Experience thrills at iFLY: Your ultimate guide to indoor skydiving in Manchester

For those seeking the exhilaration of freefall without the necessity of leaping from an aircraft, indoor skydiving offers a spectacular alternative. Located in Trafford Park, iFLY Manchester features a state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnel designed to simulate true skydiving in a controlled, safe environment.

Whether a curious beginner or an experienced flyer looking to refine techniques, this comprehensive guide covers preparation, pricing, packages, and essential insider tips to ensure a highly successful flight.

iFLY Manchester

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Website

Contact details: +44 330 191 3966

Operating hours:

• Monday to Sunday: 9 am to 10 pm

Price: $$

iFLY Manchester is the premier destination in Trafford Park for indoor skydiving, providing a thrilling experience for beginners and experienced flyers alike.

The facility features a high-tech vertical wind tunnel that replicates the sensation of freefall, allowing participants to float in the air exactly as they would during a traditional skydive.

Pro tip:

Arrive early to complete the pre-flight training session, which is designed to prepare beginners and build confidence before entering the wind tunnel.

Preparing for Your Indoor Skydiving Experience

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To ensure a seamless and enjoyable flight at iFLY Manchester, proper preparation is essential. The following details outline the necessary steps regarding clothing, equipment, and readiness.

What to Wear

Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended, avoiding overly loose garments that could catch in the wind tunnel. Secure lace-up trainers are required; open-toed shoes and sandals are not permitted. Long hair should be tied back in a low style to ensure a comfortable fit under the safety helmet.

What to Bring

All jewellery, watches, and loose accessories should be left at home, and pockets must be completely emptied before the flight. iFLY provides all necessary gear, including a flight suit, helmet, goggles, and optional earplugs for comfort during the session.

Mental and Physical Prep

Participants are guided by qualified instructors throughout the entire experience. While high fitness levels are not required, being in good general health is recommended. A light meal before flying is suitable, though heavy food should be avoided.

Pro tip:

Arriving at least 30 minutes before the scheduled flight time ensures a relaxed check-in, leaving ample time for the briefing and fitting of flight gear.

Costs and Packages

Standard Packages

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iFLY Manchester offers various packages designed to accommodate different budgets and preferences. The primary options, discounts, and memberships include:

First-Time Flyers Package: Priced from £29.99 for two flights, this package represents an excellent introductory option for beginners.

Standard Package: Available at approximately £68 for two flights, offering a classic introduction to wind tunnel flying.

Air-Born Plus Free Photo and Movie Package: Priced at £77.99, this includes four flights along with digital media to document the experience.

Super Saver Deals: Offered during off-peak periods from £29.99 for two flights, ideal for those with flexible schedules.

Additional Options

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Several optional upgrades are available to enhance the flight experience.

Extra Flights: Additional tunnel time can be purchased for around £14 per flight, while the 'Hi-Fly' experience costs £10, allowing the instructor to guide the flyer high into the tunnel.

Family Packages: Specially priced group packages are available for families wishing to share the adventure.

Membership and Discounts

For regular visitors, the facility provides various membership plans and promotional offers.

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Repeat Flyer Memberships: Designed for frequent flyers, these schemes offer discounted rates on subsequent bookings.

Seasonal Promotions: Periodic off-peak discounts and special packages are advertised throughout the year for added savings.

Here’s a quick overview of the different packages they offer, laid out in a table for easy comparison. This should give you a clearer idea of the options available, so you can choose the one that best fits your preferences and budget.

Package Name

Price

Flights Included

Duration

Highlights

First-Time Flyers Package

£29.99

2

Approx. 2 hours

Ideal for beginners and includes pre-flight training.

Standard Package

£68.00

2

Approx. 2 hours

Great introductory option for new flyers.

Air-Born Plus Photo & Movie

£77.99

4

Approx. 2 hours

Includes photos and videos of the experience.

Extra Flight

£14.00

1 additional flight

N/A (add-on)

Add-on for more flying time after initial flights.

Hi-Fly Experience

£10.00

1 additional flight

N/A (add-on)

Experience an exhilarating lift by your instructor.

Family Package

Varies

Multiple (group rates)

Approx. 2 hours per flyer

Economical option for families flying together.

Repeat Flyer Membership

Varies

N/A

N/A

Discounts on future flights for frequent flyers.

Pro tip:

Monitoring seasonal promotions and booking during off-peak hours offers the best value for flight packages at Trafford Park.

Booking Your Flight

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Securing a slot at iFLY Manchester is a straightforward process. The following steps outline the booking procedure and optimal times to visit.

Visit the Website: Navigate to the official iFLY Manchester portal to view package options. Advance online booking is highly recommended to secure preferred time slots, particularly for weekend visits.

Select a Package: Choose from the available options, such as the introductory, standard, or media-inclusive packages.

Choose Date and Time: Select a preferred time slot. It is advisable to review the rescheduling policy, which generally permits changes up to 48 hours before the booking without charge.

Complete Pre-Flight Documentation: Prior to arrival, an email containing links to waiver forms and a safety briefing video will be sent. These should be completed in advance.

Confirm Payment: Complete the payment online to receive a detailed confirmation email.

Arrive Early: Participants should arrive 45 minutes prior to the flight time to complete check-in, gear fitting, and the briefing.

Pro tip:

Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, making them the ideal time to book for a more relaxed experience.

Experience and Safety at iFLY Manchester

What to Expect During Your Visit

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A typical visit to iFLY Manchester follows a structured sequence designed to balance safety and enjoyment. The process covers check-in, briefing, equipment fitting, and flight time.

Check-In: On arrival, bookings are confirmed and standard health declarations are completed.

