26-11-2018

NEW 737 FLIGHT SIMULATOR COMING SOON TO BLACKPOOL AIRPORT

Have you ever wanted to pilot an airliner? The North West’s latest advanced flight simulator experience is coming soon to Blackpool Airport.

Gift vouchers are now available www.737Pro.com for a state-of-the-art simulator that is based on a B737-800NG model, the world’s leading twin-engine passenger aircraft, and it’s just like piloting the real thing. Enthusiasts can take control in the captain’s seat for the full experience of take-off, in flight cruising and landing at international airports of their choice. A qualified pilot will be on hand throughout to guide customers through the full flight experience.

A variety of bespoke packages are available, from individual flight experiences of 30 minutes to full day group bookings. The simulator’s passenger cabin can accommodate other members of your flight party and accompanying family and friends can be involved in the full experience with a clear view of what is going on in the flight deck.

The simulator structure is made from a combination of steel and aluminium, giving it an extremely rigid and realistic feel. The internal sidewalls and ceiling liners are coated in fibreglass rather than moulded from a template, making it feel and sound far less ‘hollow’ than other simulators on the market. The windows are constructed from high-grade tempered glass and coated with an anti-glare finish.

The brain child behind the simulator is commercial pilot Daniel May. Previously a multi-media developer and teacher, he has been working in partnership with Westair to bring the attraction to Blackpool Airport. The simulator has taken 2 years to develop. The new venture will bring several additional year round jobs to the airport and employment will grow again when the business expands further into commercial pilot training. Daniel chose Westair as the ideal business partner to launch the simulator, as it is a well-established business with a long history at Blackpool Airport and significant expertise in the aviation sector.

Daniel May said, “Blackpool Airport was the perfect choice for the launch of the 737Pro. Not only is Blackpool known worldwide for its excellent visitor attractions, Westair runs a successful flying school and has a long and established relationship with Blackpool Airport, making Hangar 8 the ideal location for launching the new simulator.

“Westair has been extremely supportive and we have been working in close collaboration to ensure that the experience is as close to the real thing as possible. We have made sure that every button and dial is fully functional, just as it would be in a real 737 flight deck.”

John Westoby from Westair said, “We are launching the 737Pro simulator to the tourist market as there is nothing like this anywhere locally. The visual effects make it very realistic and our team of experienced staff and instructors will guide customers through all aspects of the journey, whether they have flown before or are a complete novice.”

Fun gift packages will start from just £80 for 30 minutes and Christmas gift vouchers are now available. The first flight simulator bookings will start from 2nd January 2019.

Cllr Mark Smith, Blackpool Councillor and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Enterprise and Economic Development said, “It’s really important to see new enterprises like this take off at the airport and to support them wherever possible. It’s great to see how businesses at the airport are diversifying, embracing new technologies and encouraging a wide variety of visitors, not just from the world of aviation, but people who never thought they could have a fun day out at a working airport!”