Flight simulation in the real cockpit 70 minutes of real experience!Plane lovers must see

Experience a 70-minute flight simulation in a real cockpit in Tokyo, Japan—an activity that turns your aviation dreams into reality. This tour offers you the chance to pilot a full-scale Boeing 777-300ER simulator, accompanied by a knowledgeable pilot instructor. For about an hour, you’ll get to sit in the actual cockpit, manipulate real buttons and switches, and even choose your preferred flight route from around 45,000 options worldwide. The price is approximately $281.51 per group, making it a unique, personal experience for those passionate about flying.

We love how this experience provides a hands-on opportunity to understand what it takes to be a commercial airline pilot. Seeing the cockpit’s full-scale controls and hearing the engine sounds sampled directly from real Boeing B777 jets gives you a sense of authenticity and immersion. Plus, the presence of a professional pilot makes all the difference—you’re not just pretending, you’re learning from someone with real flight experience.

However, one potential consideration is the complexity of the setup. As one reviewer mentioned, it’s “complicated but fun,” so travelers should be prepared for an experience that might require a bit of focus and patience, especially if you’re new to flight controls. But if you’re a plane lover, this detailed, technical environment will be a highlight.

This tour is best suited for aviation enthusiasts, families with children interested in flying, or anyone curious about what goes into operating a commercial aircraft. If you’re looking for a straightforward sightseeing activity, this might not be the perfect fit—this is an interactive, technical experience meant for those eager to learn and pilot.

Key Points

• Authentic simulation with real airplane controls and software used by pilots.
• Choose from 45,000 worldwide airports to customize your flight route.
• Professional pilot instructors accompany your flight, adding expertise and safety.
• Includes a detailed briefing and opportunity to ask questions during the experience.
• Ideal for plane buffs or those curious about aviation technology.
• Non-refundable booking means you should be sure before reserving.

A Detailed Look at the Flight Simulation Experience in Tokyo

Location and Setting

Nestled in Tokyo, the activity takes place in a dedicated facility where the real cockpit is housed. The starting point, at 6-chome 7-29 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa City, offers convenient access via public transportation, making it easy to reach despite Tokyo’s busy urban environment. The experience begins with check-in, where staff dressed in pilot shirts will greet you and guide you through the process, setting a professional but friendly tone.

What’s Included in the Experience?

Once checked in, you’ll be led to a mockup of an Airbus 320 cabin—a comfortable space that acts as a waiting lounge before the flight. When the moment arrives, you’ll take your seat in the full-scale Boeing 777-300ER simulator. The cockpit has full-size switches and buttons, with software that mirrors real aircraft systems. This authenticity is exactly what makes this experience stand out—everything is designed to replicate what real pilots handle during flight.

The Flight Planning and Boarding Process

Before takeoff, you’ll work with staff to select your favorite flight route from a global database of about 45,000 airports, including iconic destinations like Dubai, New York, Paris, Istanbul, and Honolulu. You can specify weather conditions, time of day, and even request to control the aircraft yourself. The staff are quite accommodating—mention your interests or ask questions during the briefing.

The pre-flight setup is interactive and engaging, with the staff guiding you through the process of setting your flight plan. When everything is ready, the engines start, and your simulation begins. As one reviewer noted, “the engine has started, and the flight is ready,” giving you a real sense of stepping into a cockpit.

The Simulation Itself

During the 70-minute session, you’ll experience a full cockpit environment complete with engine sounds sampled directly from Boeing B777 aircraft, which adds to the realism. The instructor, a seasoned pilot, is there to assist, explain controls, and answer questions. Whether you want to hold the control stick yourself or simply observe, the staff support your preferences.

You can also engage with the various switches and gauges, getting a close-up view of what pilots see and handle during a flight. The experience is flexible—if you’re curious about specific aspects of flying, just ask. Some participants choose to focus on flying, while others prefer a more observational role—either is possible.

