Sky flying, often confused with skydiving, is a distinct aerial sport that combines elements of freefall, paragliding, and sometimes even BASE jumping. It is an extreme sport that involves jumping from a plane or other high points and using a wingsuit to glide through the air before deploying a parachute to land safely. This sport is known for the sensation of flying it provides, which is why it’s often referred to as “birdman” or “squirrel suit” flying due to the design of the wingsuits used.
Origins and Evolution of Sky Flying
Sky flying has its roots in the longstanding human desire to fly. The concept of a wingsuit was first experimented with in the early 20th century, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that modern wingsuit flying really began to take shape. Pioneers of the sport experimented with suit designs that would allow more control and longer flight times in the air. The sport has since evolved with advancements in technology and design, making it more accessible and safer for enthusiasts.
The evolution of sky flying has been marked by a constant push to extend the limits of how far and how long one can fly. Advances in suit design, materials, and aerodynamics have enabled flyers to achieve greater distances, higher speeds, and more precise control than ever before.
The Wingsuit
Central to sky flying is the wingsuit, a specialized jumpsuit that inflates during the jump to create wing-like structures between the arms and legs. This design increases surface area and allows the flyer to glide significant distances horizontally compared to the rate of descent.
Modern wingsuits are crafted with high-tech materials and are meticulously designed to balance aerodynamics, durability, and safety. They typically include features like vents for inflation control, reinforced seams for strength, and specific modifications to enhance maneuverability and control.
The Experience and Technique
Sky flying offers an unparalleled experience, often described as the closest thing to actual unassisted human flight. Participants exit an aircraft at a high altitude, usually between 10,000 and 15,000 feet. Once they jump, they spread their limbs to inflate the wingsuit and begin gliding.
The technique of sky flying involves controlling body position and angles to maneuver in the air. Skilled flyers can perform turns, dive, and even soar upward for short periods. The flight ends with the deployment of a parachute, allowing for a controlled and safe landing.
Training and Safety
Due to its extreme nature, sky flying requires rigorous training and adherence to strict safety protocols. Beginners typically start with basic skydiving and gradually progress to wingsuit flying after gaining experience and demonstrating proficiency in freefall skills.
Training programs are comprehensive, covering aspects like flight theory, suit control, navigation, emergency procedures, and safe landing techniques. Safety gear, including helmets, altimeters, and automatic activation devices for parachutes, is essential.
Competitions and Records
Sky flying is not just a recreational activity; it also encompasses competitive events and record-setting attempts. Competitions in sky flying involve tasks like time trials, distance challenges, and precision maneuvers, where flyers are judged on their ability to control and navigate their wingsuits effectively.
Record-setting in sky flying often focuses on metrics like the longest time in flight, the greatest horizontal distance covered, or the highest speed achieved. These records are constantly being challenged and broken, pushing the boundaries of the sport.
Accessibility and Community
While sky flying is an extreme sport, it has become more accessible over the years thanks to advancements in technology and safety. However, it remains a niche activity due to the level of skill, training, and financial investment required.
The sky flying community is tight-knit, with clubs and groups around the world where enthusiasts share experiences, advice, and organize jumps. This community plays a crucial role in promoting safety standards and encouraging responsible participation in the sport.
The Future of Sky Flying
The future of sky flying looks promising as technology continues to advance, making the sport safer and more accessible. Innovations in wingsuit design and materials, as well as advancements in parachute technology, are likely to further enhance the capabilities and safety of flyers.
Moreover, there is growing interest in exploring the potential of wingsuit flying for not just recreational or competitive purposes but also for practical applications, such as in search and rescue operations or scientific research.
In conclusion, sky flying represents the cutting edge of aerial sports, offering an exhilarating experience that closely mimics the sensation of flying. As the sport continues to evolve, it attracts a growing number of thrill-seekers and adventurers, all drawn to the unique feeling of soaring through the sky. With ongoing advancements in safety and technology, sky flying continues to push the limits of human flight potential.