Pre-Flight Briefing: A certified instructor leads a briefing covering basic body positions, hand signals, and wind tunnel safety protocols.

Gear Fitting: Participants receive a flight suit, helmet, goggles, and optional earplugs. Comfortable clothing and lace-up trainers must be worn, as loose items are prohibited in the tunnel.

Tunnel Flight: The session, lasting approximately two hours in total, includes the flights themselves. Participants float on a column of air generated by powerful vertical fans, accompanied inside the chamber by their instructor at all times.

Pro tip:

Paying close attention to the instructor's hand signals and body posture tips during the briefing will improve stability and enjoyment in the tunnel.

Safety Measures and Requirements

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To guarantee a safe environment, iFLY Manchester enforces several strict regulations and safety procedures.

Hygiene Standards: All flight suits, helmets, and goggles are thoroughly sanitised and laundered after each use.

Safety Instruction: Viewing a safety video is mandatory prior to flight, detailing tunnel protocols and safety guidelines.

Safety Gear: Participants must wear the provided suit, helmet, goggles, and earplugs to protect against wind noise.

Personal Belongings: All loose items, including watches, phones, and jewellery, must be stored in the lockers provided.

Weight Guidelines: The maximum weight limit is 18 stone 7 pounds (117 kg). There is no minimum weight restriction.

Height and Fit: While there is no strict height limit, participants must be able to fit safely into the provided equipment.

Medical Restraints: Participants must be in reasonable health. Individuals with heart, neck, or back conditions should consult staff before booking. Pregnant women and anyone with a history of shoulder dislocation are strictly prohibited from flying.

Pro tip:

Consulting the iFLY team directly prior to booking is recommended if there are any outstanding queries regarding physical suitability.

Nearby Attractions and Dining Recommendations

Places to Eat Around iFLY Manchester

After a session in the wind tunnel, several quality dining options are available within the Trafford area to suit different tastes.

1. Nando’s Manchester - Beyond

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Website

Contact details: +44 161 749 8457

Operating hours:

• Monday to Wednesday: 11:30 am to 10 pm
• Thursday: 11:30 am to 6 pm
• Friday: 11:30 am to 11 pm
• Saturday: 11 am to 11 pm
• Sunday: 11 am to 10 pm

Price: $$

Nando's Manchester - Beyond is a popular choice for diners seeking a relaxed meal in a vibrant setting close to Trafford Way.

The menu is centred on fresh, flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken prepared to preferred spice levels, alongside vegetarian options, plant-based burgers, and fresh salads. The restaurant includes practical amenities such as free Wi-Fi, baby-changing facilities, and wheelchair-accessible spaces.

Pro tip:

Ordering a sharing platter is a cost-effective way for groups to sample a variety of chicken cuts and sides.

2. Five Guys Trafford Retail Park

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Website

Contact details: +44 161 388 0880

Operating hours:

• Monday to Sunday: 11 am to 11 pm

Price: $$

Five Guys offers high-quality American-style fast food in a casual, family-friendly setting. The burgers are crafted using fresh Scottish beef and can be customized with a choice of 15 complimentary toppings.

The Cajun-style fries are a popular spicy side, and the milkshakes offer numerous mix-in combinations. All food is freshly prepared to order without the use of freezers or microwaves, and the venue offers highchairs and free parking.

Pro tip:

Emptying the fries directly into the paper serving bag prevents moisture build-up and keeps them crisp.

3. Slim Chickens

3. Las Iguanas

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Website

Contact details: +44 161 549 2174

Operating hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 11 am to 9:30 pm
• Friday to Saturday: 11 am to 10 pm
• Sunday: 11 am to 8:30 pm

Price: $$

Las Iguanas provides a vibrant Latin American dining experience, featuring an upbeat atmosphere suitable for families and larger groups. The venue offers both indoor dining and an outdoor terrace.

The menu ranges from shareable tapas to traditional mains such as fajitas, burritos, and nachos. Diverse dietary requirements are accommodated with vegetarian, vegan, and halal options, alongside a dedicated children's menu.

Pro tip:

The daily, all-day 2-for-1 cocktail offer provides excellent value for sampling the extensive drinks menu.

Other Fun Activities Nearby

Combining a flight session at iFLY with other Trafford attractions makes for a complete day out, blending adventure with leisure and culture.

1. Explore the Trafford Centre

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Website

Contact details: +44 161 749 1720

Operating hours:

• Monday to Friday: 10 am to 10 pm
• Saturday: 10 am to 9 pm
• Sunday: 12 pm to 6 pm

Price: $$

The Trafford Centre is one of the premier shopping and leisure destinations in the United Kingdom, housing retail, dining, and entertainment facilities under one roof.

The complex contains over 200 stores, ranging from popular high-street brands to premium labels, alongside numerous dining choices. Access is convenient, featuring a vast car park with over 12,500 spaces and excellent public transport links via bus and the Metrolink tram network.

Pro tip:

For non-shoppers, the centre features an IMAX cinema, adventure golf, laser tag, bowling, and a large amusement arcade.

2. Learn history at the Imperial War Museum North

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Website

Contact details: +44 161 836 4000

Operating hours:

• Monday to Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm

Price: Free

The Imperial War Museum North (IWM North) explores the impact of modern conflict on society, housed in an iconic building designed by Daniel Libeskind to represent a globe fractured by war.

The galleries showcase over 2,000 historic artefacts spanning from the First World War to the present day. Through permanent and temporary displays, the museum highlights personal stories, alongside the striking Poppies sculpture, which serves as a symbol of remembrance.

Pro tip:

The Big Picture Show is highly recommended, utilising 360-degree projections and surround sound to deliver immersive historical narratives.