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  • 1h 30m
  • Documentary
Whether it's heavy metal such as the Boeing 747-400, past supersonic marvel Concorde, or fly-by-wire technology from Airbus we show you just how these airliners are operated and flown by major airlines such as Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, Airtours, BMI, Cathay and others. You'll take a privileged position as our multiple camera set-up and digital audio sound will transport you almost literally into the flight crew's seats as the pilots explain how the systems work, checklists are followed and the aircraft flown. You'll even get to hear relevant ATC too!

14 episodes

Series Premiere

1x01 Airbus A320-200

Series Premiere

1x01 Airbus A320-200

  • no air date1h 30m

Captain Alan Dix, Chief Pilot of Inter European Airways, invites you to join him and his crew on the flightdeck for an unparralled insight into how this modern airliner is operated and flown on a regular flight across Europe.

86 minute DVD Inter European Airways
Birmingham > Zakinthos > Birmingham
Enter the world of Fly-By-Wire
Captain Alan Dix takes you through the systems and procedures
The programme was filmed using 4 cameras to give you an unparalleled view of take-offs and landings, including external shots, during the round trip from the UK to Greece.

In addition to seeing and hearing all key aspects of the flight and aircraft operation from the aircrewâ??s perspective, this multi camera shoot programme you will see and hear the full briefing for the take-off from Birmingham, along with checklists, ATC clearance, procedures needed in the event of an emergency, together with descent and arrival into Zakinthos.

Alan takes time during the flight to give you details of how the aircraft is operated and flown. Amongst the many systems discussed are: Fly-by-wire, ECAM (Electronic Centralised Aircraft Monitoring), EFIS (Electronic Flight Instruments System), PFD (Primary Flight Display), how to program and understand the FMGS (Flight Management and Guidance System), Meteorology, Weather Maps, Navigation, Electrics, Hydraulics, Fuel Systems, aircraft performance and many more subjects.

Whatever your interest in airliners and aviation, this is a truly educational programme for all to enjoy.

About the Aircrew
Captain Alan Dix was the Chief Pilot of Inter European Airways, flying the Boeing 757 and Airbus A320. He has the unusual distinction of holding the CAA type rating examiner status on four of the most modern glass cockpit civil airliners: Boeing 737-300, Boeing 757, Fokker 100 and Airbus A320. Alan learned to fly with the Royal Air Force, becoming a Q.F.I. He was previously an examiner on BAC 1-11s with Dan Air, and Fokker 100 fleet manager with

1x02 Airbus A320 (Simulator)

  • no air date1h 30m

This programme takes you to the SAS Flight Academy in Stockholm and covers essentials such as dealing with engine failures through to how to barrel roll an A320!

Led by one of our most popular presenters, Captain Alan Dix, your journey begins in the classroom for a refresher course on the layout of the A320, before looking at the workings of this $13 million six-axis simulator.

Once inside the sim you are invited to take the right hand seat for this detail. Alan will show and explain, in a clear and easy to understand way such things as Rejected Take Off (RTO), engine failure after V1 and the actions that are necessary to control this 62 tonne airliner. Alan also shows you how to accomplish a barrel roll in the A320! Or perhaps you need a refresher on how to do an autoland to runway 24 at Manchester?

This programme contains many more interesting facts and details on how pilots train in the simulator. It's perfect for those that want to take their airliner flying a little more seriously, either on home computers or with a view to taking up a career as a professional pilot; or simply enjoy this entertaining programme.

1x03 Airbus A330-200

  • no air date1h 30m

Join the flight crew in the high-tech cockpit of an Airtours Airbus A330-200 and see just what it is like to "fly by wire" one of the world's most advanced passenger aircraft. Your exclusive behind-the-scenes journey starts as the aircraft awaits departure from the stand at Manchester.

Taking off from runway 24R, you'll climb outbound for the Atlantic seeing and hearing everything that happens from check-lists, crew briefings and communication with Air Traffic Control until your arrival and shut-down.

