Fighter Pilot X offers Greece’s most immersive fighter jet simulation experience, bringing the thrill of combat aviation to the public. Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment paired with the most advanced simulation software on the market, Fighter Pilot X is run by Manolis Lourakis, an ex-fighter pilot of the Hellenic Air Force with over 1,500 flight hours in fighter jets. Manolis’s expertise in real-world aviation, combined with his deep knowledge of flight simulation dating back to the early Jane’s flight sim games, ensures a lifelike experience that’s accessible even to those who have never flown before.
The idea for Fighter Pilot X was born in 2022, inspired by Manolis’s experience with Digital Combat Simulator (DCS) and VR technology. In his private cockpit setup, he relived the adrenaline rush of combat missions and recognized the potential to offer this experience to the public. Fighter Pilot X was founded to share his expertise, allowing anyone—even those with no prior flight experience—to pilot a modern fighter jet in VR.
Fighter Pilot X also offers the unique opportunity to witness lifelike combat training missions from the back seat of an F-15 or F-16, providing an unforgettable experience in both Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground scenarios.
At Fighter Pilot X, all you need is the desire to feel like a real fighter pilot—we’ll take care of the rest. You’ll experience realistic procedures, lifelike communications, haptic feedback, and stunning visuals in Virtual Reality, making every flight an unforgettable adventure. To elevate the experience further, we offer the chance to wear a real pilot’s suit, complete with your personalized call-sign name-tag and authentic military aviation patches. It doesn’t get more real than this.
Choose your Experience
CHOOSE YOUR FLIGHT
Solo, in the backseat or like a cadet in the front seat, we have it all
SOLO Flight (30 minutes)
Take control of an F-16, F-18 or F-15 and feel the rush of flying like a real fighter pilot
Learn the basics of flying a fighter jet from taxi to landing, along with basic maneuvers that help you master the handling of the airplane. Feel the rush of fast jets, either by flying the mighty Fighting Falcon, or the formidable F-15 Strike Eagle, or even the navy’s best, F/A-18 Hornet. Either taking off from a land base or the Carrier, we will show you how do it from the very start. After a 10-minute briefing you are good to go for your 30-minute flight.
*You control the jet from the very start*
Flight Overview: Taxi from Airport/Carrier-Takeοff/Launch-Medium Level Navigation/-Basic Handling-Aerobatics-Max Performance maneuvers-Return to home base-Landing.
In this ride we focus on demonstrating the combat aspect of an Air-to-Air or an Air-to-Ground mission. You get to sit on the back seat of an F-16 (for Air-to-Air) or an F-15 (for Air-to-Ground) and watch in a highly immersive and realistic environment how pilots are trained for combat nowadays. The 15-minute briefing will cover the major phases of the mission, and the 45-minute flight will let you witness aerial fight or ground attack with the bonus of Air-to-Air Refueling event(AAR).
*Your Instructor in the front will control the jet, but you can fly form the back if you like*
Flight Overview: Taxi and Takeoff from Airport-Low Level Navigation-Max Performance Climb-AAR-Combat Descend for the Target Area/Transit to Aerial Fight Zone – Airport Attack/Dogfight-Return to Base-Landing Practice-Landing
This flight has it all. Wear your flight suit, attach your custom name tag to your chest, pick the patches of your liking to decorate your suit and you are ready for the most exhilarating experience of your life. Enjoy a military style 15-minute briefing and sit in the front seat of the F-15 Strike Eagle. If you want, you can follow the guidance of your instructor in the back and control the jet from the very start. Or, let the Instructor do everything from the back seat while you watch the show from the “first row”. After the 60-minute flight we will review your flight in the Debriefing (15-minute) and you will have the opportunity to take pictures or videos holding a real pilot’s helmet from our collection. The name tag is yours to keep along with a Fighter Pilot X patch as a memorabilia of your flight. We will send you the recording of your flight via WeTransfer, in two days time from your flight.
*You control the jet from the very start OR just enjoy the view OR both*
Flight Overview: Taxi-Takeοff- Medium Level Navigation-Basic Handling-Aerobatics-Max Performance maneuvers-Low Level Navigation-Ingress to Target Area-Ground Attack-Aerial Refueling-Transit to Aerial Fight Zone-Beyond Visual Range fight (1 vs 2)-Dogfight (1 vs 1)-Return to Base-Land.
