instructions are provided in English.

Indoor skydiving at iFLY Fort Lauderdale offers a rare chance to experience the sensation of freefall, with safety and fun at the forefront. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a curious traveler, or someone wanting to check an adventurous box, this activity could be the highlight of your trip. Just prepare to enjoy every minute of your brief but exhilarating flight.

You can check availability for your dates here: