What does "airtime" refer to in roller coasters?

Airtime refers specifically to the sensation of weightlessness that riders experience, particularly during the drops or the crests of hills on a roller coaster. This feeling occurs when the coaster drops suddenly, reducing the forces acting on the rider's body. Riders may feel as though they are momentarily suspended in the air, which can be exhilarating and is often a major draw for coaster enthusiasts.

This weightlessness is typically felt when the coaster experiences negative vertical G-forces, which can create that floaty sensation that many riders seek. Other elements of roller coaster design, such as inversions and climbs, do contribute to overall thrill levels but do not specifically encompass the feeling known as airtime. Thus, the correct understanding of airtime focuses on that unique experience of weightlessness during part of the ride.