Get a feel for life in the cockpit with a Pilot Intro Flight F-35 Simulator Experience that places you in a highly realistic fighter jet simulator used to train actual pilots. This aviation experience lets participants step into a full-scale F-35 style cockpit and take on the controls of one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, experiencing flight dynamics, cockpit systems, and mission scenarios similar to what real pilots train with.

During this simulator experience, you’ll start with a briefing on flight controls and aerodynamics before climbing into the pilot’s seat for an immersive session where flight maneuvers, takeoffs, landings, and navigation are all simulated with impressive fidelity. The simulator replicates the sights and sounds of an F-35 cockpit to create an engaging and interactive flight experience that feels closer to the real thing than a traditional video game. 

Any restrictions to participate?

• Age: Participants must be between 12–99 years old (minimum 6th grade).
• Health limitations: Participants must be in good general health and able to safely use a flight simulator. Individuals with conditions that may be affected by motion, flashing visuals, or high-adrenaline simulations should consult a medical professional before participating.
• Physical limitations: Participants must be able to sit upright in a simulator cockpit, operate hand and foot controls, and wear a flight suit.
• Experience level: All levels are welcome.

Who can you accommodate for?

• Children: All participants must pay to participate, children included. Participants must meet the minimum age requirement.
• Individuals with disabilities: Accessibility may vary due to cockpit seating and simulator controls. Guests with specific accessibility needs should inquire in advance.
• Pets: Pets are not permitted. Service animals are subject to building access policies.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours total. Experience timing may vary slightly based on participant engagement during briefings and debriefs.
• What’s included:
  • Use of an authentic F-35 flight simulator
  • Flight suit for the experience
  • Professional flight briefing covering controls, objectives, and mission parameters
  • Two simulator flight missions with instructor supervision
  • Personalized debriefings using The Squadron’s Debrief Methodology
  • A video recording of the flight session sent after the experience
• Who will be present: A trained flight simulator instructor will guide and supervise throughout. Other participants may be present in the facility, but simulator flights are conducted individually.
• Spectators: Spectators are not permitted; all attendees must have a reservation.
• Photo/ video: A video of the simulator flight is included. Personal photography may be restricted inside the facility.
• Specific rules to follow: Participants must follow all instructor guidance, arrive on time, and comply with safety and building security procedures.

How to prepare?

• Weather dependency: This is an indoor experience and runs regardless of weather.
• Arrival: Plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled briefing time to complete registration and receive equipment. Late arrivals may forfeit the experience.
• Parking: Parking is available near 7 World Trade Center; public transportation is recommended.
• What to wear: Comfortable clothing suitable for wearing under a flight suit; closed-toe shoes recommended.
• What to bring:
  • Valid government-issued photo ID (required for building entry)
  • Minimal personal belongings
  • What’s not allowed: Large bags and valuables are discouraged; storage is limited.
• Restrooms/ lockers/ changing rooms: Restrooms are available onsite. Changing into the flight suit is part of the experience; lockers are not provided.

Anything else I should know before going on this experience?

• The experience takes place at 7 World Trade Center, 250 Greenwich Street, New York, NY. Guests must check in at the building front desk and take the A elevator to the 10th floor.
• Personal belongings are brought at the participant’s own risk; the venue is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
• Participation requires acceptance of terms and conditions confirming good health and releasing the operator from liability related to simulator use.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 14 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 2 days before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 2 days in advance means losing the value of your experience.