Vertical Wind Tunnel Restrictions

Vertical wind tunnels are appealing to skydiving enthusiasts because they can practice freefall skills before taking flight. In addition, many people who are too young or old to participate in skydiving can experience similar sensations in a wind tunnel. Although wind tunnels are typically safer than skydiving -- no death has ever been reported in one -- they still carry significant risk of injury, including broken bones.

  1. Age Restrictions

    • Most wind tunnel owners and operators enforce strict age regulations to prevent any possible harmful effects on individuals more susceptible to injury or illness based on the fragility of their organs. Generally, children must be at least 5 years old to enter a vertical wind tunnel, and senior citizens over the age of 105 are not allowed to participate. Children ages 5-17 must be accompanied by a responsible adult in nearly all facilities.

    Size Restrictions

    • Due to increased risk of injury, individuals weighing more than 225 lbs. may not be admitted to the vertical wind tunnel unless they are well proportioned and in good health. Children must weigh at least 50 lbs. in addition to meeting the age limit. Some wind tunnel owners raise the minimum weight restriction to as high as 90 lbs. and let passengers up to 250 lbs. travel. Additionally, any traveler must fit the company-provided helmets in order to participate.

    Health Condition Restrictions

    • As with roller coasters and other entertainment sources that may induce high excitement or elevate stress levels, pregnant women are not permitted in vertical wind tunnels. Likewise, individuals with documented health conditions related to the neck or back may not enter the wind tunnel. Those with pacemakers, history of infarctions or other cardiac conditions are strictly prohibited from reserving time in a vertical wind tunnel. Any history of drug or alcohol abuse will also result in dismissal from the wind tunnel facility.

    Miscellaneous Restrictions

    • The number of people allowed to enter the chamber at one time is determined by each facility based on the size of the vertical wind tunnel. There is no limit to the number of sessions you can attend in a day. It is imperative to follow all safety procedures outlined in the facility rules, waiver form and instruction session. Failure to follow these rules could cause injury to yourself or others and will result in permanent removal from the facility with no opportunity to return.