What to Expect From a Flight Simulator Experience Day

Booked a flight simulator experience and not sure what actually happens on the day? Here's a straightforward walk-through, from arrival to landing, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.

Before You Arrive: What to Know and What to Bring

744 Experience is accessible by advance booking only, on private property near Tattenhall, Cheshire, so plan to arrive shortly before your session time rather than earlier. You don't need to bring anything specific, no flying experience or paperwork is required, and comfortable clothing is all that's needed. Sessions are best suited to ages 12 and over, due to the height needed to reach certain flight controls, however, this is more of a guideline than a strict rule. What matters more is the child. A session lasts at least ninety minutes in a real flight deck. If your child is younger and you think they would love it, call us before you book and we will work out together whether it is right for them.

Arrival and Welcome

Your visit starts with a welcome and introduction, where your instructor talks you through how the session will run and answers any questions before you get anywhere near the flight deck. This is a good moment to mention if you have any specific interests, favourite routes, or if anyone in your group is nervous about flying, since your instructor can tailor the session around it. Aim to arrive at least 15 mins prior to your session time.

The Pre-Flight Briefing

Next comes a full pre-flight briefing, covering the basics of the aircraft and the controls you'll be using. You don't need to remember everything, your instructor sits alongside you throughout the flight itself and talks you through each stage as it happens. The briefing is pitched to match what you already know, so it looks different for a complete beginner than it does for a former pilot.

Time at the Controls

Once the briefing is done, you take your seat at the controls of the genuine British Airways 747-400 flight deck. Short Haul sessions run for either 90 or 150 minutes in total, covering take off, cruise and landing at a real airport of your choice, with your instructor guiding you through each phase. The cockpit includes vibration plates and seat shakers alongside the visuals, so you'll feel elements like engine vibration and turbulence as well as seeing them.

What Happens for Non-Flying Guests

You don't need to fly solo. Every booking includes up to 3 non-flying guests completely free of charge, with no extras added on the day. They take a seat in the genuine Upper Deck Business Class cabin for the same simulated flight, so the whole group is part of the experience, not just watching from the doorway.

After Your Flight

Once you've landed, there's time for photos and a chance to properly take in what you've just done, before heading off. Many guests say the whole visit feels shorter than the clock suggests, since there's a lot happening between the welcome and the landing.

Book Your Session

Now you know what to expect, the next step is choosing a session. Short Haul is the best starting point for a first flight.