The experienced aircrew will give you a guided tour of the Airbus' flight deck as you establish in the cruise at 35,000 feet. Amongst the many systems explained are the electronic management and glass cockpit systems such as EFIS, FMGS, MCDU and the overhead panel. The Captain will also explain some of the differences between the A330-200 and the Airbus A320.

Naturally there's more than the 'office' to look at and you'll see views of departure, in flight, approach and landing with multiple camera angles both from the cockpit and outside.

1x04 Aerospatiale-BAC Concorde

  • no air date1h 30m

Captain David Rowland and Senior Flight Engineer Roger Bricknell will take you on a full guided tour of this incredible aircraft, starting with an introduction outside the hangar at London Heathrow and a detailed 'Walk Around' including the nose and visor system which you see working.

During the two flights David and Roger guide you through the systems that enable this aircraft to fly at twice the speed of sound. You are shown in detail the procedures required to achieve and cruise at 1350mph. Find out about the special takeoff procedure that is required from JFK's 31L runway, checklist procedures, fuel transfer, centre of gravity changes and many more details.

1x05 BAe 146-200

  • no air date1h 30m

This programme, filmed with pioneering budget airline Debonair, provides an amazing insight into this 'Whisper Jet' on a round trip from London Luton to Rome Ciampino.

You'll join the crew at Luton for a departure from runway 26, with the Captain as Pilot Flying. Once in the cruise he takes time to give you a detailed tour of the flightdeck and gives you many details about the systems and operational requirements of the 146, including the MWS (Master Warning System) with a demonstration of how the system works. He'll also take you through the flight control systems and engines.

En-route you are treated to a spectacular view of the French Alps before then making an approach to Ciampino's runway 15. On the return leg the Captain again takes you through more systems including the TMS (Thrust Management System) and the First Officer takes you around his instrumentation. The aircrew also give you some fascinating background on becoming an airline pilot.

It's then back to Luton for an approach to runway 26. Throughout the flight you'll hear relevant Air Traffic Control and follow the checklists and procedures as you discover the 146 in a unique television experience.

1x06 Boeing 737-300

  • no air date1h 30m

Join former British Airway's budget airline 'Go' on a round trip from London Stansted to Lisbon, Portugal in the flightdeck of one of the world's most popular airliners.

Commencing at London Stansted airport on a brand new aircraft this programme will show you how one of the mainstays of airliner travel is flown and operated on a busy short-haul route across Europe. You'll not only get the best seat on the aircraft, but an extensive tour of the flightdeck and systems such as EFIS (Electronic Flight Instrument System), engine instruments, auto-thrust system and MCP (Mode Control Panel) amongst many others.

Of particular note, you'll get a very detailed look and explanation of the system pages of the FMC (Flight Management Computer) which includes: Progress, Climb, Cruise, Descent, Legs, Approach, Reference, Route, Direct Intercept, Departures/Arrivals and the Hold Pages.

Not only will you see virtually every aspect of the flight from both inside and out, including a pre-flight walk round, but you'll also hear relevant Air Traffic Control for the flights. You can even follow the crew checklists as you discover the features of the B737-300 from the privileged position of the flightdeck!

1x07 Boeing 747-200

  • no air date1h 30m

Take a seat in the cockpit with the aircrew on a Virgin Atlantic scheduled return flight from London Gatwick to Miami, Florida. This documentary-style programme will show all that happens on the flightdeck and what is required to fly this classic Jumbo jet, one of the last to still employ a Flight Engineer.

The three-man crew from Virgin Atlantic will guide you around the various systems that make this a truly "Classic" Jumbo aircraft. You will see and hear all key aspects of the flight and aircraft operation from the aircrew's perspective. This multi-camera shoot programme will introduce you to such systems as the INS (Inertial Navigation System), Selcal (which is a selective calling system and is part of the aircraft communications system) and many others.

