Best not touch that

If you've always dreamed of taking charge of a jumbo jet, now is your chance. Flying enthusiasts can notch up a realistic flying experience in one of British Airways' full-motion simulators at Heathrow Airport.

Previously reserved for the training of professional pilots, the Boeing 747 simulators were only recently opened to the public. They might double as the ultimate boys' toys, but the simulators are still used to train British Airways pilots. From take-off to landing, it doesn't get more realistic than this.

Starting off with a pre-flight briefing, wannabe pilots are introduced to the maze of buttons, handles and screens on the flight deck, and within 30 minutes' training, they should be ready for take-off.

During a three-hour flight, there is an opportunity to have a go at taking off, controlling the plane in the air and landing, which is harder than it looks. Many budding pilots spend most of their time in pursuit of the perfect landing.

The simulators are as close to the real thing as you can get, and they provide an authentic flying experience. That includes the bumps, so if you suffer a less than perfect landing, you'll soon know about it.
Screens allow you to monitor your progress and flight path.

The 3D graphics are true to reality, so much so that it's easy to forget you are actually sitting in a box, as the Thames and a host of other London sights appear in front of you. The simulators have a range of airport settings, including New York's JFK, and can also be set to different weather conditions and times of day.

This isn't just a thrilling experience, but an interesting insight into what happens on the flight deck. With a professional pilot next to you, it's the perfect time to ask all those things you always wanted to know about flying. It's pretty addictive stuff, and according to BA, many people find themselves returning to Heathrow to try a different model.

Flight experiences are available on a full range of Boeings, including the 737, 747 and the 777 and prices start at £399 for an hour-long session.