Have a go in a professional-standard Boeing 737 flight simulator near Harrogate that is used to train pilots for commercial airlines around the world. From the moment you step into the venue you're immersed in the aviation world, with the 25 minute pre-simulator flight briefing taking place in a room kitted out like the inside of a Boeing 737 airliner, complete with passenger doors and windows.
The cockpit of the Boeing 737-200 flight simulator is identical to an actual flying version, complete with headsets, oxygen masks, pre and post flight check lists and lifejackets. Being one of the most popular commercial airliners, the 737 revolutionised short and medium-haul flying and is still flying today. It'll be a sheer delight for anyone interested in aviation to be able to take to the Captain's seat in this fully hydraulic simulator to 'fly' this 130-seat 737-200 with a flight range of 2,200 miles, max cruising speed of 575mph and capable of landing and taking off on runways just 1100m long.
Offering full hydraulic motion, you'll feel the rush of acceleration as you apply the throttle once cleared for take off, experience in-flight turbulence and maybe even try your hand at a few emergency situations before feeling the reassuring bump as you (hopefully) touch down on the centre line of the runway at the end of your Boeing 737 flight simulator experience. Oh and don't be surprised if you find yourself next to a very experienced co-pilot - the instructors on this flight simulator include commercial 737 and 747, ex-Red Arrows display and commercial airline trainer examiner pilots!
Experience Summary: Take the Captains seat in a professional 737 simulator and learn from a qualified instructor. Mounted on a hydraulic motion system this simulator delivers a realistic sensation with authentic controls and day or night flights in varying conditions. After a 25 minute briefing you'll settle into the flightdeck and take the controls for your chosen flight time of 20,40, 60 or 2x30 minutes. The sessions are suitable for complete beginners however if you have some flying experience the session can be made more challenging. Shorter flights will give you a great insight into the operation of a 737 however longer flights will allow different scenarios be simulated e.g. a 60 minute flight provides enough time to experience day and night landings, bad weather, air turbulence and even in-flight emergencies. After the flight you'll receive a de-briefing and be presented with a souvenir certificate.
Dads and lads 'duo' sessions provide 2 people with 30 minutes of flying time each.
Availability: Flights usually operate 9.00-5.00 everyday except Sundays and Bank holidays.
Location: near Harrogate in North Yorkshire. The venue has good access from junctions 47/48 of the A1(M) and is within easy reach of Leeds, Bradford and York.
Requirements: Minimum age is 12, there is no maximum age. Expectant mothers are advised not to fly in the simulators.
Spectators and Facilities: Guests are welcome but cannot view the activity or ride onboard the simulator. There is a comfortable lounge area with complimentary tea and coffee.