Learn the basics of flying a fighter jet from taxi to landing, along with basic maneuvers that help you master the handling of the airplane. Feel the rush of fast jets, either by flying the mighty Fighting Falcon, or the formidable F-15 Strike Eagle, or even the navy’s best, F/A-18 Hornet. Either taking off from a land base or the Carrier, we will show you how do it from the very start. After a 10-minute briefing you are good to go for your 30-minute flight.
*You control the jet from the very start*
Flight Overview: Taxi from Airport/Carrier-Takeοff/Launch-Medium Level Navigation/-Basic Handling-Aerobatics-Max Performance maneuvers-Return to home base-Landing.
FLIGHTS with INSTRUCTOR
VIPEXPERIENCE
In this ride we focus on demonstrating the combat aspect of an Air-to-Air or an Air-to-Ground mission. You get to sit on the back seat of an F-16 (for Air-to-Air) or an F-15 (for Air-to-Ground) and watch in a highly immersive and realistic environment how pilots are trained for combat nowadays. The 15-minute briefing will cover the major phases of the mission, and the 45-minute flight will let you witness aerial fight or ground attack with the bonus of Air-to-Air Refueling event(AAR).
*Your Instructor in the front will control the jet, but you can fly form the back if you like*
Flight Overview: Taxi and Takeoff from Airport-Low Level Navigation-Max Performance Climb-AAR-Combat Descend for the Target Area/Transit to Aerial Fight Zone – Airport Attack/Dogfight-Return to Base-Landing Practice-Landing
CADET FLIGHT with EXTRAS
DELUXE EXPERIENCE
This flight has it all. Wear your flight suit, attach your custom name tag to your chest, pick the patches of your liking to decorate your suit and you are ready for the most exhilarating experience of your life. Enjoy a military style 15-minute briefing and sit in the front seat of the F-15 Strike Eagle. If you want, you can follow the guidance of your instructor in the back and control the jet from the very start. Or, let the Instructor do everything from the back seat while you watch the show from the “first row”. After the 60-minute flight we will review your flight in the Debriefing (15-minute) and you will have the opportunity to take pictures or videos holding a real pilot’s helmet from our collection. The name tag is yours to keep along with a Fighter Pilot X patch as a memorabilia of your flight. We will send you the recording of your flight via WeTransfer, in two days time from your flight.
*You control the jet from the very start OR just enjoy the view OR both*
Flight Overview: Taxi-Takeοff- Medium Level Navigation-Basic Handling-Aerobatics-Max Performance maneuvers-Low Level Navigation-Ingress to Target Area-Ground Attack-Aerial Refueling-Transit to Aerial Fight Zone-Beyond Visual Range fight (1 vs 2)-Dogfight (1 vs 1)-Return to Base-Land.
Flight Logbook – Be a part of the community
FLIGHT LOGBOOK
We write down in our shared Log Book a summary of your flight so you will be able to choose what to do next time your visit us for a flight. Move on from where you left it or try again things you want to be great at. Take ideas from other people’s flights or create your own training plan for becoming a better fighter pilot. Ask for our reduced prices on bundle flights and our educational program.
We write down in our shared Log Book a summary of your flight so you will be able to choose what to do next time your visit us for a flight. Move on from where you left it or try again things you want to be great at. Take ideas from other people’s flights or create your own training plan for becoming a better fighter pilot. Ask for our reduced prices on bundle flights and our educational program.
Enhance your Experience
Photo shoot
Wear yout flight suits and pose for your social media phtos and videos. For sizes of minimum height of 150 cm and maximum chest size of 130 cm.
Price : 17 Euros
Custom name tag
Choose your call sign during booking. (Maximum of 10 Upper case Latin only characters). We will have your name tag ready when you arrive.
Price : 15 Euros
Video Recording
A digital file containing the view from your cockpit along with a picture-in-picture frame of you, flying in VR, for the entire flight.
Price : 25 Euros
Remember to choose your Add-On during booking
Add-On Combo
Everything at a reduced price. Photo shoot with flight suit and Helmet, Custom name Tag, Video recording and Fighter Pilot X patch.
