Montgomery Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate
Imagine floating weightlessly, feeling a rush of adrenaline without ever leaving the ground. That’s exactly what you get at iFLY Montgomery, a top-notch indoor skydiving facility in Frederick, USA. For $96 per person, you’ll enjoy about 75 minutes of fun, learning, and flying—perfect for thrill-seekers who prefer their adventure a little more controlled, or for those who just want to see what all the fuss about skydiving is without jumping from a plane.
What we love about this experience is first, the expert guidance from friendly, knowledgeable instructors who make everything clear and safe — no previous experience needed. Second, the personalized attention during each flight means you’ll get two separate chances to fly in the vertical wind tunnel, with someone guiding you each step of the way.
One possible consideration is that this experience takes about an hour and 15 minutes, so it’s not a quick stop. Also, if you’re heavier than 260 pounds, you’ll need to check with the staff about your eligibility. But overall, this activity suits adventurous travelers of nearly all ages, especially those curious about skydiving but hesitant to jump from a plane. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for an exciting, safe, and memorable experience.
Key Points
- Accessible thrill: No jumping from an airplane necessary, just floating on a powerful wall-to-wall air cushion.
- All-included: Your package covers two flights, full instruction, gear, and a personalized certificate.
- Expert guidance: Certified flight instructors are with you during every flight, ensuring safety and confidence.
- Great for all ages: From 3 years old to seniors, with some size restrictions, this experience is designed to be inclusive.
- Time-efficient: Total session duration is around 75 minutes, making it a perfect half-day adventure.
- Authentic souvenir: You’ll walk away with a certificate celebrating your flight, a nice keepsake of your airborne moment.
Planning more time in Frederick? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Detailed Look at the Montgomery Indoor Skydiving Experience
When we picture skydiving, most of us think of jumping out of an aircraft high above the clouds. But for those who want that thrill without the vertiginous drop, indoor skydiving offers a surprisingly authentic substitute. At iFLY Montgomery, the experience begins with a straightforward check-in at their facility in Gaithersburg, Maryland, about a 15-minute drive from Frederick, if you’re staying there.
The Arrival and Preparation
Upon arrival, you’ll notice how organized everything is; the staff is welcoming and eager to help you get ready. You’ll be asked to wear comfortable clothes—think pants and a shirt without a collar—and lace-up sneakers or running shoes. Long hair needs to be braided or secured in a low bun, especially for those with longer hair. Then, you’ll get suited up in a flight suit, which isn’t just for looks—it’s designed for safety and ease of handling by your instructor.
The Training Session
Next comes the training session, a crucial part that ensures you understand how to float safely and enjoyably. Your certified instructor, who’s trained specifically for first-timers, will guide you through the proper flying position and safety tips. As Sheila from one review put it, “Wayne was awesome! He was knowledgeable, fun and made us feel safe!” This personalized guidance is what sets indoor skydiving apart from just watching videos online; your instructor is there to ensure every moment is smooth and confidence-boosting.
The Flight Experience
Once inside the vertical wind tunnel—an enclosed chamber with powerful fans at the top—the real fun begins. The wind is gradually increased until it reaches between 130 to 175 mph, creating a gentle but firm wall of air that supports you off the ground. The tunnel’s design, with a wall-to-wall cushion of air, keeps flyers stable and safe, even if it’s your first time flying.
During your two separate flights, each lasting about 60 seconds, you’ll be guided by your instructor in a one-on-one session. That means you’ll get plenty of time to experience the sensation of flying—an easily describable feeling of floating, with no falling or jumping involved. One reviewer, Sheila, described it as “the joy of flying is something you have to experience for yourself,” emphasizing how genuine and memorable the sensation is.
What Makes This Experience Special
What truly makes this activity stand out is the personalized attention. Each flyer gets individual guidance, which really helps beginners feel secure and confident. On top of that, you’ll receive a personalized certificate at the end—an authentic souvenir to commemorate your achievement.