There is a detailed tour and explanation of the Flight Engineers systems panel, encompassing the engine secondary instrumentation, electrics, fuel, hydraulic and air conditioning panels. Plus the aircrew will show you the many systems which make up the overhead panel and take you through topics such as TCAS (Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System), NATS (North Atlantic Track System) and a flight progress Chart.

This programme is suitable for anyone who is interested in how these aircraft fly. A truly fascinating programme for all to enjoy on one of the world's best loved airliners.

1x08 Boeing 747-400 (CPA)

  • no air date1h 30m

Join Cathay Pacific Airways on a flight from London Heathrow into one of the world's most demanding and exciting landings - Hong Kong's Kai Tak airport.

Your pilot's eye view will give you an insight into the worlds most popular and well-known civil aircraft - the mighty Jumbo Jet.

During the programme we position you on the flightdeck for the departure from London on flight CX250 and see the take-off first hand alongside the Captain and First Officer.

In the cruise we take you to the Cathay 747-400 simulator in Hong Kong. This multi-million dollar simulator is used to show you some incredible facets about the -400 that would not be possible on a scheduled flight. Demonstrations include a full take-off from 09R at Heathrow, from engine start-up (including a hot engine start), high and low speed stalling with dramatic effect, engine fires, plus much more. You'll receive full explanations of what is happening along with views of systems such as the PFD (Primary Flight Display).

Then we go back to flight CX250 for the landing into Kai Tak. Our multi-camera shoot of one of the world's most demanding landings is something to treasure forever. As educational as it is exciting this programme is a unique way to experience airliner travel!

1x09 Boeing 747-400 (VIR)

  • no air date1h 30m

In this comprehensive look at the mighty Boeing 747-400 you join the crew on the flightdeck of a scheduled Virgin Atlantic flight from London Heathrow Airport, to San Francisco, in the USA.

Captain Alan Carter takes you through a detailed look at the preparations for the journey from the crew despatch room then crew walk round and outside inspection. Moving to the flightdeck you'll follow the crew briefing, pushback, engine start and taxi for a departure from runway 27R.

In the cruise you will be given a guided tour of systems including the Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS), Engine Indication and Crew Alerting System (EICAS), Flight Management Computer (FMC) and the Mode Control Panel (MCP). Plus there's a detailed look at the engine start procedure and information on electrics, hydraulics, air conditioning and more.

You'll then follow the approach brief and descent into San Francisco International's runway 28L. During the flight you will not only see just how the aircraft is flown but will be able to follow Air Traffic Control, see the briefings and the checklists and procedures carried out in the cockpit on a real scheduled airline flight - multiple camera angles show you it all, inside and out!

1x10 Boeing 757-200

  • no air date1h 30m

Join popular holiday airline, Airtours, for a privileged perspective from the high-tech flightdeck of a flight from Manchester in the UK to Dalaman in Southern Turkey. Learn about the cockpit and instruments on this fascinating aircraft - this is a television experience not to be missed!

The trip starts at Manchester International airport where the Captain invites you into the flightdeck. Once on board, follow the cockpit briefing, watch engine start-up and observe the many procedures necessary to get the aircraft safely into the air.

You will witness both the take-off and landing from the jump seat, and once in the cruise you will also be given a full guided tour of the cockpit instrumentation including the EADI (Electronic Attitude Director Indicator), EHSI (Electronic Horizontal Situation Indicator), EICAS (Engine Indication and Crew Alerting System). The Captain will also show you how the EICAS system works, including the alert, caution and warning operations.

In addition to the guided tour of the 'office', you'll hear the Air Traffic Control for the flight and follow the checklists as we give you the opportunity to explore this popular aircraft with an experienced Captain.

1x11 Boeing 767-300ER

  • no air date1h 30m

See how a twin-engined airliner is flown using special Extended Range procedures on a holiday flight from London Gatwick to Orlando, Florida. Take your place in the cockpit as the experienced aircrew of Leisure International Airways explain systems, procedures and instruments of this sophisticated airliner.

