Fans company Fläkt Woods is helping to introduce the UK to the new US craze of simulated skydiving, otherwise known as 'bodyflying'.
Airkix, a brand new attraction at Xscape in Milton Keynes, is a vertical wind tunnel designed to allow people from four to five upwards experience the rush of freefall in a controlled, safe environment.
In the purpose built tunnel it will be possible to perform a series of freefall manoeuvres in an airstream of up to 150mph, the column of air being generated by four giant fans supplied by Essex-based Fläkt Woods.
The tunnel, which is expected to open in October, will have a 12ft diameter chamber with four of the company's fixed pitch full stage axial fans. These can be started at low speed and gradually increased, allowing visitors to be lifted into the air and experience the sensation of free fall.
The ducted fans have a total power output of over 450 kW, which is enough to lift a flyer of up to 110 kg or nearly 18 stone. The overall structure is 60ft x 60ft and 90 ft high.
Clear acrylic walls around the flight chamber will allow people to see the flyers in action, and the attraction will also feature state of the art video and digital photography systems.
All flyers receive induction training in a pre-flight room,being taken on a step by step programme explaining how the wind tunnel works and how to get the most out of their flight. Flying suits, goggles and helmets are provided.
Information about the flying package available, prices and bookings can be found on www.airkix.com.
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