Trying indoor skydiving at iFLY Portland promises a unique blend of adrenaline, skill, and fun—all without jumping out of an airplane. This review will give you an honest look at what to expect, highlighting the pros and potential considerations before booking. We’ve gathered insights from actual visitors to help you decide if this high-flying adventure fits your travel plans.
What we love about this experience is the combination of professional guidance, state-of-the-art equipment, and the chance to fly safely in a controlled environment. Plus, the longer free-fall time—a full 2 minutes—means you get more bang for your buck compared to traditional skydiving. The friendly, knowledgeable guides like Chad, who guests rave about, add a personal touch that makes this tour memorable. The stunning wind tunnel setup with fans blowing at up to 185 mph creates an authentic skydiving feel.
One thing to keep in mind is that this experience isn’t suitable for everyone—people with certain health conditions, pregnant women, or those over 300 pounds should consider other options. Also, as with many adventure activities, there’s a non-refundable policy, so plan your visit accordingly.
This experience is ideal for adventure lovers, family groups with kids over 3, and anyone curious about flying. Whether you’re seeking a thrill, want to try skydiving without the planes or simply looking for an unusual activity in Portland, iFLY offers a safe, exciting option.
Key Points
- Authentic indoor skydiving experience with professional instruction
- Longer flight duration of 2 minutes provides excellent value
- Family-friendly activity suitable for kids over 3 (with supervision)
- State-of-the-art wind tunnel blows up to 185 mph for a realistic feel
- All necessary gear and training included in the price
- Non-refundable policy requires planning and commitment
The Indoor Skydiving Experience at iFLY Portland: What’s in Store
Stepping into iFLY Portland feels like entering a futuristic playground for thrill-seekers. The venue, located at 10645 SW Greenburg Rd, is designed to make first-timers feel comfortable while delivering an adrenaline rush. The experience lasts around 1.5 hours, but the actual flight takes a solid 2 minutes, which is plenty of time to really enjoy that feeling of floating.
The Training and Safety Briefing
Your adventure begins with a comprehensive briefing from expert instructors, like Chad or others, who walk you through the basics of body positioning to control your flight. This one-on-one guidance ensures you’re comfortable before stepping into the wind tunnel. Guests consistently mention the guides’ expertise, with reviews highlighting how Chad was particularly “wonderful” and attentive.
The briefing covers safety protocols, gear usage, and tips to maximize your flying experience. Being well-prepared helps you relax and focus on flying rather than worrying about what’s next.
The Gear That Gets You Ready to Fly
All necessary equipment—flight gear, a flying suit, goggles, earplugs, shoes, and a helmet—is provided at no extra cost. The gear is well-maintained, and the staff are diligent about fitting everything correctly, which adds to the feeling of safety and professionalism. Many reviews mention the staff’s friendly attitude, making even nervous first-timers feel at ease.
The Flight Experience
Once suited up, you’ll step into the pressurized stage area, which is designed to simulate the sensation of free fall. The tunnel’s fans push air at up to 185 mph, creating enough lift to make you feel like you’re soaring. The best part? You get personal assistance from instructors during your flight, helping you maintain body position and make the most of your time in the air.
Guests often describe the experience as “exhilarating” and “more fun than I imagined.” The full 2-minute flight allows ample time to try different body positions, practice turns, and even hover. It feels like a rare mix of control and chaos—like flying a superhero suit!
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic Skydiving Feel Without the Plane
What’s especially appealing about iFLY Portland is how realistic the flight feels. The wind tunnel’s multi-fan system recreates the sensation of free fall, and the professional guidance makes sure your body moves correctly to control your flight. Whether you’re a kid or an adult, this activity caters to all levels of experience.
The Overall Value
At $94 per person, the experience offers excellent value. When you consider the cost of a tandem jump—often upwards of $300—and the significantly shorter free-fall duration, iFLY becomes a compelling alternative. The longer flight time and inclusion of gear and instruction make it a smart choice for a first-timer or someone looking to test the waters before committing to actual skydiving.
Additional Costs and Options
While the base experience is well-priced, extras like photos or videos are not included. You might find these tempting souvenirs after your flight, but they come at an additional cost. For many, the thrill of flying is enough, but if you want to capture the moment, be prepared for extra expenses.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This indoor skydiving adventure is perfect for adventure enthusiasts, families with kids over 3, or anyone looking for a unique activity in Portland. It’s also a fantastic way to overcome the fear of jumping out of a plane in a controlled setting. The activity is designed to be accessible and safe, making it suitable for first-timers and seasoned flyers alike.
People with certain health issues—like back or heart problems—or pregnant women should consult their doctor before booking. The activity is not suitable for those over 300 pounds, but for most others, it offers an exhilarating yet safe adrenaline rush.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early for check-in to avoid feeling rushed.
- Bring your passport or ID for verification.
- Wear comfortable clothing that fits well under the flight suit.
- Expect to spend about 1.5 hours from check-in to finish.
- If you want photos, ask about available options—though note they are not included in the base price.
- The activity is not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly if needed.
Final Thoughts
Choosing iFLY Portland for your first indoor skydiving experience is about capturing that thrill with the safety net of professional guidance and top-tier equipment. It offers longer flight times than traditional skydiving, making it excellent value, especially if you’re curious about flying but hesitant to jump out of a plane.
The activity’s focus on safety, fun, and realism, combined with friendly instructors like Chad, guarantees an experience that’s both exciting and reassuring. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family, or a group of friends, this activity offers an unforgettable moment in Portland.
If you’re after a safe, exhilarating taste of skydiving without the plane, this is a fantastic choice. It’s well-suited for those looking to challenge themselves or simply enjoy a novel adventure while visiting Oregon.
FAQs
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, kids over 3 years old can participate, making it a fun family outing with proper supervision.
How long does the entire experience last?
Around 1.5 hours from check-in to finish, with a 2-minute flight included.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just bring a valid ID or passport; all gear and safety equipment are provided.
Can I buy photos or videos of my flight?
Yes, photo prints and USB options are available for purchase, but they are not included in the base price.
Is the activity wheelchair accessible?
No, the experience is not wheelchair accessible.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing that fits under the flying suit is best; the staff will provide all the necessary gear.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes, participants should weigh less than 300 pounds (136 kg).
Can I book the experience for a large group?
Yes, the venue can accommodate groups, but it’s best to check availability in advance.
What if I need to cancel?
This activity is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.
Is this experience safe?
Absolutely—professional instructors, safety gear, and controlled conditions make it a secure adventure for first-timers and seasoned flyers alike.