Every so often a design is so iconic it defines an industry for decades. Like Boeing’s now-legendary 747 — the plane that coined the term Jumbo Jet, and quickly became synonymous with long haul flights after it was introduced more than 50 years ago. Known as the Queen of the Skies, its inimitable upper floor ‘hump’ remains instantly recognisable, so the opportunity to step into that cockpit and take control of this groundbreaking engineering feat is always going to be exciting.
Founded during the pandemic as a hobby business specialising in aviation memorabilia and parts, in 2021 Doors2Manual made the decision to take that model further by investing in a new community attraction for Manchester’s air travel fans. The Deck 747 is the 16 metre-long top deck of a Boeing 747-400. Here, you can step into the cockpit to use a professional flight simulator, and the space is also available to hire for special occasions. Situated at Barton Aerodrome, close to the Trafford Centre, just off the M60, the oldest continually working airfield in our city region is the perfect home for this unique destination.
Anyone aged eight years and over can try their hand at piloting, and should expect unparalleled realism via 220-degree immersive surround visuals. Choose where you take off, land, and the route, and for groups there are competitive games to take part in. More advanced workshops are also on offer, giving you chance to learn more about the role of pilots and the systems keeping these incredible machines in the air, delivered by former British Airways training captains. Once your done at 30,000 feet, the on-site aviation shop is a trove of aircraft trinkets and collectibles, retired planes, cabin crew keepsakes, military items and up-cycled gems. Meanwhile, fear of flying courses are provided for those who want to overcome anxieties, or the brave may prefer a paragliding lesson. Prices begin at £74.95 with various packages to suit different needs, and there’s also a cafe serving refreshments after that intercontinental flight or, for those needing more of a refuel, a restaurant on the airport grounds. If you’re searching for a space to take your special event to new heights, Deck 747 can cater to birthday parties, conferences and even weddings, as they’re fully licensed for those too.