“Understanding airflow and movement requires patience and practice. Let's turn there movements into second nature.”
— Justin Bender
Learn the positions.
Start with a dependable neutral position. Understand what creates movement and controls friction. Paired with practice until it becomes as simple as walking.
Level 0
Flight Concepts
A place to collect the ideas, explanations, charts, and references that support every flying position.
View curriculum →Level 1
Belly Flying
Build a stable foundation, then add precise movement, altitude control, and safe entries and exits.
View curriculum →Level 2
Back Flying & Formations
Expand your range with back-flying control, transitions, and the first principles of flying with others.
View curriculum →Justin Bender's Bodyflight
Welcome to the wonderful world of physics and bodyflight.
Tunnel flying grew directly from skydiving. Skydivers first used vertical wind tunnels to recreate freefall. In a controlled, repeatable environment. No aircraft, weather delays, or limited altitude. The same body position, airflow awareness, balance, and movement principles apply in both places. The tunnel simply gives us more time to explore them.
As tunnel technology evolved, flying became smoother, safer, and more accessible. Modern recirculating tunnels create a consistent column of air. iFLY Detroit’s ninth-generation (Gen 9) tunnel is build on that progress. With refined airflow, a semi-spacious flight chamber. A design that supports everyone from first-time flyers, to experienced skydivers and competitive athletes.
We all come here for different reasons, but something about flight draws us in. My goal is to help you become a better flyer than I am. I love experimenting, playing with movement, and learning through feeling but that approach can become high-risk without structure. The tunnel lets us explore safely while still learning what the air is telling us.
Progression may feel slow. That is part of the process. My role is finding drills, explanations, and references. That make sense for you. If you have skydiving or other athletic experience. We can build from it. If you do not, we can focus on drills. That develop the same awareness from the ground up.
Whatever you want from flying. The goal is to understand why and how they work. How your body changes the airflow with small adjustments. Paired together to fall with style.
That is where we begin: breaking down bodyflight.
— Justin Bender