This programme was shot with 4 different cameras so you'll see and hear all key aspects of the flight and aircraft operation from the aircrew's perspective. Briefings and procedures, including departure and arrival are discussed in detail, plus of course the multiple cameras used give you an unparalleled view of both take-off and landing. We also show you the aircraft being loaded with cargo and baggage along with the fuel required for this transatlantic flight.

After departure from Gatwick, you will learn in detail about ETOPS (Extended Twin Range Operations) and the implications of flying a twin engine aircraft over the Atlantic. TCAS (Traffic alert and Collision Avoidance System) is shown and explained.

1x12 Boeing 777-200

  • no air date1h 30m

Take your flightdeck seat on a Cathay Pacific Airways flight from Auckland, New Zealand to Singapore and see how this 21st century airliner is operated and flown.

PLUS take a ride in the full motion simulator and learn about the flight systems and emergency operations!

To start with, you'll join a senior Cathay Captain in the cockpit about an hour out of Auckland where you will witness a rare display: an approach in the landing configuration, followed by a Go-Around, a high speed low level (approximately 500ft.) fly past finally followed by a landing. We then take off from Auckland, destination: Singapore.

As the aircraft cruises to its destination we'll take you behind the scenes and into the B777 simulator in Hong Kong. This gives the Captain the opportunity to give you a guided tour of the LCD equipped flight deck where you'll learn about Fly-by-Wire (FBW), Electronic Check List, Cursor Control Device (CCD) and Multi Functional Display (MFD). We also show you Thrust Asymmetry Compensation (TAC) including a failure of an engine on take-off and how TAC helps the pilot.

Finally we'll then rejoin the B777 for the landing at Singapore. This is a 'must-see' for anyone interested in this incredible jet, whether you are a curious passenger or budding airline pilot!

1x13 Boeing MD-11

  • no air date1h 30m

Dutch airline Martinair and their English-speaking crew welcome you on a round trip from Amsterdam to Palma de Mallorca.

Join the crew for a pre-flight briefing at Amsterdam before departure from Schipol's runway 19L. In the cockpit, the Captain explains the whole departure as he is actually flying it. Once settled in the cruise at 37,000 feet, you'll find out about complex systems such as the FCP (Flight Control Panel), FMA (Flight Mode Annunciator), FMC (Flight Management Computer), FMS (Flight Management System), Climb Thrust and Pitch, Pilot Selection Mode versus FMS Mode, NAV Mode, PFD (Primary Flight Display), PLI (Pitch Limit Indicator) and FPA (Flight Path Angle).

Then follow the aircrew in the descent and approach to Palma de Mallorca using runway 24L. The return trip covers more systems in detail and a descent with an 'autoland' back at Schipol. Hear the Air Traffic Control for the flights and follow the checklists as you discover this state of the art aircraft. 7 cameras and multiple on-screen views give you a very privileged perspective - from the flightdeck!

1x14 Fokker 100

  • no air date1h 30m

In this detailed look at the Fokker 100, presented with British Midland, you'll experience a round-trip from East Midlands International Airport in the UK to Nice in the south of France.

Your journey begins in the crew dispatch office for pre-flight preparations and a detailed briefing for the flight. Next we join the senior British Midland aircrew for a guided tour of the externals of the aircraft, before moving to the flightdeck for departure from East Midlands' runway 27. During the outbound sector the Captain gives you lots of information regarding the aircraft, systems and its operation.

Follow the manual landing into Nice using runway 04L. The return sector has the First Officer as Pilot Flying for a zero flap take-off from Nice's runway 04R. The Navigation Log and fuel calculations are explained in depth and you are taken through the overhead panel in detail. Then settle into the descent for a CAT IIIa Autoland into East Midlands' runway 27.

During the flight you will not only see just how the aircraft is flown but will be able to follow Air Traffic Control, see the briefings, checklists and procedures carried out in the cockpit on a scheduled airline flight.

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