The Views and Atmosphere

While you won’t see actual outside scenery through the cockpit windows, the simulation software provides realistic visuals of your chosen route. For those interested in scenery, the views from major airports like JFK or Dubai are particularly impressive, especially when you set the aircraft for takeoff or landing scenarios.

The Instructor and Support

Having a professional pilot present adds tremendous value. Not only does he ensure safety, but he also offers explanations that deepen your understanding of aviation. The review from Michael even mentioned that the staff “served a drink and a small treat,” contributing to a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Booking and Practicalities

Booking is typically made 20 days in advance and is straightforward through Viator or similar platforms. The experience lasts about 70 minutes, which includes briefing, flight, and debrief. It’s a private activity, so you won’t share the cockpit with strangers, enhancing the personal feel.

Who Will Appreciate This?

This experience is particularly well-suited for aircraft fans, tech-minded travelers, or anyone who has always wondered what it’s like to pilot a commercial airplane. It’s also a fun activity for families or groups—there’s room for friends or family to watch and ask questions.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The reviews offer a balanced perspective. One reviewer, Michael, gave it 4 out of 5, describing it as “complicated but fun.” He appreciated the authentic environment and the fact that “this activity brings new respect to pilots everywhere.” Another aspect highlighted in reviews is the stunning views from the simulated routes, especially at busy international airports like JFK or Dubai.

Though some found the experience challenging due to the complexity of controls, most agreed it was well worth the effort for aviation lovers. The fact that the cockpit is full-scale and uses real aircraft software makes the simulation feel genuine.

The Value of This Experience

At roughly $281 per group, the price might seem steep for a single hour, but the depth of realism and the opportunity to pilot a full-scale Boeing 777 justifies it for those passionate about flying. For plane enthusiasts, this is a rare chance to be in a real cockpit, not just look at one from a distance.

Compared to other experiences, the personalized guidance from a real pilot and the chance to operate actual controls make this a special, educational outing that’s worth considering if you’re looking for something more interactive than typical sightseeing.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This?

If you’re a flight enthusiast, a pilot-in-training, or someone curious about the mechanics of commercial aviation, this flight simulation tour offers a highly authentic, hands-on experience. It’s also suitable for families with children interested in airplanes, as long as they’re prepared for a technical environment.

Those seeking a relaxing, scenic activity might find this too intense or complex, but for avid aviation fans, it’s a memorable, eye-opening adventure. The presence of a professional instructor corrects the potential for confusion, ensuring safety and understanding throughout.

In the end, this tour stands out as a fun, educational, and truly authentic chance to take the pilot’s seat in a real, full-scale cockpit—something most travelers can only dream of doing. It combines technical detail with genuine excitement, making it a worthwhile splurge for anyone who’s ever wanted to see the skies from the pilot’s perspective.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the activity is primarily designed for adults and aviation enthusiasts, children who are interested in airplanes will likely enjoy the experience. The setting is technical, so younger children should be prepared for a somewhat adult environment and may need supervision depending on their age.

Can I choose my flight route?
Yes, you can select your preferred airport from a list of approximately 45,000 worldwide locations. This allows for a personalized experience, whether you fancy flying over New York, Dubai, or another iconic destination.

What’s included in the 70-minute session?
The session includes a briefing, the flight simulation itself, and some interaction with the pilot instructor. You’ll have the chance to ask questions and perhaps even take control of the aircraft if you wish.

Are there options to control the aircraft yourself?
Absolutely. You can request to hold the control stick and operate the aircraft yourself, or simply observe. The staff are happy to accommodate your preferences and guide you through the controls.

How realistic is the simulation?
The simulator uses the same software as real Boeing aircraft, with full-scale switches and controls. The sounds are recorded directly from an actual Boeing B777 engine, and the cockpit environment replicates that of a real plane, offering a genuine experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Make sure you’re certain before reserving your spot, as you’ll want to fully enjoy this unique aviation adventure.

Ready to take your love of flying to new heights? This flight simulation experience in Tokyo promises an authentic, educational, and fun journey into the world of pilots—and for many, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sit in the captain’s seat of a real Boeing 777.