Page 16 - Cadet review Summer 2022

CEY Wing ATC
CHURCH FENTON
CADETS EXPERIENCE
FLIGHT SIMULATOR
By Flying Officer Chris Terry
Cadets of 2434 (Church Fenton) Squadron recently undertook a visit to the "FlyMe" flight simulator facility. This was a unique opportunity for cadets to experience the reality of being a commercial pilot, flying the Boeing 737 800. The visit began with a briefing by the instructor for the evening - 2434 Squadron CI John Kenning, who is a commercial pilot on different variants of the Boeing 737, and a flight instructor. After this, the cadets split into groups to undertake various aviation related activities.
In the main simulator, the cadets were tasked
with flying a circuit of Doncaster Sheffield Airport
- primarily learning to use the "flight director" function of the aircraft. This involved following a set
of crosshairs whilst hand flying the aircraft smoothly. Once established in level flight, the autopilot was engaged, and cadets were able to practice manipulat- ing the various controls and switches in order to fly the aircraft through this system. Of course, next was the landing phase - requiring a deft touch, and a degree
of confidence to master - and whilst the aircraft is perfectly capable of landing all by itself, the cadets were not to be so lucky and had to do it all themselves (with a little support from their instructor!). The flight deck is a very busy, dynamic environment, and the simulator was able to give a very good representa- tion of the pressures and challenges of the real-life role. Indeed, one cadet who would very much like to become a commercial pilot explained that it was like "rubbing my stomach, patting my head, and singing
a song - all at the same time" - but having said that, she seemed very capable at managing multiple tasks!
it was like "rubbing my stomach, patting my head, and singing a song - all at the same time"
CI Kenning was able to report that all of the cadets showed great aptitude and enthusiasm - demonstrat- ing that aviation is a career for all!
In the other group, cadets were able to experience virtual reality flight simulators. Whilst nothing can compare to the full flight simulator facility, the virtual reality simulators are invaluable in teaching the basics of handling a number of different aircraft types. Cadets were also able to tour the facility which includes modern escape slides, door training, and a full Boeing 737 300 flight deck from a former Leeds Bradford based aircraft. All the cadets were able to experience the full range of activities during the visit - and they left the facility with huge smiles, and a boost to their confidence after their fine performance.
The squadron plans to make a repeat visit, as these activities are invaluable to cadets - they give a true picture of real life careers, and are great fun! The opportunity was also well timed - coming at the end of a module of air navigation and allowing CI Kenning to reinforce some of the theory that the cadets have been taught over recent months.
Thank you to the FlyMe training academy for giving up their time to allow such a great opportunity.
16 CADET REVIEW SPRING 2022