AN ICONIC Glasgow museum is celebrating one year since its state-of-the-art flight simulator was opened.

The Newton Flight Academy (NFA), the only one of its kind in the UK, opened at the Glasgow Science Centre in March 2022 and in the last 12 months, it has achieved some considerable feats.

The three simulators in the academy have flown 7.4 times around the planet and clocked up 1619 hours of teaching since its opening.

The thrilling experience involves embarking on a realistic wrap-around 180-degree view of the landscape generated from real map data, using full instruction and background to the science of flight from the flight crew.

As well as being enjoyable, the NFA is designed to teach students about aviation - and inspire future engineers and scientists to develop their own ideas and technologies that can shape the future of aircraft.

Stephen Breslin, chief executive officer of Glasgow Science Centre, said: “We’re immensely proud of the success of the Newton Flight Academy in its inaugural year.

"Twelve months on, we celebrate the achievements of the Newton Flight Academy - we have welcomed thousands of potential pilots and engineers through the door and the feedback from schools and students has been overwhelmingly positive.

"We’re delighted to have this world-class experience available at Glasgow Science Centre.”

Alysia Tofflemire, Newton Room's executive director, added: "We are delighted to mark the first anniversary of the Newton Flight Academy at the Glasgow Science Centre, which has had tremendous success in promoting STEM education and aerospace.

"The first NFA in Scotland, established together with our esteemed partners, reflects our commitment to inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators around the world.

"We are proud to continue to work with the Glasgow Science Centre towards providing a stimulating and interactive learning environment, and we look forward to seeing the impact that the NFA will have on the future of STEM education and careers in the region."