A wind tunnel is a simulator that simulates free fall. The attraction began to gain popularity only recently. Thanks to it, anyone can experience the exciting feeling of weightlessness. Reviews of wind tunnel flights posted on the Internet are full of delight.

What is just entertainment for us is a serious scientific tool used to study the effect of the air on moving objects. It is used in many scientific fields: industrial and aviation developments, including training military pilots and astronauts, and only recently has it become entertainment for ordinary people.

The history of invention, the path from science to entertainment

The first wind tunnel was designed for scientific purposes and was small in size. Using it, scientists studied the behavior of solids in air flow. Later, large prototypes were used to test parachutes. In Russia, the first pipe appeared in 1871 and was designed by teacher V.A. Pashkevich to train students at the military academy.

The invention became widespread only during the Second World War. At an American airbase, they constructed a pipe with a 6-meter screw, which allowed a person to experience the feeling of free fall. It was used for the same purpose - testing parachutes and airplanes.

Man was able to experience the influence of air flows inside the pipe only in 1964. Military parachutist Jack Tiffany entered the wind tunnel, intending to take off using a parachute, and he succeeded. But this experience did not lead to use as a full-fledged simulator for people. The load of water flows on the human body was too great.

The first aerial trainers for humans

The first aerodynamic simulator appeared in 1981 in Canada. Gene Germain built it on the basis of wind tunnels for training airborne troops. He managed to improve the invention so much that a person could rise and fall smoothly. But the use of air current forces still remained the prerogative of specialists.

In 2006, wind tunnels were used at the closing of the Winter Olympic Games. Trained people demonstrated while in confined spaces. From that moment on, the wind tunnel began to spread as an attraction. For many people, this has become a systematic form of entertainment, gradually attracting more and more fans of extreme sports. In Russia, to experience the extraordinary sensations of flying in a wind tunnel in an air park, you need to visit the entertainment centers of Moscow, St. Petersburg or other large cities.

Operating principle

The wind tunnel allows you to experience free fall, which was previously only available to those who dared to jump with a parachute. However, this method is safer and allows you to get almost the same sensations.

The attraction is a complex of the following parts:

• pipe of various diameters;
• specially designed fans;
• diesel engine;
• trampoline net;
• a “glass”, usually made of transparent material and mesh, limiting the flight zone.

The principle of operation is simple and is based on the gradual injection of air into a limited space. The pipe operates due to powerful fans that create a strong air flow. The artificial wind speed can reach from 190 to 260 km/h.

Attraction design

There are many types of aerodynamic complexes, each of which differs in three main parameters:

• The location of the screws is top or bottom.
• The size of the pipe itself - the so-called flight zone (depends on the height and diameter of the fence).
• Wind speeds inside the working area depend on the power of the diesel engine and fan.

The flight area is fenced at the top with a mesh and at the edges with a glass made of transparent material, which does not allow a person to fly beyond the outlined diameter and get under the fan blades - hence the name “pipe”.

The operation of the device is controlled by the operator, who can adjust the air flow. This creates a breathtaking free fall effect.

Instructors always familiarize the participant with safety precautions, the structure of the pipe and acceptable actions while in the air flow zone. It’s no wonder that reviews of wind tunnel flights are generally positive, as it’s a safe and exciting experience.

After watching a video about the operation of the attraction, viewers are divided into two camps. The first group doubts the safety of the flight and are confident that this experience is available only to a specially trained person. The second group, wanting to experience a new entertainment, does not doubt its safety. However, the reality is that even children are now allowed to fly in a wind tunnel.

Note! Even in the event of a sudden engine stop, a person does not fall, but lands slowly, since the fans provide damped operation and a smooth decrease in the power of air flows.

The first time in the pipe may seem difficult for a beginner. You need to learn to move in the air flow, overcome the panic from the feeling of free fall, learn to control your own body. As a rule, beginners get used to the new sensations within 1-2 minutes, after which a feeling of euphoria from the flight sets in. On your first visit, it is mandatory to be accompanied by an instructor.

Safety precautions

Only with strict observance of safety rules and following the instructions of the instructor will a person leave a positive review of the flight in a wind tunnel.

Interesting fact! The design of the instructor's helmet differs from the others, since this means of protection protects the head from accidental blows of beginners who do not fully master the flying technique.

