Air Drop

Air Drop is a freefall jump challenge. You climb the stairs of a tall tower to a jump platform, step off the edge and drop through the air onto a giant inflatable airbag below. There are no ropes or harnesses to clip into. The airbag does all the catching, so the real challenge is finding the courage to take that first step.

A freefall airbag is a huge air-filled cushion, a bit like the ones used for stunt falls in films. Powerful fans keep it full of air. When you land, some of that air escapes through vents in the sides, so the bag sinks gently underneath you instead of bouncing you back up. This spreads the force of the landing across your whole body, which is what makes a soft landing possible.

Your Activity Leader starts with a safety talk on the ground and shows you the jump position, which you practise before you climb. When it's your turn, you head up the tower stairs one at a time. At the top, your Activity Leader checks that you're ready and the airbag is clear. Then it's over to you. Step off, drop and land, then climb carefully off the side of the airbag so the next jumper can go.

It's a brilliant challenge to take on together. For lots of children, and plenty of grown-ups too, standing at the edge is the scary bit, and stepping off anyway can be a real confidence boost. Nobody has to jump. It's completely fine to climb up, have a look and walk back down the stairs. Cheering each other on from the ground is half the fun.

You'll need to be able to climb stairs without help, and Air Drop isn't suitable if you're pregnant or have an ongoing injury.

Comfortable clothes you can move in and shoes with a good grip for the tower stairs. Empty your pockets and take off jewellery or anything sharp. Tie back long hair before you climb too. Your Activity Leader will let you know if shoes need to come off before you jump. The only other thing to bring is your bravery.

You might also like Zipwire, Climbing Wall and Tree Climbing.

See all Camp Kindling activities