Many of you have closely followed the story of the Spitfire MkIX simulator which was built at RAF Coningsby with AuthentiKit flight controls for the purposes of emergency training and display familiarisation.

In fact many no doubt would dearly love to have the opportunity to try out this amazing piece of kit which was built and tested by the engineers of the RAF alongside volunteers from AuthentiKit. Although there were in fact some limited opportunities to do just that in the early days, the simulator has now become far too valuable and important to allow public access and is reserved for pilot training.

This week however the chance to experience an almost exact replica of the BBMF Spitfire simulator will become available to the general public. Over the last few months the volunteers at Thorpe Camp Visitor Centre, a mere 5 minute drive from RAF Coninsgby, have been building their own Spitfire simulator using the exact same AuthentiKit controls used by the BBMF and also the same cockpit shell provided by Creative Cockpits of Cumbria.

The aim is to have the simulator ready for public use in time for the Easter break so if you're looking for a fun excursion for the famility or just for yourself this Easter, why not drop in at Thorpe Camp and visit their Virtual Reality Aviation Centre? As you can see from the photos below the level of attention to detail on the flight controls is remarkable. No less than you'd expect given the experience and passion of the volunteers involved, ranging from retired RAF navigators to an acting Wing Commander!

If you have already visited the Thorpe Camp simulator and been inspired about having your own set of Spitfire controls see our page You Can Build This.