The safety of the first steps is ensured by instructors who enter the air flow zone together with visitors. They help you get comfortable and configure the equipment to suit a person’s individual parameters.

Mandatory rules

It must be remembered that the attraction is a complex mechanical device of high power. Here you must strictly adhere to the following rules:

• Beginners stay inside the flight zone for no more than 2 minutes.
• Clothing should be comfortable and not restrict movement. Despite the fact that before the flight you are given a special overall that helps you balance on the air flow, you must wear loose clothing underneath it.
• Clothes should be warm - the air injection greatly reduces the temperature, so it is quite cool inside the flight area. The fabric of the overalls is dense, but the heat reserve is not always enough.
• Comfortable shoes - preferably sneakers or lace-up sneakers. Shoes, Velcro fasteners and similar footwear can fly off, striking anyone inside the work area, including the visitor.
• It is advisable to braid long hair and secure it with a tight elastic band.
• A helmet is required inside the flight zone.

The main condition for getting a pleasant feeling from the flight is complete relaxation of the body. Children are allowed only under the supervision of instructors; in this case, the operator reduces the speed of the propellers to a minimum.

Attraction for entertainment and sports

The wind tunnel has only recently become a full-fledged attraction, but it continues to be used as a sports simulator for training parachutists and athletes.

It is important to know! Simultaneous participation of two or more persons is permitted only for athletes with more than 30 minutes of individual flying experience.

The device combines several functional purposes and can be used to prepare:

• Parachutists and pilots - to improve their skills.
• Acrobats - to prepare for performing complex stunts.
• Children - for the purpose of general physical development and entertainment.
• Adults - to increase physical activity and relaxation.

In addition, many adults go to the aerodynamic simulator before making a skydive. Despite the fact that this experience cannot be compared with a full-fledged flight in the sky, the conditions are approximately similar.

In addition, the attraction acts as a simulator. Countering the created load forces the core muscles of the body to work, due to which calories are actively burned during the flight. Coordination of movements improves significantly as the visitor becomes accustomed to controlling his own body. According to reviews from men, flying in a wind tunnel makes every boy’s childhood dreams of flying into space come true.

Restrictions and contraindications for flying in a wind tunnel

Every attraction has limitations, and the wind tunnel is no exception. But thanks to advanced safety technology, there are not so many of them:

• the visitor's age must be from 5 to 75 years;
• body weight ranges from 20 to 130 kg (depending on the engine power and the propeller used);
• the visitor should not have health problems, diseases of the musculoskeletal system, respiratory and cardiovascular systems, or mental disorders;
• Pregnant women are not allowed on the attraction;
• The use of the attraction is not recommended for people who have undergone surgery or been injured;
• People in a state of intoxication and under the influence of intoxicating substances (drugs) are not allowed into the flight zone.

Everyone else can experience flying in a wind tunnel and leave reviews of their own experience on the Internet.

Who might be interested in the attraction?

One of the first cities where flight in a wind tunnel was implemented was Moscow. This is an active form of leisure that allows you to get an unforgettable experience. It is completely safe and suitable for all people. Compliance with safety regulations, constant supervision of the instructor and control of the operator make using the attraction an interesting and accessible leisure activity. Giving a flight in a wind tunnel as a gift would be a great idea.

Good physical activity and a lot of impressions can be obtained by flying in a wind tunnel. A wind tunnel is a special simulator in which a directed vertical air flow is created. The air flow is so powerful that it can lift a person to the height of a three- or four-story building. The training process is reminiscent of skydiving, but training in a tube is safer. Therefore, you can practice without unnecessary risk.

Are there any contraindications?

Not everyone is allowed to fly in a wind tunnel. People who:

• with cardiovascular diseases;
• with musculoskeletal disorders;
• with mental disabilities;
• during pregnancy;
• for back injuries.

If your weight exceeds 100-120 kg, you may have problems with flying. However, it all depends on the specific simulator. Separately, it is worth mentioning the age of the participants. theoretically, children from 4 years old can train in the pipe, but in practice, the simulator is used from 6 years old. It is psychologically difficult for parents to let go of four-year-olds.

Having diseases of the cardiovascular system, you can jeopardize your health by exercising in the exercise machine. The wind tunnel creates a load not only on all muscle groups, but also on internal organs, as well as on the circulatory system. Therefore, it is not worth the risk. If you have problems with the musculoskeletal system, difficulties will also arise during classes. The aerodynamic flow stimulates the vestibular apparatus, but in case of serious diseases this can lead to a worsening of the condition.

