If you’ve ever dreamed of taking the pilot’s seat in a commercial aircraft, or just want to get a real feel for what it’s like to be up in the skies, this Flight Simulator INTERMEDIATE CRUISE in Turin offers a surprisingly authentic taste of flying. While we haven’t personally flown it, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this experience hits the mark for anyone curious about aviation or looking for a unique activity in Italy’s northern city.
What we really love about this experience is its combination of realism and guidance—you’re not left to figure it all out on your own, thanks to a real instructor pilot who’s always on your side. Plus, the full cockpit simulation, with working avionics and hydraulic yoke feedback, makes you feel like you’re sitting in a genuine Boeing 737. That panoramic 220-degree screen and the ability to fly in any weather conditions add to the sense of being truly in control, even if just for an hour.
Of course, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include a full pre-flight setup—things like engine startup and taxi procedures are left out, which might be a slight disappointment if you’re expecting a complete pilot experience. But for most, the core flying experience from takeoff to landing is more than enough to satisfy curiosity or fuel a passion for flying.
This experience is best suited for aviation buffs, curious travelers, or anyone who enjoys high-tech simulations, rather than those expecting a full pilot training or a family-friendly activity. It’s an immersive taste of flight, perfect for adults or older teens rather than young children.
“Excellent!”
Key Points
- Authentic cockpit setup: The simulator boasts full avionics and realistic controls, creating a convincing flying environment.
- Guided experience: An instructor pilot is present throughout to assist and explain each step, making it accessible even for first-timers.
- Flexible flight options: After takeoff briefing, you can choose to fly an entire route or just focus on procedures around the departure airport.
- Impressive visuals: The panoramic screen offers a 220-degree view, enhancing the sense of being in the sky.
- Weather in simulation: You can fly in any weather—sunny, rainy, or foggy—adding to realism.
- Group discounts and mobile tickets: Good options for groups or those wanting convenience.
Once you arrive at the meeting point in Turin’s Via Salbertrand, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and led into the simulator room. From the outset, the experience feels very professionally curated; the aircraft is already positioned on the runway, with engines running and aligned for takeoff. That’s a lovely touch because it saves time and allows you to jump straight into the flying.
The briefing begins with your instructor explaining the basics—what controls you’ll be using, the procedures you’ll perform, and safety tips. This is where some reviews highlight the professionalism of staff like Riccardo or Marco, who are praised for their patience and clarity. One reviewer mentions Riccardo as being “precise and courteous,” helping even beginners feel at ease. If you’re new to flying simulations, this guidance makes a big difference.
Once in the cockpit, you’ll take the helm with a real yoke that mimics the forces of a real plane, thanks to hydraulic control loading. The avionics are fully functional, giving you access to the same instruments a real pilot would rely on. As you perform the takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, and landing, you’ll be surprised how realistic it feels—especially with the full panoramic view displaying the landscape around you.
You have the option to perform several different procedures around the departure airport or fly a complete route. This flexibility means it caters to different interests—whether you want to get a quick feel for takeoff or simulate a longer flight. You can also enjoy some of the views or focus on mastering specific maneuvers, all under the watchful eye of your instructor.
The experience wraps up with the plane still on the runway after landing, which is a nice touch because it emphasizes the realism—you’re not rushing through a quick simulation but experiencing the entire process. As one reviewer noted, “The reality exceeded expectations,” especially for first-time cockpit visitors.
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The Cockpit and Visuals
The cockpit itself is impressively detailed, with all the controls and displays you’d expect in a Boeing 737. Multiple reviews highlight how the cockpit looks identical to the real thing, which adds a layer of authenticity. The 220-degree panoramic screen surrounds you with a vivid, immersive landscape, making it easy to forget you’re in a simulator.
Flyers also appreciate the ability to adjust weather conditions in the simulation, providing a more dynamic flying experience. Whether it’s a clear blue sky or a foggy night, the visuals adapt to create a convincing environment.
The Instructor and Support
The presence of a real pilot instructor is a major plus. Many reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the staff. One reviewer said, “Marco is unsurpassedly prepared, as well as being really nice,” and this kind of support makes the experience more engaging and less intimidating, especially for those new to flight simulations.
