Air India’s first ever Flight Simulator, which was once technologically the most advanced flight crew training aid and precisely replicated every function of the aircraft,  is ready for public viewing at Nehru Science Centre at Worli in south-central Mumbai.

Known as ‘Boeing 747-200’, the simulator was extensively used by the pilots, until due to technological obsolescence, it paved the way for new flight simulators.

The simulator was designed and manufactured by the CAE, Canada (earlier known as the Canadian Aviation Electronic Industries Limited) and acquired by Air India in 1980.

The simulator has indigenous six-degree motion system operated by hydraulic jacks, which enabled the whole flight deck to move in the horizontal, vertical and lateral axes while rolling, pitching and yawing.

The flight simulator was in service for about 21 years until becoming technologically obsolete and thereafter it was donated to Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai as an artifact.

The purpose of the artifact is to create awareness about the significance of simulations in the field of aviation among the public in general and students in particular.

This precious artefact provides a glimpse into the remarkable technologies that are associated with flight simulations. After its restoration, the Boeing 747-200 Flight Simulator was launched at the Nehru Science Centre here on Monday, by Regional Executive Director, Western Region, Airports Authority of India Mumbai Keshava Sharma.

On the occasion, a Memorandum of Agreement worth Rs 2 crore was signed for development of Aviation Gallery — Hall of Aerospace, Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai  between Airports Authority of India and National Council of Science Museums.