People with mental illnesses are not allowed to attend classes for obvious reasons.

How long can you study?

The first lessons may last only a few minutes. Over time, you can increase the duration of the workout. You shouldn’t immediately buy a subscription for a half-hour lesson - five minutes will be enough to appreciate all the benefits of free flight. By the way, time flies longer in flight. You will get a fair amount of adrenaline and stress on your muscles and spine.

If you're planning on skydiving, tube training can be excellent preparation. 5 minutes in such a simulator is equivalent to several jumps. You will no longer have a psychological barrier to heights when you arrive at the airfield.

It is safe?

Yes, tube flights are absolutely safe if you do not have any diseases on the list of contraindications. The force of the air flow is controlled, you can reduce the flow speed and gently lower the person to the ground. There are no falls from heights during training - the system is fully tested, and there is always insurance. Experienced instructors work with beginners.

How to prepare for classes

No special preparation is required before classes. It is not recommended to eat or drink heavily before a flight. It’s worth getting a good rest to feel sufficiently alert. You should not train while sleepy.

You should not take stimulants, including energy drinks, before training. Flying itself will raise your energy levels to unprecedented heights. Before the flight, participants will be given equipment. There are suits and helmets in small sizes for children. Shoes must be selected so that they do not fall off and fit perfectly on your feet.

In a large diameter pipe you can practice elements of aerial acrobatics. This simulator is intended for experienced skydivers and is not suitable for beginners. First you need to focus on individual lessons with an instructor.

You can learn more about the wind tunnel on the Aeropotok website

You can always fly and jump with a parachute.

Everyone already knows everything about spring and summer: the maximum number of flight days, good weather.

If it's golden autumn outside, then despite the clouds and frequent rains we continue to fly and parachute. Believe me, it's very beautiful.

And when the snow falls, many will ask: “Isn’t it cold to fly in winter?” We answer the question with a question: “isn’t it cold to ski in winter?” Maybe it's better to ride in the summer? There are and will be winter flights. Come. Until then.

20 minutes. on the Yak-52 for 6500 rubles.

We will bring you a beautiful box with a certificate,
- we will show aerobatics,
- we’ll let you “steer” the plane,
- In-flight video recording is possible.

	watch the video on our YouTube channel.
	scroll through photos of flights in Instagram.
	ask questions in a group In contact with.
	or on the official page at Facebook.

Why our clients love us

We only sell the sky and we do it well. We fly on our own. We want to give you the opportunity to fly and give flights. Our goal is safe flights for everyone!

We have adequate delivery and our own courier service. Delivery is possible on the day of order, delivery outside working hours is possible. Our couriers arrive on time. Our couriers know how to use maps and find their way independently.

Huge range of flights: more than ten types of aircraft, more than a hundred different flights or jumps. Adrenaline, extreme sports, aerobatics or beautiful sightseeing flights and air excursions.

Many different airfields in different directions of the Moscow region. Fly where it is convenient for you. Which airfield should I choose? And anyone! Everywhere is beautiful, interesting and safe: we work with professionals.

Reasonable prices. Our certificates are worth real money. And our flights are real. We sell just enough time for a person to “fly”; the duration of the flight is your choice, we only advise.

The information on our website is up to date, complete and true. We constantly monitor the correctness of the presentation of the material and the relevance of prices. We write details on the website. We know them and will be happy to tell them to those who do not like to read.

And everything is fair with us. Flight time is counted from the moment the aircraft takes off from the runway. We warn you in advance that flights may be rescheduled due to weather conditions.

And a gift box which contains the certificate for our flight, it is stylish, beautiful and comfortable. A candy wrapper cannot cost more than candy: we do not sell certificates in boxes encrusted with diamonds, but our box will be noticeable among other gifts and will delight its owner.

Gifts for the holidays

On February 23(Day of the Soviet Army or Defender of the Fatherland, whichever you prefer) You choose gifts.

Health restrictions

Everyone wants to fly! And people who lead an active lifestyle but have been injured in the past want to fly even more. From time to time we are asked questions about such flights or jumps.

All restrictions are logical and aimed at safety. If you are in doubt, it is better to consult your doctor.

