Aviation enthusiasts among students of KDU had an exciting opportunity to experience the skies, virtually, during an insightful ‘Flight Simulator Programme’ held over three days (18th, 19th and 20th of November 2024) at Hangar A, Colombo Airport, Ratmalana. Organized by the Student Chapter of the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) of KDU, the event saw vibrant participation and enthusiastic engagement from students across the university.

Learning about the Cessna 172

The simulator sessions were designed around the Cessna 172, one of the most widely used training aircraft in the world. Students were introduced to aircraft-related general knowledge, gaining a detailed understanding of the control surfaces and their roles in maneuvering the aircraft as well as instruments within the cockpit. Further, they were enlightened about the powerplant and insights into the legally required documents to be carried onboard during flight operations were also shared.

Realistic Flight Maneuver Practice

One of the most engaging aspects of the program was the physical simulator experience, where students actively took the controls and practiced critical flight maneuvers. These included:

• Takeoff and landing
• Medium and steep turns
• Climbing and descending turns
• Stalling

Students were guided through these exercises under expert supervision, allowing them to bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical applications. The program was not just educational; it was also inspiring. The participants approached the sessions with immense enthusiasm, displaying curiosity, discipline, and a shared passion for aviation. The simulator program fostered many skills, like situational awareness and decision-making, that are vital for any aspiring pilot to master.

This three-day event was a remarkable success, reflecting the RAeS KDU Student Chapter's commitment to fostering practical aeronautical knowledge and passion among future professionals. The Flight Simulator Program proved once again that learning through experience is an indispensable part of aviation education.