There are different types of flight simulator but they can be broken down into 3 main groups. A simple home PC type of simulator controlled using the keyboard mouse and often a joystick. Full flight simulators are sat on a motion platform that simulates the accelerations that pilots feel when flying the real aircraft. These cost many millions of pounds and are very expensive to use. Sitting between these two is the fixed base simulator which is what we use.
Fixed base simulators are essentially the same as the full flight simulator apart from as the name suggests they don’t move. The cockpit (or flight deck as it is often referred to in these days of political correctness) is identical to the real aircraft and all controls and systems are simulated to function the same as they do on a full size aircraft. Often the ‘outside’ view on a fixed base sim. are either none existent or very rudimentary because the focus is on aircraft systems rather than flying. However we decided right from the start that the graphics are one of the most important elements of the simulation experience and with this in mind we started with a 220 degree wrap around high definition bespoke visual system. However this doesn’t mean you cant fly in zero visibility if you wish. In fact we can simulate all weather conditions, you tell us and we will make it happen!
We have assembled our simulator ourselves using what we know are the best components from several manufacturers. We have spent several years working on this project and have been operating a second simulator throughout this time to perfect the systems and test components. The simulator you will ‘fly’ has been built by its owners both of whom are pilots with over 40 years of flying experience and qualified to fly the Boeing 737. However flying skills aren’t of much use when it comes to building a simulator but the fact that one of the partners is a mechanical engineer and the other a specialist auto technician who specialised in electronic diagnostic work has helped a great deal!
Obviously when it comes to creating a simulator there are limits as to how far to go when balancing cost of build and the cost to the customer. Our plan was to keep the cost to the customer at a an affordable level whilst still providing a realistic experience.
For those who are used to flying the 737 you will notice one or two differences, such as the controls feel slightly lighter than on the aircraft when airborne and the method of switching between baro and rad for the decision heights is very slightly different. Other than that it is easy to forget you are flying a simulator!
If you are a pilot converting to the 737 NG then we can highly recommend spending some time in the simulator practising procedures and getting familiar with the systems as everything works as it does on the aircraft.
We believe we have built an outstanding simulator and are sure you will agree when you come to visit!
Accessibility
The simulator is situated on the first floor and up two flights of stairs, unfortunately there is no lift and it is about an 80 meter walk along a corridor to the sim room.
People with limited mobility may struggle to get into the seats as with the real aircraft there is limited head room.
If you have any doubts or any questions please get in touch before booking.