YOUNG pilots at 229 (Farnham) Squadron Air Training Corp can now take to the skies without leaving their headquarters after painstakingly building a top-of-the-range flight simulator from scratch, with a helping hand from the Lions Club of Farnham.

The simulator, which boasts 180 degree vision, a realistic cockpit and aircraft-style seats donated by Jaguar, has been some two years in the making - crafted by cadets themselves with the help of civilian instructor Sean Hammond.

Last year the Lions donated £2,000 towards a high-spec computer to power the simulator, and members of the group were recently invited to the cadets’ HQ at the TA Centre in Guildford Road to see the impressive machine in action and have a go in the hot seat.

The simulator uses Google Maps to create an immersive flight experience, giving the cadets the opportunity to fly civilian aircraft from Blackbushe, Farnborough or airports further afield without the usual cost or logistical challenges this presents.

It also supplements their learning elsewhere and real-life flight experiences, ultimately setting cadets on their way towards a BTEC in aviation studies and for some even a Private Pilots Licence.

Nick Filler, 229 Squadron commanding officer, said: “The simulator provides a simple way for cadets to get into an aircraft environment and see how the controls work. Rather than demonstrate how ailerons work on the white board, for instance, we can now load up the flight simulator and show them.

“Not many other squadrons have this set-up and it’s on every night. For new recruits, this is where they start their flying experience. We want a second one next so we can practice formation flying!”

The brains behind the simulator, Sean thanked the Lions for funding the “top end” PC, and also Jaguar for the seats - particularly after going the extra mile to remove their airbags - and a parent of one of the cadets for donating the main projector screen.

Commenting on the finished product, the Lions’ Keith Harris added: “It is amazing what can be achieved with a little bit of money.”

Farnham’s 229 squadron was founded at the very infancy of the Air Training Corp (ATC) in 1941, and currently counts more than 40 cadets in its ranks.

As well as flying experiences, the squadron also offers rifle shooting opportunities, the Duke of Edinburgh scheme and supports numerous community events throughout the year. For more information visit www.229sqn.org.uk/home or find 229 (Farnham) Sqn ATC on Facebook.