Simulation experience

Ever wanted to jump in the cockpit and fly over the skies in an air ambulance? Well, now’s your chance – sort of.

We have converted one of our charity vans into a unique mobile flight simulator. And it’s coming to an event, workplace, school, club or group near you!

Budding pilots can experience the thrill of flying a helicopter with realistic simulations of the physical, visual and auditory sensations of a real flight.

The Sim Van is a unique flying experience suitable for those aged 11+ years.

Take a look at our FAQs below and contact us if you would like to find out more and to check availability.

The Flight Simulator is sponsored by Clear Minds.

The Flight Simulation is sponsored by Clear Minds. Their logo is on the outside door and on the TV screen inside.

  • Our simulation experience is mobile and can be powered from mains electricity or by a portable generator.

    The simulation is almost life-like. You’ll have the same flight controls our pilots have in Helimed56. A cyclic, collective, throttle and pedals.

    Sim Van - internal

  • The Sim Van is a Citroen Relay van and can fit in a normal car parking space. Our van does have an extension which requires extra space, and if we are powering from the generator, additional space will be required for this too.

    We would generally recommend a space of 7 meters by 4 meters.

    Sim Van

  • Your booking will depend on your event opening times. You can book to have us for a half day or a whole day, subject to availability.

    Flight times will vary depending on your mission and how popular the event is, but the average simulated flight time is four minutes.

  • While our Sim Van is very popular, we do try to visit as many events, schools and groups as we can.

    The Sim Van is available to book for free, but we do suggest those flying with us make a donation in support of our charity.

    Inside a van that has been converted into a flight simulator. Orange aircrew flight jackets and helmets are hanging up.

  • Our Sim Van has mini doctor and paramedic flight suits for our junior supporters to try on, as well as a real flight helmet that our pilots and paramedics wear during life-saving missions.

    We also have a cube puzzle, a giant operation game and information about how you can support the charity.

    The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Simulation Van is set up at an event. The side door is open and a giant Operation game is on a table at the front, with a donation bucket on top. Three children are playing with the cube puzzle to the right hand side.

Book the sim van for your event

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Disclaimer:

Please note, the Sim Van is a computer and we will rely on broadband or Wi-Fi connection at events. Sometimes we experience connection issues outside of our control and this may delay the guests experience of the flight simulator. Our staff and volunteers will do their best to get it working again, but this may not always be possible. If we experience a bigger technical issue, our sim van will need to be taken to a tech maintenance garage for inspection and this may mean we need to cancel or arrange an alternative date to attend your event.