Flight simulators are extremely important training instruments for professionals of the airline industry. Thanks to modern computer technology, the everyday life of pilots is accessible to us ordinary citizens, and even the worst blunder when using a plane’s throttle and control systems does not prove fatal.
The whole world at Salmisaari in Helsinki
“The majority of our customers come here to have fun and experiment with flying a passenger plane. A few Finnair pilots have brought family members here to see their work environment”, says entrepreneur Panu Fabritius, whose company entitled Takeoff Simulations Oy operates the Airbus A320 simulator at the Salmisaari exercise centre in Helsinki.
At Salmisaari, simulation covers the entire world and more than 24,000 airports. The company offers five ready-made experience packages, one of which focuses on alleviating the fear of flying.
“First we go over the functions of the aeroplane and possible emergencies. Then the customer flies above Helsinki. In the last section we turn off the engines at 7,000 metres and make an emergency landing at the nearest airport”, Fabritius explains.
Old and new models at the Finnish Aviation Museum
The Finnish Aviation Museum, located at the Aviapolis area in Vantaa, allows you to select between four flight simulators.
Those desiring retro experiences can take the controls of a Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter from the World War II era or a twin-engine Piper Aztec.
Visitors interested in modern aeroplanes can choose a Diamond-Da42 general aviation plane or a Boeing 757 jet passenger aircraft, offered in collaboration with the Finnair Flight Academy. For the latter, customers can reserve experience services.
Airbus A320 at Kokkola-Pietarsaari Airport
At Kokkola-Pietarsaari Airport you can fly for 30 or 60 minutes in an Airbus A320 simulator that is perfectly suited for groups celebrating birthdays or anniversaries or holding stag/hen parties, as it seats 12 passengers.
Aerial combat at the Aviation Museum of Central Finland
The Aviation Museum of Central Finland in Tikkakoski has constructed the cockpit of a Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter aircraft, with authentic controls, instruments and switches.
Three video projectors reflect the scenery on three screens. You can choose from several different flight assignments.
Old plane simulators
Satakunnan Simulaattorilentäjät ry in Noormarkku operates two flight simulators constructed from old aeroplanes.
One simulator is based on a Cessna 172N Skyhawk II and the other on a PIK-5b glider.
Simulator reservations:
Takeoff Simulations Oy
Finnish Aviation Museum
Kokkola-Pietarsaari Airport, reservations by phone only: tel. +358 500 664458/Peter Furubacka
Aviation Museum of Central Finland
Satakunnan Simulaattorilentäjät
Photos: Takeoff Simulations Oy
