life at Manchester Flight Sim Centre
Our Mission
Here at Manchester Flight Sim Centre, our mission is to make the thrill of flight accessible to everyone.
Whether it’s your very first time in the cockpit or you’re an aviation enthusiast keen to explore further, we deliver high-quality, immersive experiences that capture the excitement of real-world flying.
Our experienced instructors are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring each session is engaging, enjoyable, and tailored to you.
We believe flight simulation should be fun, memorable, and inspiring, offering every visitor the chance to learn something new, share the experience, and leave with lasting memories.
Our History
Manchester Flight Sim Centre emerged from a passion for aviation and a desire to make the thrill of flight accessible to everyone.
Founded in 2020, our flight simulation school initially offered a single, fixed base, Airbus A320 simulator.
Driven by the demand for realistic flight experiences, we quickly expanded our fleet, adding simulators catering to both aviation enthusiasts and professional Pilots.
Over the years, our Flight School here at Manchester Flight Sim Centre has become a landmark destination, attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond.
We pride ourselves on providing immersive, educational, and entertaining experiences, solidifying our position as a leading flight simulation provider in the region.
Today, we continue to evolve, embracing new technologies and expanding our services to stay at the forefront of the flight simulation industry.
Our Fleet
Here at Manchester Flight Sim Centre, we’re proud to offer a world-class range of fixed-base simulators, each designed to deliver an authentic and unforgettable flying experience.
Boeing 737 – A genuine ex-Jet2 cockpit brings one of the world’s most iconic airliners to life. Perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of commercial aviation.
Airbus A320 – With its advanced fly-by-wire technology, the A320 simulator delivers a highly realistic, modern jet experience that’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned aviation fans.
Light Aircraft (Rockwell Commander) – A genuine four-seat cockpit that captures the true sensation of flying a smaller private aircraft, showcasing the unique charm of general aviation.
Bell Jet Ranger Helicopter– The first of its kind in the North West. Experience the challenge and excitement of rotary flight with our brand-new helicopter simulator, offering a completely different perspective on aviation.
Our Simulators:
Airbus A320
Our fixed-base Airbus A320 places you in a highly realistic cockpit environment, meticulously recreated to mirror the aircraft’s intricate controls and instrumentation.
Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast eager to explore the world of flight or someone looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, this simulator delivers an incredibly immersive and authentic adventure.
Feel the thrill of take-off, navigate challenging weather, and master smooth landings at airports across the globe. High-fidelity visuals, precise controls, and lifelike sound effects combine to make every flight unforgettable.
Perfect for individuals, groups, or corporate team-building sessions, the Airbus A320 simulator offers the ultimate experience for anyone passionate about modern aviation.
Boeing 737
Unleash your inner pilot with our true-to-life fixed-base ex-Jet2 Boeing 737 flight simulator. Built from a genuine aircraft cockpit, every button, switch, and gauge functions exactly as it would in a real Boeing Jet.
Test your skills with realistic scenarios such as take-offs, landings, and navigating through changing weather conditions. High-quality visuals, responsive controls, and detailed sound effects create an unforgettable journey into the world of aviation.
Our realistic simulation will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the complexities and rewards of piloting an aircraft. It’s the perfect way to explore the world of aviation or simply fuel your passion for flight.
Flights can be enjoyed individually or as a shared experience, with two seats available inside the cockpit.
Rockwell Commander
Take the Pilot’s seat and experience the joy of flight in our Rockwell Commander light aircraft simulator.
Now simplified with a TV screen visual setup, this simulator is designed with beginners and casual flyers in mind. It’s an affordable way to explore the basics of general aviation and enjoy the thrill of flying without the complexity of our larger commercial jet simulators.
At just £39 per hour, the Rockwell Commander is perfect for:
- First-time flyers curious about aviation.
- Younger aviation fans. (12+)
- Anyone wanting a fun, relaxed introduction to flight simulation.
This is a beginner-friendly experience only and is not intended for advanced practice.
Bell Jet Ranger Helicopter:
Our brand-new Helicopter Simulator offers a flying adventure unlike anything else in the North West. From the sensation of hovering to the enjoyment of smooth manoeuvres, helicopter flight opens up a completely different side of aviation.
Unlike commercial airliner simulations that focus on airport-to-airport flying, helicopter flights let you explore low-level routes -weaving over towns, gliding through valleys, and even navigating canyon-like terrain. It’s a hands-on and dynamic way to experience flight from a whole new perspective.
Designed to be engaging and accessible, the simulator is perfect for beginners as well as aviation enthusiasts looking for something unique. With responsive controls, stunning visuals, and lifelike sound, every flight is unforgettable.
Whether it’s your first time at the controls or you’re trying something beyond fixed-wing flying, the helicopter simulator delivers an experience that anyone can enjoy.
courses, education & Group flights
Fear of Flying:
Our Airbus A320 fear of flying course is led by experienced instructors who understand what it’s like to feel anxious about air travel. The sessions are calm, supportive, and designed to help you feel more at ease.
Using our full-size A320 simulator, you’ll be introduced to flying in a safe and controlled environment. By seeing and hearing what really happens during a flight, many people find their anxieties begin to ease.
During the course, you’ll discover how an aircraft works, learn why common fears arise, and explore simple techniques to manage your nerves. Everything is explained clearly, with plenty of time for questions, so you can go at your own pace.
