We all have that one person who is impossible to buy for. It is the eternal Christmas conundrum- should I go with the chocolate-coated peanuts, gift basket or the music/book/department store voucher?
But never fear, I think I may have stumbled upon an ingenious idea for that person who has everything… the chance to fly a plane! Well, almost.
I remember the good old days when you could catch glimpses of the cockpit while boarding, or even get a tour if you were a cute enough child, but in these days of high security the cockpit door is firmly closed to the average punter.
Flight Experience is a novel way to get an insight into what exactly goes on in the pointy end of a Boeing 737. The Flight Experience flight simulator is a perfect replica of a 747 cockpit, complete with a plethora of intimidating knobs, toggle switches and levers. Luckily a qualified instructor is on hand to explain procedure and talk you through what seems like an impossible feat for someone with absolute zero flight experience- captaining a jet airliner.
Sitting in the co-pilot’s chair, my charming instructor explains only basic functions of the aircraft panel before taking off, but his professional and calming voice instills confidence- do they specifically train to have such perfect diction and smooth intonation?
We communicate throughout the flight by headsets and before I know it I’m monitoring height and speed like a pro, adjusting the flaps and lowering the landing gear (because we’re not Qantas pilots).
Wrap around screens with accurate visuals and audio add to the effect of immersion, tricking the senses into a belief that you can actually fly, and possibly crash, the plane. This nervous anticipation is all part of the rush that makes the Flight Experience simulator so realistic and exciting. In fact, it is so accurate pilots use it for training purposes.
To get you in the mood for your Flight Experience, the reception and foyer area is designed to look like an airport, complete with departures board listing appointments as boarding, last call or delayed (oops, I was five minutes late!). Every detail has been considered, right down to the boarding pass tickets listing you as captain.
Options for simulator flights vary greatly with over 20,000 airports to choose from and a range of different weather conditions including snow for a festive feel and just in time for Christmas, Flight Experience have added Rovaniemi airport in North Finland, the official home of Santa Claus to their list.
Packages vary from a 30 minute flight in which you practice take-offs and landings around your chosen airport, a 60 minute flight with various city-to-city, challenging approaches or take-off and landing options and the deluxe 90 minute flight.
Flight Experience also offers social entertainment and team-building corporate packages, and birthday party packages catering for up to eight flying guests. Vouchers are available and you might want to stop reading now dad… because this is what you’re getting for Christmas!
Flight Experience:
355 Newcastle Street, Northbridge
9228 8737
www.flightexperience.com.au
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