Ifly for All Abilities
iFLY for All Abilities
I'm still wondering why we didn't try this sooner! My girl and I are always out trying new things. Some adventures are easier than others to get her to go along with but as my high functioning ASD girl ages, the less convincing she needs. Funny looking back just a couple years ago it took three tries to get her to ride Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland. Fast forward to age 10 and it's a all about trying new things without any coaxing. Her two biggest wishes have always been to fly and to be a mermaid, well I came upon IFly in Ontario and the light bulb went off in my head! They were offering a special needs evening for all abilities to attend. We couldn't go that evening but we set a date to visit on our own and wow what a rush it was! If you have ever considered indoor skydiving or outdoor for that matter, this is a perfect introduction to it.
The tunnel, rising almost 60 feet high!
What iFLY is all about:
It's indoor skydiving for any skill level or ability. From your flight training to that first step into the flight tunnel your instructor is there to answer any questions, offer you support and be the biggest cheerleader you will ever have! For some that first flight is a bit wobbly and for others they get their wings and can fly within seconds.
For those on the spectrum: My daughter LOVED it and was asking when we could return even before we left. My concerns were really only about the noise created within the flying tunnel for her but they give you ear plugs to use. Once inside the noise kinda goes away as you are focused more on your body positioning. For sensory seeking kids this has to be THE ultimate rush!
Here's how it works:
You are shown a video instructing you on hand signals the instructor will be using inside the fly zone to help you fly on your own. Your group is then suited up in all the gear including flight suite, goggles, ear plugs and helmet (full face or open face options are available) The only thing you need to bring are lace up tennis shoes. Your group is then taken into the holding area that is open to the flight zone. One by one you are taken in and each person takes their turn in order. Outside this area is seating for others in your party or people waiting their turn. So even though each flight session is 60 seconds (When jumping out of an airplane, the free fall portion lasts approx. 45 seconds.), the entire experience takes about an hour and a half. Watching was almost as fun as the flight itself. Check out the different packages they offer and the best part is if you want to go another round you can tell your instructor and you won't have to wait! If you want, they will also take you up into the higher section of the flight zone at an additional cost.
What I LOVED about our experience! First off the staff was amazingballs! Out flight instructor Tyler was fun, supportive and made for our first experience relaxing and a blast at the same time! I am normally the one making plans for my girl and capturing the moment behind the camera. This time was so different and I was almost brought to tears at the chance to experience this with my daughter as mom, not a blogger or a spectator. IFly includes with your flight package video of your flights and some sweet pictures as well. It's as simple as checking off any or all of the images they captured during your season entering your email. They are send right away and you can download the ones you want. If you are a return flyer there's a discount for you. Happen to be a Costco member? They have a smoking deal right now, 3 people can fly for $99 bucks, which is more than half off. What a great gift this would make!
Here's a little more info you need to know if considering taking flight:
- Participants must be at least 3 years of age and weigh less than 300lbs
- If weight exceeds 260lbs., contact your iFly location as additional restrictions and limitations may apply
- Those who have had prior shoulder dislocation, heart/back issues or are pregnant should not fly
- Fill out your waiver online to save time at check in
- Each flight within the wind tunnel lasts 60 seconds.
- Upon completing your flight you will receive a certificate and your instructor will mark off what skills you managed to achieve during your visit.
All Abilities events Details of the program: All Abilities Night at iFLY is a unique event that makes the dream of flight a reality for those in the special needs community. This program has been custom designed for those with physical and cognitive challenges to create an environment of support and inclusion, while focusing on making what seems impossible, possible.
- Everyone in the special needs community is welcome to participate
- Event package includes a pre-flight training session, all the necessary flight gear (suit, helmet, goggles)
- Each flyer will be assisted by specially trained Flight Instructors during the event with extra attention and accommodations based on participant needs.
- Each flyer receives 2 flights
- Snacks and beverages are served
The pictures of my girl flying and the video.... just looking at them makes me smile! If you are looking for that out of the box experience that will be one to remember, this is a great option I can't recommend enough!
4510 Ontario Mills Parkway
Ontario,California
(909) 531-4359
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday to Thursday: 11am-9pm
Friday: 10am-11pm
Saturday: 9am-11pm
Sunday: 9am-9pm
