This was amazing! There are not enough excited words to describe how much I enjoyed this experience. My mom bought my dad and me a flight pass for 2 one minute flights each last Christmas. Life kept getting in the way, but fortunately the passes/gift cards/sessions do not expire. We went tonight, and this is the closest I have ever come to my dreams of flying. The building is clean and neatly organized. When you arrive, you sign in and do your paperwork, including signing your waivers. Then you go upstairs to the flight area and watch a short safety video, and listen to a short lecture from your flight trainer on body posture, hand signal communication (very simple, no worries here), and safety.
Our main instructor was Kirk Artman, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. He was lovely. Fun, personable, and easygoing, but a very clear and direct communicator. I wasn't nervous at all, but saw him going out of his way to be lighthearted and make a few of the more nervous people comfortable and calm. He didn't even balk when a cute little girl kicked him in the head. That's patience. Your instructor will help you find the properly sized suit, helmet, and goggles. You'll be provided earplugs, as well. Use them according to the instructions! Also, don't leave any long hair free flowing, if possible. I had flat braids under my helmet, and that worked well, but next time I will also tuck up the long ends (so tangled!). The tunnel definitely gives you some sensory overload, as it is loud and unlike anything I've ever felt before. Kirk's signs and instructions were very clear, but sometimes I had trouble trying to get my body to listen to my brain! Still, I felt that I was able to improve each time I had my turn. We had some extra time at the end, so were able to buy an extra flight ($20). I even was able to go up quite a bit higher by myself, by then! If you have the inclination, I definitely recommend getting the "fly high" add-on. For $10, the trainer will fly you up to the very top of the tunnel three times. SO FUN. Definitely felt like flying. That part was handled by a separate trainer on our trip, Javier, I believe. He was also kind and professional, and clearly knew what he was doing. I felt completely safe through the whole experience.
At the end, Kirk personally demonstrated some tunnel tricks for us, including what looked like running straight up the wall. Someday! We purchased 6 min flight/training sessions at the end, with definite plans to go back and improve. When you're done, you get flight certificates from your trainer, which I liked. It's a cute souvenir. I also kept my wristband. The only downside is the expense, obviously. However, for the uniqueness of what it is, and the sheer joy of flight, I find the price doable, even if not every day. If you can, do this! And ask for Kirk. Seriously, he's awesome. read more