Flying the Bombardier Global Express Simulator!!!
Oct 25, 2024

Last weekend I got to “pilot” a Bombardier Global Express via a CAE full flight simulator. Club member Richard invited Malik, Phil, and me to experience this amazing simulator on a few virtual flights.

The simulator was incredible. The instruments, the controls, the seating–everything felt like stepping into a real cockpit. The simulator is equipped with all the instruments we would find in a real aircraft. We could hear the familiar sounds of the engines starting up and even feel the bump of the taxiway lights beneath the non-existent wheels. After a quick pre-flight checklist, we were ready for takeoff.

First up was Malik as pilot and Phil as first officer, with me in the jump seat. Richard manned the computer, hit a few buttons and boom! We couldn’t see anything! A thick fog blanketed the whole screen, giving Malik the challenge of taxiing through a complicated and busy airport in these IMC conditions. The simulator responded to Malik’s every touch on the controls. When he moved the tiller, we felt the whole plane jerk to the side. We took off in the fog, flew over the clouds, and came back to shoot a full IFR approach. It was a tough approach, but he masterfully managed a terrific landing.

Next, we took off from Las Vegas Airport with Phil as pilot and me as first officer, and then we return to shoot an instrument approach. That’s when we heard it: “Engine failure”! For added challenge, Richard had simulated a left engine failure so Phil could practice landing with just one engine. Phil could really feel the difference in control and response of the simulator. I was fascinated to see Phil switch from casual flying to serious problem-solving mode. He calmly assessed the situation and enacted emergency procedures, flipping switches and checking instruments.

With one engine down, we needed to make some swift decisions. Phil skillfully managed the aircraft, maintaining altitude and adjusting our heading toward the nearest airport. The tension in the cockpit was palpable, yet exhilarating. It felt like a real-life aviation drama. We approached our destination, working together to execute a safe landing (though to be honest, I’m not sure how much I helped). Cheers erupted in the cockpit as we touched down safely.

Now it was my turn to take off from Burbank Airport and land in Las Vegas. I had a beautiful landing (a lot easier with clear skies and without engine failure, of course). Since I’d already seen the others at the controls, I was prepared for the super-sensitive tiller of the Bombardier. I managed to land in time for Malik and Phil to make their games in Las Vegas.

It was a terrific experience—fun and unforgettable—made possible by the Fort Worth Flying Club. I never would have had this chance without the club. Special shout-out to Richard for making this possible and coaching us through the whole experience.

It’s a perfect example of why I love being a member of FWFC: good times with good people, enjoying an amazing adventure in the (simulated) sky.

Gaetano Rotolo
Private Pilot