Remember that flying and skydiving can seem scary. Different people react differently to fear, so instructors have to be “a bit of a psychologist” to make the flight beautiful and the gift unforgettable.

People are not allowed to perform aerobatics or parachute jumping

1. In the postoperative period or with a ban on physical and mental stress.
2. With diseases of the cardiovascular system, such as congenital or acquired heart defects, heart failure and others.
3. With diseases or damage to the musculoskeletal system (serious spinal injuries, severe curvature of the spine, herniated discs and other similar diseases).
4. With severe diseases of the respiratory system.
5. Pregnant women
6. With mental and neurological diseases, including suicidal tendencies.
7. With possible other types of personal incompatibility with the stresses encountered during these activities.

That is, those people who can be damaged by mechanical or emotional overload.

People diagnosed with diabetes can skydive, but should not experience g-forces greater than 3.5G. Therefore, it is better for them to give up aerobatics.

For paragliding

People with diseases or injuries to the musculoskeletal system are not allowed. Let us explain: at the start you need to run several steps. When landing, too.

Not allowed for sightseeing flights

pregnant women. No need.

Inappropriate people will not be allowed on any flights or jumps

And also in a state of alcoholic or drug intoxication. And also people who do not follow the instructions of the instructors. Although this does not apply to medical contraindications.

At what age can you allow your child to fly in a wind tunnel? How safe is this idea and what requirements must be met before heading into the wind tunnel? The answers can be found by reading this article.

Many people dream of experiencing the joy of flying, and these dreams begin in childhood. But if, as adults, many can fulfill their dream by jumping with a parachute, then for children, waiting for their dream to come true seems unbearably long.

Thanks to the development of the entertainment industry, today everyone, even at a very young age, can make their dream come true, without risk to health and life. To do this, you just need to visit an attraction called the wind tunnel.

If a child persistently asks to be allowed to experience the happiness of flying, then there is no need to deny him such pleasure. But a mobile attraction from the nearest park is not suitable for this; children are only allowed in the stationary wind tunnel attraction.

This entertainment in its mass manifestations appeared relatively recently, around the 20s, thanks to the invention of military scientists. The very first flight in a wind tunnel was recorded in 1963 in the USA, at a military base. It was done by Jack Tiffany.

The act of this man completely changed the purpose of this device, if the wind tunnel was invented and used before only as a simulator for testing military equipment, then flying in a human wind tunnel made it possible to train the feeling of free fall of paratroopers without taking the plane into the sky.

Which is significantly more economical and practical, and also the number of injuries received during training jumps was reduced by three times. And only many years later in 1983, one of the skydivers, Canadian Jean Saint-Germain, patented the wind tunnel attraction as a mass entertainment with which you can fully experience free fall.

Types of wind tunnel. Along with the growing public interest in this attraction, the wind tunnel gradually took on various forms; today this attraction can be stationary and mobile, open and closed, professional (for parachutist training) and for amateurs.

An open mobile wind tunnel looks especially impressive; this type of attraction is mainly installed in amusement parks in the summer. A person has a complete feeling of flying, everything happens in the fresh air, the design is very similar to a trampoline with safety nets and inflatable mats for a safe landing. The man himself simply floats against the backdrop of the sky and the amazed audience. Although from the outside this idea may seem too risky, in essence this attraction is no more dangerous than the simplest swings, trampolines and slides.

Conditions for flights:

Children from 7 years old are allowed;

permissible weight from 18 to 110 kg;

absence of cardiovascular diseases;

It is not allowed to fly after using alcohol and drugs, as well as potent drugs that impair a person’s reaction and coordination;

children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by parents or an instructor;

The training flight is strictly accompanied by an instructor.

Before the main flight, a mandatory briefing is carried out, during which it is explained in detail exactly how to behave, what movements are not advisable to make, and with the help of which you can control the flight itself. During the soaring process, the correct positioning of a person’s arms and legs is very important, so the first training flight is strictly accompanied by an instructor. Before the flight begins, a person receives special clothing in which he will fly, a protective helmet and comfortable shoes are also put on.

The wind tunnel is also designed for mass flights, so if desired, you can take a family flight. The sensations obtained during free soaring can be equated to extreme ones, so the adrenaline rush will be provided to all family members, and as we know, stressful situations experienced together only strengthen and unite the family.

