Wind Tunnel Training Before Your AFF Course – Enter the Sky Fully Prepared!
The bottom line:
Wind tunnel training is a smart way to prepare for your AFF course. It helps you get used to the feeling of freefall, receive real-time feedback, learn faster, and step into the plane with more confidence.
You can learn to fly before you even jump
In the past, learning to skydive meant jumping straight in—and hoping your body and mind would figure it out along the way. Today, we do things smarter. With wind tunnels.
Instead of starting at 4,000 meters, you can now practice in a place where the air is steady, the instructor is right next to you, and the floor is always close.
What is a wind tunnel?
A wind tunnel is a vertical tube with a powerful airflow. You lie down inside, and the air lifts you—just like in freefall. But without the plane, without the jump, and without the stress. It’s the perfect way to teach your body what it means to “fly.”
Why do this before your AFF?
- You get used to the feeling: Jumping is intense. But if you’ve already experienced the sensation in a tunnel, it’s far less overwhelming.
- You get immediate feedback: Instructors are right beside you. They point, guide, and correct—so you can adjust your position on the spot.
- You learn faster: Students who train in the tunnel before their AFF course often pick up the techniques much quicker.
- You build confidence: Because you’ve already “flown,” you know what to expect. That confidence carries into the sky.
- You train without risk: Mistakes are welcome. The tunnel is safe—and every moment is a learning opportunity.
Wind tunnel training speeds up your learning process significantly. Many beginners notice a huge difference during their first jumps from the plane.
The sport is evolving – and that’s a good thing
Skydiving has come a long way. In the past, staying stable on your first jumps meant trial and error in freefall.
With the rise of wind tunnel training, it’s now easier to practice basic body positions and techniques ahead of time. It makes the sport more accessible, safer, and more effective—for beginners and experienced jumpers alike. Of course, you can learn to skydive without tunnel training, but it gives you a clear advantage in confidence and control.
And it’s also a lot of fun.
This is what your first wind tunnel session might look like:
Where can you fly?
In the Netherlands, you can visit:
In Belgium, wind tunnels are located in:
Be sure to mention you’re preparing for an AFF course—they’ll tailor the session for you. Instructors will give you targeted tips and exercises that directly support your first real skydive.
Ready to learn how to fly?
Wind tunnel training isn’t mandatory—but it really helps.
If you want to step into the plane with confidence and body awareness, start here. Your mind will be calmer. Your body will recognize the sensation. And you’ll have a head start.
More inspiration on skydiving
- ➔ Your first skydive: from nerves to euphoria
- ➔ 5 misconceptions about skydiving
- ➔ Which training suits you best?
On our homepage, you’ll find all courses and destinations clearly organized.
“The wind tunnel gave me peace of mind. When I jumped for real, my body already knew what to do.” – new student