Flight enthusiasts can enjoy the experience of a British Airways Boeing 747 once more, thanks to a new authentic simulator on the outskirts of Chester.
The final commercial British Airways Boeing 747 flight took place in October 2020, before the fleet was grounded.
Saving one of the aircraft from the scrapheap, since December 2020, a small team of aviation professionals and enthusiasts have been working behind the scenes on the special project near Tattenhall.
Three years of restoration and engineering are now complete and 744 Experience are very pleased to announce that the most advanced and complete Boeing 747 Flight Simulator and Upper Deck experience in the UK is now open.
Utilising large original sections of the retired British Airways B747 fleet, this is a passion project with high levels of detail and finish. An experience as close to flying on the real aircraft as is possible.
Thanks to the dedication and determination of the team, the original cockpit from British Airways B747-400 registered G-CIVM now 'lives on' as a fully operational fixed base B747-400 flight simulator.
The experience is fully immersive, with the addition of the entire seated Upper Deck Business Class cabin from British Airways B747-400 registered G-BYGG.
Due to the level of functionality and operation, it is a unique facility in the UK and is a simulator that British Airways ex B747 flight crew, passengers and enthusiasts are thrilled to be able to ‘fly' once again.
The 744 Experience team's focus throughout has been to preserve both the authenticity of the aircraft and the legacy of the British Airways 747-400 fleet.
For over 50 years the Boeing 747 helped to bring affordable global air travel to millions of passengers. British Airways flew one the largest Boeing 747 fleets and their -400 type was much loved by both passengers and her crew who were privileged enough to work onboard this special aircraft.
However, the almost total grounding of commercial aviation during Covid-19 and a decision to bring their planned retirement forward, brought a hasty end to what was arguably the favourite aircraft of the world's favourite airline.
The 744 Experience team were inspired to preserve some of the history of the British Airways 747 and to bring key sections back to life.
People can now book a 'flight' at the site in Peckforton Stables, Back Lane, Tattenhall, with the chance to take to the cockpit and fly to a choice of multiple global destinations. These feature 220-degree visuals and an experienced, friendly instructor at the side to prevent any unforeseen barrel rolls or turbulence for passengers.
No previous flying experience is necessary, and simulator sessions are suited to those aged 14 and above, due to the height needed to reach certain controls.
For those not flying, they can sit in the business class Upper Deck, and people can book 'short haul' packages of 90 or 150 minutes, or 'long haul' flights of longer than three hours.
Advanced bookings can be made at the 744 Experience website at https://www.744experience.co.uk/
The company is also offering special events such as an afternoon tea on June 8 and July 20, which will include a glass of Champagne, an in-flight safety briefing and a chance to visit the flightdeck.
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