Advantages. For those who love skydiving, this type of training can significantly reduce the time available for the jump. After all, to visit the pipe you don’t need to specially allocate a lot of time, go to the airfield, take to the skies on an airplane and only then make a jump. This attraction can also serve as a good alternative during bad weather.

Flights in a wind tunnel do not require special physical training and are suitable for both older people and very young children. This type of soaring can be very interesting for people who suffer from a fear of heights; to perform such a flight, you do not need to fight your own fears and walk into the void, you just need to lie on your stomach, and the air itself will lift a person to a certain height.

Although the wind tunnel attraction is one of the most popular today, not all citizens can afford this entertainment, since a minute of free soaring inside this tube, on average in Russia, costs from one to two thousand rubles.

Of course, whether to allow a child to take such flights or not is up to each individual parent, but the child will probably remember the vivid and unforgettable sensations that this attraction can give his entire life. And if parents express a desire to join their child, then this idea will be a vivid memory for the whole family.

It is safe?
Flying in a wind tunnel is not only absolutely safe, but, like other types of physical activity, it is good for health. Experienced instructors will help you get comfortable in the air flow and will insure you throughout the flight. And a strong elastic mesh stretched above and below the flight zone will prevent you from falling or flying to a dangerous height.

It's complicated?
Almost anyone can do it (children over 5 years old accompanied by legal representatives). You don't need to be an extreme athlete to fly in a wind tunnel. It is enough to have average physical fitness and follow the instructions of the instructor.

How does it feel during the flight?
Answer: A wind tunnel allows you to simulate the feeling of weightlessness. In other words, it allows you to reach wind speeds of up to ten thousand kilometers per hour and allows you to believe in the fact that you are falling on your face at the highest possible speed. This feeling is very deep and does not create the effect of nausea in the stomach.

Is it possible to come with friends with the intention that they will have the opportunity to contemplate my flight?
The wind tunnel is located in a cozy building, there is an observation area from which friends have the opportunity to observe the participants and take photographs.

Can wind tunnel experience help in skydiving?
Yes, quite, provided that you manage to hold out in an air flow with a latitude of more than four meters, then you, too, will be able to endure a free fall from a heavenly height.

Are flying in a wind tunnel and parachuting the same thing?
The technique for maneuvering in the air is the same. The only difference is the experience gained from these types of sports. The fact is that in parachuting you need to be fearless, since you need to jump from a height of about four kilometers. And in a wind tunnel, flight begins from the surface of the earth. However, both of these sports can provide an unforgettable experience.

Is it difficult to breathe when exposed to air flow?
There are no breathing difficulties. You can breathe and everyone breathes. All you have to do is just relax and you can breathe calmly.

How long can you stay in?
We strongly recommend that newcomers not take flights lasting more than 15 minutes a day, and in addition, they need to take pauses between flight approaches. Flying in a wind tunnel takes a lot of body energy. Over time, amateurs who have gained experience in flying can increase the duration of flights in a wind tunnel to 30 minutes a day, which is the same load as approximately forty parachute jumps!

Is skydiving experience required to fly in a wind tunnel?
No. For those who are interested in the process of flight itself, but who do not want to make parachute jumps from four thousand meters, this wind tunnel attraction is an excellent option.

Can I fly in a wind tunnel with my friends?
During the briefing, you will be taught flight skills that are compatible only with an instructor. Just like riding a bicycle, controlling the flight requires skill and dexterity. And if you are able to learn how to control your flight in a wind tunnel, then you will have the opportunity to fly together, without the participation of a mentor.

Are there any contraindications for flying in a wind tunnel?
You should not fly in the following cases: serious diseases associated with the vertebrae and back; dislocations of the arms or shoulder joints; unclosed wounds; osteoporosis or any other diseases that are associated with the bone marrow; heart diseases; pregnancy.

What are the age restrictions and are there any?
Every resident of Krasnoyarsk, starting from the age of five, can experience flight in a wind tunnel. We advise parents to monitor their child and provide support while practicing the instructions.
There is no upper limit and therefore it is never too late for you to become a participant in this experiment.

What are the weight restrictions?
Our wind tunnel is capable of lifting body weights up to 120 kg. If you have any doubts about your physical characteristics, call us.

What are the health restrictions for flying?
In order to fly you need to have at least an average level of physical fitness. In everyday life, for most this means that they only need to climb one flight of stairs without experiencing shortness of breath.