Duration and Group Experience
From start to finish, including check-in, training, flying, and receiving your certificate, you’re looking at about 75 minutes. The session can accommodate up to six people at a time, making it a fun activity for small groups or families. Watching friends or family fly from the observation area adds to the enjoyment, especially if you’re traveling with kids or non-participants.
Cost and Value
At $96, the cost breaks down to about $48 per flight, which for the thrill and instruction you get, is a sound deal. Compared to actual skydiving from a plane, this indoor version offers a fraction of the cost but still delivers a genuine flying sensation. The inclusion of gear, instructor guidance, and the certificate all add to the overall value, making it a worthwhile splurge for a special day.
Safety and Limitations
The safety record of iFLY Montgomery is solid, thanks to their well-designed wind tunnel and highly trained staff. However, certain health conditions, like neck, back, heart, or shoulder issues, pregnancy, or wearing a hard cast, are reasons to skip. Weight restrictions also exist—participants should weigh less than 300 pounds, with some restrictions for those between 260-300 pounds that need staff evaluation.
What Could Be Better?
The main consideration here is the duration—it’s a short but intense experience, so if you’re looking for a full-day adventure, you’ll need to plan accordingly. Also, while most find the process safe and smooth, some might find the weight restrictions a limitation, especially for larger travelers.
Who Should Book This?
This activity is ideal for adventurous families, couples celebrating a special moment, or curious travelers who want to try skydiving in a safe, controlled environment. Kids as young as 3 are welcome, provided they meet height and weight requirements, and the friendly guides ensure everyone feels comfortable. It’s a perfect intro for those unsure about jumping from an airplane but eager to feel the thrill of flight.
The Sum Up
If you’re after an experience that combines adventure, safety, and a touch of bragging rights, indoor skydiving at iFLY Montgomery hits the mark. It’s a chance to defy gravity, learn from expert guides, and walk away with a tangible souvenir of your flight. This activity is especially suited for those who want a memorable thrill without the risks or costs of traditional skydiving.
The personalized guidance and authentic flying sensation make this activity a standout choice for curious travelers and thrill-seekers alike. Plus, it’s a superb way to add a little adrenaline to your trip, especially if the idea of jumping out of a plane is a bit intimidating but the desire to experience flight remains strong.
Overall, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to try something truly different, indoor skydiving at Montgomery’s iFLY offers a safe, fun, and memorable adventure that’s worth every penny.
FAQ
How does the Montgomery Indoor Skydiving Experience work?
The vertical wind tunnel draws air through fans at the top, creating a smooth, wall-to-wall cushion of air that allows you to float. The air is compressed and sped up before re-entering the chamber, enabling you to fly without jumping from a plane.
How safe is the Montgomery Indoor Skydiving Experience?
Thanks to the chamber’s design—with a wall-to-wall airflow—and the presence of trained, certified instructors, the activity is quite safe. Your instructor will be with you throughout, making sure your experience is both fun and secure.
What is a Wind Tunnel?
A wind tunnel is essentially a machine that moves large amounts of air. The vertical version creates a steady column of fast-moving air high enough to support a person, letting them float safely and realistically mimic skydiving.
How early should I arrive?
Arrive about 10-15 minutes before your scheduled time. This allows for check-in, gear fitting, and a brief training session to prepare you for flying.
Do I fly alone or with a group?
You’ll be flying one at a time in the chamber, but there can be up to six people per session. You and your friends or family will be part of the same group, watching each other fly.
How long is each flight?
Each flight lasts 60 seconds. The entire experience from check-in to certificate takes roughly 75 minutes.
Can I bring family or friends to watch?
Absolutely. They’re welcome to observe from the designated viewing area while you fly.
This indoor skydiving experience offers a safe, exhilarating taste of what it feels like to fly—without the need for an aircraft or a parachute. It’s an adventure perfect for those eager to try something different on their trip, with guides who genuinely care about making it fun and safe. If you’re looking for a memorable, hands-on thrill that’s suitable for almost all ages, this activity is well worth considering.