The staff is also helpful with explaining the various procedures, from takeoff to landing, ensuring that even those unfamiliar with aviation terminology can follow along.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The ticket price of around $212.44 per person includes most of the core flight activities—takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, approach, and landing. You’ll also enjoy the full avionics and a passenger seat behind the pilot, which adds a bit of comfort and perspective.
However, some things are not included: the engine startup procedure, flight plan compiling, FMC programming, taxi, and aircraft shutdown. These omissions might be a letdown if you’re expecting a fully comprehensive pre-flight experience, but for most participants, focusing on flying from takeoff to landing is enough.
The Practical Side
The experience lasts about an hour, which strikes a good balance—long enough to get a sense of what flying a plane feels like without overstaying. It’s booked on average 37 days in advance, and the flexibility with group discounts and mobile tickets makes it accessible.
The meeting point in Turin is conveniently close to public transportation, making it easy to reach without hassle. The tour is private, so your group has all the attention, which enhances the personalized feeling.
When you consider the reviews and features, this flight simulator ticks a lot of boxes. The full cockpit and realistic avionics make it more than just a toy; it’s a credible simulation that delivers on the thrill of flying. The presence of a professional instructor adds confidence, and the panoramic visuals help immerse you in the experience.
Pricing-wise, it’s certainly on the higher end compared to some other activities in Turin, but the feedback suggests it’s well worth the cost if you’re passionate about aviation or looking for a memorable, hands-on activity.
If you’re traveling with someone who’s a plane fanatic, or even if you’re just curious about how pilots navigate the skies, this experience offers a lot of value. It’s not a full pilot training course, but it’s a genuine, fun, and educational taste of what it’s like to fly a commercial aircraft.
This activity is best for those who enjoy high-tech simulations and want to see what it’s like to fly a plane. It’s suited for adults or older teens who can handle the cockpit environment and absorb some technical explanations. It’s a good pick for aviation lovers, tech enthusiasts, or anyone looking for an unusual activity in Turin.
It’s not likely ideal for young children or those seeking a full pilot training, as some procedures are simplified or omitted. If you’re after a family adventure, check if your kids are old enough to enjoy this type of simulation—many reviews mention that even younger participants found it fun and instructive.
This 60-minute flight simulator experience in Turin is a genuinely engaging way to understand what flying a commercial plane entails without leaving the ground. Thanks to full avionics, realistic controls, and expert guidance, it’s an activity that offers excitement, education, and a sense of achievement. The panoramic visuals and weather customization further boost the realism, making it a memorable adventure for aviation buffs and curious travelers alike.
While it doesn’t cover every pre-flight detail—like engine startup or taxi procedures—the core flying experience is the star here. If you’re looking for something different from typical sightseeing tours, this stands out as a quality, well-reviewed option.
Ultimately, this experience excels at making you feel like a pilot, even if just for a little while. It’s best suited for those passionate about flying, tech-savvy thrill-seekers, or anyone eager to add a unique story to their trip to Italy’s north.
Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.
Is this experience suitable for children?
While many reviews mention family-friendly aspects and positive reactions from younger participants, the activity is primarily aimed at adults and older teens with interest in aviation.
Do I need to know anything about flying beforehand?
Not at all. The instructor guides you through each step, making it accessible regardless of your experience level.
What’s included with my ticket?
Your ticket includes the full flight from takeoff to landing, the use of a full cockpit with working avionics, and a passenger seat behind the pilot.
Are weather conditions simulated?
Yes, you can fly in any weather, which adds to the realism.
How realistic is the cockpit?
Highly realistic. Reviewers consistently highlight that the cockpit looks identical to that of a Boeing 737, with authentic controls and displays.
What are the main procedures I’ll perform?
You’ll handle takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, approach, and landing procedures.
Is there any other equipment needed?
No, everything is provided, including the plane sitting on the runway ready for takeoff.
Where do I meet for the experience?
At Via Salbertrand, 77, 10146 Torino TO, Italy. It’s accessible by public transportation.
Can I fly in any aircraft?
The experience simulates a Boeing 737, which is one of the most common commercial aircraft.
If you’re after a thrilling, highly realistic flying simulation with expert guidance in Turin, this is one activity worth considering. It’s a rare chance to understand what’s involved behind the cockpit controls without any prior experience, and the reviews suggest it delivers on excitement and authenticity.
