Take flight indoors: iFLY lands in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A new, high-flying attraction has landed on Eastwood Road, bringing the thrill of skydiving to Wilmington—without the need for a plane.

iFLY, the indoor skydiving facility, offers the opportunity to experience the sensation of freefall in a safe, controlled environment. And the best part? No previous experience is required. From ages 3 to 103, everyone can enjoy the thrill of floating in mid-air.

Co-owner Patrick Maguire, a former military member, knows the challenges of long-distance travel for training. His goal in opening the second iFLY location in North Carolina was to provide a more accessible option for those looking to train locally.

“We can provide a safe environment they can come down ultimately they don’t have to drive or stay in hotels, you know the cost with doing all that. They come down 30-minute drive down the road, they can train and ultimately get to be with their families at night.”

Whether you’re a seasoned skydiver or a first-time flyer, iFLY is designed for all skill levels. Grant Sigler, a flight instructor at the Wilmington location, shared what first-time flyers can expect when they enter the wind tunnel.

“I’m going to start giving you some hand signals that way I can get your body into a stable position which is our goal for our first time—just to get stable so we are floating in the middle.”

Before your flight, you’ll suit up in gear, including goggles and a helmet, and receive one last review of the essential hand signals to guide you through the experience.

“Relax alright, think of it as hold still, we are flying today, not swimming. Then we have chin up, so while you are flying, I just want you to look straight out in front of you. Our last two are legs—best way to remember: look at our legs straight and then bent.”

Feeling a little nervous? Don’t worry. The iFLY instructors are with you every step of the way.

“If at any point you are not digging it, you can give me a thumbs down and I’ll get you out right away. But it’s not every day you get to fly, and most likely, you’re gonna love it…”

iFLY is also working on something exciting for younger flyers. The facility is planning to introduce a “Youth League,” where kids can make indoor skydiving a fun after-school activity.