At first i was a little surprised with an entertainment option in India, specifically related to aircrafts. All the more surprised when i was told that the Boeing 737 cockpit (which is extremely realistic) can be flown by anyone, without knowing how to fly.
Having liked the cockpits visually, i decided to first try the Fighter Jets, which were nice 4D simulators. Although the ambience could be enhaced by covering the cockpits, once the 3D glasses and headphones are on, you dont realise that there is no external covering to the simulator. Found it a little difficult initially but as i got a hang of the controls it was great fun shooting down some enemy aircraft (and getting killed a few times in the process). Then i tried a landing at an airport and succeeded after 3 attempts with some help from the instructor.
Then i used the Boeing 737 cockpit. The instructor took me through a drill on the instruments and then we took off from Zurich airport in Switzerland. I was awestruck with the cabin announcements, engine sounds and big screen displays. The flight instructor allowed me to handle most of the controls. While i cant fly an aircraft after this experience, i can atleast claim that i have seen a realistic cockpit. The icing on the cake was taking my photograph in the cockpit with a pilot hat on!
Pity i didnt know earlier that i could bring a guest along and went alone to experience the cockpit. Else i could have had a companion sitting behind me in the cockpit and watching me fly.
Would be nice if these guys can also add a Helicopter simulator - that would complete the bouquet! Great show guys and it's nice to see realistic entertainment making inroads in India.