This listing is for the 20-minute taster flight simulator session. While the experience can be shared with one other person, we recommend opting for a longer session to fully benefit from the simulator. This 20-minute taster is ideal for younger children or individuals seeking a brief introduction to flying, allowing you to experience the simulator and decide if a longer, more in-depth session is right for you before making a larger investment.
Gift Voucher Terms
Gift cards are valid for 12 months from the date of booking.
A voucher will be sent in the post to you- should you require one emailed urgently, please contact us on info@thedeck747.com to arrange for a blank one to be sent to you.
If you wish to use your booking before the voucher arrives in the post, you may present your email confirmation as proof of purchase.
If your voucher is nearing expiry, you may request an extension of 6 months for a fee of £39.95. Please email info@thedeck747.com to arrange this.
All gift vouchers and simulator tickets are non-refundable, but can be rescheduled up to seven days prior to your session, subject to availability.
Take Control of the Queen of the Skies – The Legendary Boeing 747 Experience
Step aboard the authentic top deck of the ex-British Airways Boeing 747-400, registration G-BYGA, retired from commercial service in March 2020 and now meticulously preserved as The Deck 747 at City Airport, Barton, Manchester. This genuine aircraft top deck, complete with the original cockpit, has been transformed into a state-of-the-art flight simulator featuring a full 180-degree wrap-around screen projecting a single, geometrically accurate image for an immersive flying experience. You will have the unique opportunity to sit in either the left or right pilot seat and, under the expert guidance of one of our highly experienced instructors, take off and land at any airport worldwide. This is an unforgettable, hands-on aviation experience that caters to all levels of ability.
What You Can Expect During Your Visit Every individual learns at their own pace, and we pride ourselves on tailoring each session to match your skill level, experience, and interests. Introduction to the Simulator and Controls: For beginners or those new to flight simulation, your instructor will spend approximately five to ten minutes introducing you to the key controls, instruments, and cockpit layout. You will get practical experience handling the controls to gain a solid understanding of how each function affects the aircraft.
Flight Programming and Customisation: Following your introduction, your instructor will program a flight departing from and arriving at an airport of your choice. Whether you prefer a straightforward approach or a challenging landing, multiple attempts are encouraged, and the instructor will provide guidance and tips to help you succeed.
Personalised Flight Experience: Your session can include multiple take-offs and landings, emergency procedures, or scenic flights over iconic landmarks such as flying beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, over Manhattan, performing the renowned Kai Tak approach in Hong Kong, or simulating the “Sully” Hudson River landing. Please discuss your preferences with your instructor upon arrival so they can tailor the session accordingly.
Simulator Technical Details and Accessibility Information
The simulator utilizes authentic 747 cockpit components, calibrated to balance realism and accessibility. While the experience maintains key operational aspects of flying a 747, some complex procedures have been simplified to ensure the session remains enjoyable without compromising the integrity of the simulation. Your instructor will provide detailed explanations and answer any technical questions you may have. You are welcome to bring up to four additional guests who can share your flying time. These guests may take turns flying or simply observe from one of the cockpit’s observer seats. All accompanying guests require an additional person ticket via the product options to gain access to the hangar and simulator. If you would like to extend your experience, 15-minute increments can be added at £35 each. This extra time can be used to explore more emergency scenarios, additional landings, or allow your guests to participate in flying. Accessibility: Wheelchair access is available to the cabin area; however, the cockpit door width limits wheelchair entry. Anyone wishing to enter the cockpit and pilot the aircraft must be able to walk and sit independently in the pilot seat. Children aged seven and above may fly provided they are accompanied by an adult aged 16 or over, who must also be included in the booking as an additional person. Children under seven years old will not be permitted inside the simulator area during operation. Non-paying guests, including children under seven, are not allowed to remain in the hangar while the simulator is running. Due to the physical design of the cockpit, including the distance to rudder pedals and control columns, your instructor may assist with certain flight controls as needed.
As part of your visit, you are encouraged to take photographs inside the cabin business class seats, which form part of the preserved top deck. Exclusive Memorabilia and Gift Options To commemorate your experience, you may choose to add one of two unique collectible items made from parts of the G-BYGA aircraft:
Engraved Aluminium Piece: A genuine piece of aluminium, approximately 6x4 cm, cut from the tail of the aircraft. Each piece is chosen at random and photographed on the flight deck pedestal of G-BYGA in our hangar.
Chef & Sommelier “Club” Whiskey Glass: A limited-edition, 38cl glass engraved with a high-polished disc of fuselage skin from G-BYGA, along with The Deck logo. Dimensions are 93mm diameter by 87mm height. Each glass comes with a certificate of authenticity and represents a premium collectible for aviation enthusiasts. Both memorabilia items can be added during booking via the product options and make an exceptional keepsake of your flight simulator experience.
Booking, Terms, and Conditions Please note this flight simulator experience ticket is non-refundable; however, you may change your booking date and time up to seven days prior to your session. All rescheduling requests must be sent to info@thedeck747.com to confirm availability. This listing is subject to the full terms and conditions outlined on the General Info tab at www.thedeck747.com. We advise all customers to read and understand these terms prior to booking. The Deck 747 is open seven days a week, with availability generally within 10-14 days from booking. To check current availability or to arrange your session, please contact us via the chat box on our website or email info@thedeck747.com with your preferred dates and times.
Thank you for choosing The Deck 747. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for a truly memorable and immersive flight simulation experience.