Atlantic Flight Training Academy: Boeing 737-800 NG Experience Cork

Experience Airline-Standard Flight Simulation at Cork Airport

The Atlantic Flight Training Academy (AFTA) offers one of Ireland’s most authentic aviation experiences from its main training base at Cork Airport. Internationally recognized for training commercial pilots for airlines such as Ryanair and ASL Airlines, AFTA provides aviation enthusiasts with the rare opportunity to experience professional airline simulation within a real-world flight training environment.

Operating directly from one of Ireland’s busiest aviation training hubs, AFTA combines airline-standard instruction, authentic procedures, and advanced simulation technology to deliver a premium Boeing 737 experience for aspiring pilots and aviation fans alike.

The Professional Boeing 737-800 NG Experience

At the center of AFTA’s simulation suite is a professional Boeing 737-800 NG fixed-base simulator certified as an EASA FNPT II training device. This is not an entertainment simulator or gaming setup, but a genuine training platform used by cadets preparing for airline operations and commercial flight assessments.

The cockpit features fully functional aircraft systems including the overhead panel, Flight Management Computer (FMC), motorized throttles, and realistic Boeing flight deck instrumentation. Combined with an advanced wrap-around visual system, the simulator delivers a highly immersive airline-style flying experience.

Participants can experience everything from basic takeoffs and landings to more advanced airline scenarios such as instrument approaches, low-visibility operations, and abnormal procedures depending on their confidence and experience level.

Why Choose Atlantic Flight Training Academy (AFTA)?

What sets AFTA apart is its direct connection to the professional aviation industry. Sessions are guided by active or former commercial flight instructors who bring real-world airline operating procedures and training standards into every experience.

Being located directly at Cork Airport also adds a unique level of realism. Visitors are surrounded by genuine airport activity, commercial airline movements, and the atmosphere of a working aviation training environment throughout their session.

For aspiring commercial pilots, AFTA is also one of Ireland’s leading locations for simulator assessment preparation and airline interview support. The facility is widely respected within the industry for helping cadets refine their handling skills, cockpit procedures, and multi-crew coordination techniques before airline recruitment assessments.

At the same time, the experience remains accessible to enthusiastic beginners with no prior flight experience required. Sessions can be tailored to suit everyone from curious first-time flyers to serious aviation enthusiasts.

Plan Your Visit

Atlantic Flight Training Academy is based at Cork Airport and is easily accessible from Cork city and the wider Munster region.

Experiences typically include a professional pre-flight briefing followed by approximately 45 to 60 minutes of simulator flight time, depending on the selected package.

Gift vouchers are available and remain a popular option for aspiring pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and unique special occasion experiences.

No previous flying experience is required, although the simulator is particularly well suited to those with a strong interest in aviation and airline operations.