05/10/2026
Boeing 737 vs Cessna — Which Flight Simulator Should You Pick?
Two simulators, two completely different aircraft, two very different experiences. The Boeing 737 is a full-size commercial airliner cockpit with hundreds of switches and a motion platform that mimics every takeoff and landing. The Cessna is a light single-engine aircraft — calmer, more intuitive, and aimed at people who want to actually feel like a pilot rather than dispatch a 75-tonne jet.
This guide breaks down both options so you can pick without overthinking it.
Quick Verdict
- Pick the Boeing 737 if you want the "captain of a commercial flight" experience — instrument-heavy cockpit, autopilot, ATC procedures, big-jet feel.
- Pick the Cessna if it's your first simulator session, you have kids with you (ages 8–12 with an adult), or you want to focus on stick-and-rudder flying without the procedural overhead.
The Boeing 737 Simulator
The Aviasim Boeing 737 simulator is a full-size cockpit replica on a motion platform. You sit in the captain's seat, fasten the belt, and run a real airline-style checklist: APU start, engine spool-up, taxi clearance, takeoff thrust. The visuals are projected across a wraparound screen and the platform tilts and shakes in response to control inputs and runway turbulence.
What makes it special:
- Full hardware cockpit — yokes, throttles, MCP autopilot panel, FMC navigation computer, overhead electrical panel
- Real flight scenarios: LAX → JFK, Kyiv → Vienna, mountain approaches, low-vis landings
- Instructor-guided, but you get the controls
- Best for aviation enthusiasts, dad-son bonding, pre-PPL students, corporate gifts
What to know:
- Children under 8 not allowed; ages 8–12 must be accompanied by an adult
- Sessions: 60 min from ₴2600 or 120 min from ₴4900
- Plan an hour of cockpit time + 15-20 min briefing
The Cessna Simulator
The Cessna simulator drops you into the cockpit of a light single-engine aircraft — the same plane real-world student pilots learn to fly in. You'll see a basic six-pack instrument panel, a yoke, throttle, and rudder pedals. No autopilot to lean on — this is hands-on flying.
What makes it special:
- Lower learning curve — feel like a pilot in 5 minutes
- Shorter, cheaper introductory experience
- Calmer pace: takeoff, cruise, sightseeing, landing — over scenic terrain
- Great for kids, first-timers, gift recipients who say "I'm not really an aviation person"
What to know:
- Sessions: 30 min from ₴800 or 50 min from ₴1200
- Most accessible price point of the three Aviasim simulators
- Same instructor-led format
Side-by-Side
| Feature | Boeing 737 | Cessna | |---|---|---| | Aircraft type | Commercial airliner | Light single-engine | | Cockpit complexity | High — hundreds of controls | Low — six-pack + yoke + throttle | | Motion platform | Yes | Yes | | Min age | 8 (with adult) | 8 (with adult) | | Session length | 60 / 120 min | 30 / 50 min | | Starting price | ₴2600 | ₴800 | | Best for | Aviation enthusiasts, full-procedure flying | First-timers, kids, casual flyers | | Vibe | "Captain of a flight" | "Sunday pilot over the countryside" |
Who Should Pick Which?
Boeing 737 is right for you if:
- You watch landing videos on YouTube for fun
- You've always wondered what those cockpit switches actually do
- You want a long, immersive session that feels like a real flight
- You're booking a memorable gift for someone who loves aviation
Cessna is right for you if:
- It's your first flight simulator experience anywhere
- You're bringing a child (8+) who wants to "fly a real plane"
- You're on a tighter budget but want the motion-platform feel
- You want to actually fly the aircraft, not run procedures
Still unsure? Both pair well together — many guests start with a Cessna intro session and book a Boeing 737 flight for a special occasion later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the same person fly both in one visit? Yes — many guests book a Cessna 30-min and a Boeing 737 60-min back-to-back. Plan around 2 hours total including briefings. Contact us in advance to coordinate.
Which is harder to fly? The Boeing 737 has more switches and procedures, but autopilot does much of the heavy lifting once airborne. The Cessna is simpler procedurally but demands more constant hands-on input — easier to start, but you can't take your hands off the yoke.
Will I get nauseous on the motion platform? Both simulators use the same gentle motion system. Most guests are fine; if you're prone to motion sickness, ask the instructor to keep maneuvers smooth.
Can I book either as a gift certificate? Yes — purchase at aviasim.com.ua/gift for an open date. Recipient picks the simulator and time when activating.
Try Both at Aviasim Kyiv
Whether you choose the Boeing 737 for the full-procedure airline experience or the Cessna for a hands-on intro to piloting, both run on real motion platforms with instructor guidance. Sessions are by appointment only — book ahead at aviasim.com.ua/order.
📍 Herzen Street 35, Kyiv — Mon–Sat 10:00–22:00 📞 +380 50 737 0800 🎫 Book your session