Kids can become pilots at Manchester Airport’s immersive Flight Academy this half term

Kids will be able to live out their Top Gun fantasy this half term thanks to the return of Manchester Airport’s immersive Flight Academy.

The unique programme, which has been popular among families for several years, is now accepting bookings for five dates across the October half term, with ninety minute-long sessions been split into two age groups – one for children aged four to seven years and another for those aged eight to twelve.

During these sessions, children will be able to learn about all the different jobs that help to keep Manchester Airport running and in action throughout the year.

The first part of the session takes place aboard a retired DC10 airliner where youngsters sit in the cockpit, learn about roles as varied as cabin crew and ground operators, and ‘take control’ of the flight deck.

Manchester Airport Flight Academy

They will then be able to head outside to have a look at Manchester Airport’s runways, watch planes taking off and landing and to see some of the various jobs that they’ve learnt about in action.

Once the session has ended, visiting families will be able to enjoy the Runway Visitor Park’s acclaimed facilities, which includes stunning views over the airfield.

Sights to see include watching aircraft such as the giant A380 coming and going at close quarters, taking in a tour of the Park’s retired airliners including the iconic Concorde, and making use of a sizeable play area and on-site café. Attractions cater to everyone from casual visitors to aviation enthusiasts.

Robert Hassard, manager of the Runway Visitor Park, said: “We are one of the North West’s most popular visitor attractions and the Flight Academy programme offers families the chance to try something a bit different this October half term, inspiring the next generation to think about the possibility of a career in aviation.

Manchester Flight Academy

“From experience, these sessions do book up quickly, so we would encourage anyone who is interested to book now rather than later, to avoid disappointment.”

Manchester Airport’s Flight Academy will be welcoming budding pilots from Monday October 24th to Friday October 28th.

Tickets cost £12 for one adult and one child, and sessions will be open to children between the ages of four and twelve.

For more information and to book tickets, visit the Runway Visitor Park website.