BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 13. Aviation has always sparked particular interest among a wide range of people, and it’s no surprise, as it represents a fascinating world of advanced technology and unique experiences. This time, as journalists, we had the unique opportunity to not only witness the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, but also to immerse ourselves in its simulator, experiencing the sensation of piloting one of the world's most advanced aircraft for a few hours.
The first thing that stands out when entering the simulator is the stunning level of detail. The simulator reproduces every button, screen, and control panel with such precision that you immediately forget you're on the ground and not in the sky. The control yoke, engine throttle levers, pedals—everything is here just as it would be on the real aircraft. The simulator’s software allows for highly detailed flight simulation, making the experience of "flying" the Boeing 787 Dreamliner incredibly realistic.
The most thrilling part began when I had the chance to attempt a virtual landing at Boeing Field in the US. The tension, focus, and sweaty palms—all these emotions made me realize how crucial precision and composure are for a pilot. This wasn’t just an experiment; it was a real test of skills. For those unfamiliar with aviation, flying such an aircraft might seem daunting. And it truly is! Every step requires deliberate and precise action. Yet the process itself is incredibly captivating.
"Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) became the first airline in the region to operate the Dreamliner, and last year they ordered eight more 787 aircraft to expand their fleet. By providing the opportunity to'steer' such a modern aircraft through the simulator, we aim to inspire and engage the next generation of aviation enthusiasts in Azerbaijan," said Boeing’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Eurasia Paul Righi.
Technologically, the Dreamliner is a marvel of engineering. It’s no wonder that it is highly valued by airlines worldwide, including Azerbaijan Airlines, the first in the region to operate this aircraft.
Overall, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a modern series of wide-body aircraft. It stands out not only for its fuel efficiency but also for passenger comfort, offering larger windows, reduced turbulence effects, and an improved onboard climate control system—making even long flights more enjoyable.
The series includes three models:
- 787-8, which can carry up to 248 passengers and has a range of up to 13,530 km;
- 787-9, designed for 296 passengers with a range of up to 14,010 km;
- 787-10, with a capacity of up to 336 passengers and a range of 11,730 km.
For me personally, this experience was not just an opportunity to 'fly' the Dreamliner but also a real insight into the immense effort behind every flight. It's reassuring to see how technology is constantly evolving, with each new aircraft becoming safer, more efficient, and more comfortable. For those aspiring to become pilots, simulators like the Boeing 787 can be a crucial first step toward realizing that dream.
Notably, during the Formula 1 races (until September 15), visitors at the JW Marriott Absheron Baku can experience these emotions by trying out the Boeing 787 Dreamliner simulator provided by AZAL.
It’s worth noting that AZAL is keeping its nose to the grindstone, pouring resources into state-of-the-art technology to ensure passengers are riding high on comfort. In line with its game plan, the airline is set to give its fleet a facelift by snapping up eight Boeing aircraft by 2030.
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