To finish, you’ll take part in a short flight in the simulator. This isn’t about practicing or testing yourself -it’s about sitting back, experiencing the sensation of flight, and building confidence in a supportive setting. For many, this has been the turning point in overcoming their fear and feeling ready to travel again.
The Pilot Project: Junior (Age 12-17)
Our junior cadet programme is a structured three-month course created especially for aspiring young aviators aged 12 and over.
All sessions take place in our full-size Airbus A320 simulator, giving cadets the chance to experience one of the world’s most popular commercial aircraft up close.
Along the way, they’ll learn the fundamentals of flying while also developing confidence, teamwork, and communication skills. Each session is guided by one of our experienced instructors, making learning both hands-on and enjoyable.
We offer two membership options:
Standard Membership – £85 per month (two sessions per month)
Ideal for cadets who want to explore aviation at a steady pace while balancing other commitments.
Elite Membership – £165 per month (four sessions per month)
Perfect for those who want to progress faster, with more time in the simulator and additional opportunities to fly.
Spaces are limited for each intake to ensure every cadet gets the best possible experience.
Course duration: 3 months
Minimum age: 12 years
Next intake: Sunday 9th November 2025
Educational Flights:
Looking for a school, college, or university day out that’s exciting, memorable, and truly different? Our educational flight simulator programmes are designed to inspire and engage students of all ages.
Held in our full-size simulators, these sessions give students the chance to experience the world of aviation first-hand - from taking off and landing, to navigating different airports and even handling in-flight challenges. It’s a fun, interactive way to bring learning to life outside the classroom.
Alongside the flying, students will:
- Discover the science and technology behind modern aviation
- Develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills in the cockpit
- Explore the many career paths available in aviation and aerospace
Whether you’re planning an educational visit, a college enrichment activity, or a university society day out, our flight simulator experiences combine learning with adventure - and leave students buzzing long after the trip.
Get in touch today to plan a bespoke session tailored to your group.
Corporate Private Hire:
Lift your team out of the everyday and into the skies with a day they’ll never forget. Our flight simulators combine challenge, laughter, and adrenaline in a way no ordinary away day can.
Swap the boardroom for the cockpit, where co-workers become co-pilots. Together, they’ll tackle take-offs, landings, and even surprise in-flight scenarios - all designed to spark communication, quick thinking, and collaboration.
It’s fast-paced, engaging, and seriously fun. Perfect for boosting morale, strengthening workplace bonds, or simply giving staff a memorable day away from the office.
Every experience can be tailored to your business goals, blending skill-building with pure enjoyment to leave everyone buzzing long after the flight is over.
why choose Manchester Flight Sim Centre?
Realistic Cockpits & Controls
Our simulator fleet combines genuine aircraft cockpits with expertly built replicas to deliver the most authentic flying experiences possible.
The Boeing 737 uses a real ex-Jet2 cockpit, restored and adapted for simulation, while our Rockwell Commander light aircraft features an original four-seat cockpit. These genuine flight decks provide an unmatched level of realism, with every gauge, switch, and control fully functional.
Alongside them, our Airbus A320 and Helicopter Simulator have been purpose-built as high-fidelity replicas. Designed to replicate the exact look, feel, and function of the real aircraft, they capture the essence of modern commercial and rotary flying in a way that’s both immersive and accessible.
Immersive Graphics & Audio
High-definition wraparound visuals recreate the outside world with accuracy, while realistic weather effects add to the challenge and excitement of each flight.
To complement the visuals, each simulator is equipped with full surround sound. You’ll hear the engines power up, changes in tone during climb and descent, and the touchdown on the runway. Every sound is carefully matched to the aircraft to enhance the realism inside the cockpit.
Personalised Experience
Expert Instruction & Guidance
No two flights are the same at Manchester Flight Sim Centre. With the guidance of our experienced instructors, every session can be tailored to your interests, goals, and curiosity.
You’ll have the freedom to choose your route, select your departure and arrival airports, and explore destinations from around the world.
Beyond routes, you can focus on specific aspects of flight that interest you most. Whether it’s learning smooth take-offs, perfecting landings, navigating in challenging weather, or exploring advanced features like autopilot, your instructor will shape the session around what you want to achieve.
Expert Instruction & Guidance
Variety of Aircraft and Scenarios
Expert Instruction & Guidance
Our tailored sessions cater to all skill levels. Learn fundamental flight procedures, gain in-depth aircraft-specific knowledge, and even delve into advanced techniques.
By the time your flight touches down, you'll possess a grounded understanding of aviation principles.
Variety of Aircraft and Scenarios
Variety of Aircraft and Scenarios
Variety of Aircraft and Scenarios
Fly a variety of aircraft all in one place - from the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 to the Rockwell Commander light aircraft and our helicopter simulator.
You decide how and where to fly. Pick your route, set the weather, and take on anything from a gentle cruise to a more challenging approach. Each flight is different, giving you the chance to experience aviation in your own way.
Affordable Flights
Variety of Aircraft and Scenarios
Variety of Aircraft and Scenarios
We believe everyone should have the chance to experience the excitement of aviation. That’s why our flight simulator sessions are priced to be accessible without compromising on quality.
And it doesn’t stop there - we value our returning visitors and reward loyalty with exclusive offers, discounts, and promotions, making it easier than ever to keep coming back and exploring new flying adventures.