Air Cadets Reach for the Virtual Skies,
Coventry University’s flight simulation suite

Nuneaton Based Air Cadets have been reaching for the virtual reality skies during a visit to Coventry University’s flight simulation suite.

Twelve cadets and three members of staff were given the chance to put their flying skills to the test using three different types of flight simulator, including a full motion simulator as well as one built into the cockpit of a Harrier Jump Jet and another in a Scout Helicopter. The cadets all took to the controls for a full scenario flight, which included take off, a range of basic manoeuvres in the upper air and a landing. The cadets also managed to experience flight in several different types of aircraft including the famous Lancaster four-engine bomber. Several cadets even tried their hand at directing simulated missions using the simulator control workstation.

Coventry University’s state of the art flight simulation suite is primarily used to enhance the teaching and learning experience for engineering and aerospace students. The suite also doubles up as a community resource, which can be used by local air cadets.

Civilian Instructor, Graham Barber of 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron who himself has recently graduated from Coventry University with a degree in Aerospace Systems said, “This was a brilliant opportunity for our cadets to put their classroom based principles of flight training into action and get some first hand experience of flying virtual missions in a variety of different types of aircraft. Most of the cadets had previously used the flight simulation software on the squadron’s PC back at our headquarters but that doesn’t come close to the virtual reality experience provided by Coventry University’s simulators”.

“On behalf of the 121 Squadron cadets I would like to thank Paul Fisher and Mike Basini of the Coventry University's Aerospace Department for giving up their time and giving us the opportunity to use this fantastic equipment”.