Price : 49 Euros
Gift card
Order your Fighter Pilot X gift card today and we’ll make sure it’s delivered to the recipient of your choice, either by post or email. Offer your loved ones an unforgettable experience by gifting one or more flights of their choice.
Simply fill in the details, select the flight experience you’d like to offer, add your personalized message, and submit the order form. Whether you choose a physical or virtual card, this unique gift will be truly appreciated.
Physical Gift Card: Receive a beautifully printed card, which you can either collect from our premises or have mailed. Choose to have it delivered to yourself (so you can give it in person) or sent directly to the recipient.
Virtual Gift Card: We’ll send a digital version via email, complete with a personalized message and instructions for redeeming the experience.
Both options come at no extra cost—you pay only for the flight experience you wish to gift.
Feel free to contact +30 6983509989 for any questions about the gift card.
Order your Fighter Pilot X gift card today and we’ll make sure it’s delivered to the recipient of your choice, either by post or email. Offer your loved ones an unforgettable experience by gifting one or more flights of their choice. Simply fill in the details, select the flight experience you’d like to offer, add your personalized message, and submit the order form. Whether you choose a physical or virtual card, this unique gift will be truly appreciated. Physical Gift Card: Receive a beautifully printed card, which you can either collect from our premises or have mailed. Choose to have it delivered to yourself (so you can give it in person) or sent directly to the recipient.
Virtual Gift Card: We’ll send a digital version via email, complete with a personalized message and instructions for redeeming the experience. Both options come at no extra cost—you pay only for the flight experience you wish to gift. Feel free to contact +30 6983509989 for any questions about the gift card.
Fighter Pilot X is a publicly-accessible Virtual Reality (VR) Simulator in Greece, focused on fighter jet planes. The available jets are F-16 (one seat and two seat version), F-15SE (two-seater) and the single seat F/A-18.
Where is Fighter Pilot X located?
Fighter Pilot X is in the beautiful city of Chania, near Dikastiria Square, adjacent to Kumba Hostel. Our full address is : Iroon Polytechniou 35, 73132, Chania, Crete, Greece. You can find us on Google Maps here:
What are the operating hours of Fighter Pilot X?
Our operation hours for flight sessions are as follows: Monday-Friday : 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM . Saturday, Sunday : 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM We strongly suggest booking at least 24 hours in advance to secure your preferred slot.
Do you accept walk-in customers?
We only accept customers that have booked their flight in advance. To ensure smooth operations, we kindly request all customers to make their bookings for their next flight simulator session, 24 hours prior. However, feel free to WhatsApp +30 6983509989 if you have any last-minute requests. We will do our best to accommodate your requests.
Do you organize party events?
Unfortunately, no. Space and legal restrictions forbit the presence of more than 4 people in each session.
I don’t have any flying experience. Can I still book a flight?
Yes, you can. A former Hellenic Air Force fighter pilot will guide you through each experience giving you simple and understandable directions on how to conduct each flight, at your own pace.
Flight Simulators:
How realistic are the flights in Fighter Pilot X?
The software we use is designed for high fidelity flight models on the available jets with near perfect replication of the cockpits, visuals and flight characteristics. The VR use makes the experience amazingly immersive, that’s why such combination (special version of the software along with VR use) is used for Air Forces around the world for real fighter pilots training.
I don’t have any flying experience. Can I still book a flight?
Yes, you can. A former Hellenic Air Force fighter pilot will guide you through each experience giving you simple and understandable directions on how to conduct each flight, at your own pace.
I wear glasses. Can I still use the VR headset?
Yes, you can. Our state-of-the-art VR headset allows the use of light frame glasses. Contact lenses are more preferable.
Can my friend/spouse sit next to me in the flight simulator?
Yes, for the SOLO and DELUXE flights, your friend/parent/spouse/child can sit next to you and watch what you see in your VR headset, in a big 2D screen. For the rest of the flights, no other person is allowed to the simulator apart the pilot and Instructor.
Can my friend/spouse take photos and video of me during the session?
Yes, your friend/parent/spouse/child can photograph or video-record the experience. If you like you can rent a flight suit and take pictures of yourself holding a real flight helmet (maximum chest size for flight suit rental is 130cm/51 inches. Minimum height is 150cm).
Is there a dress code for the flight simulator?
Feel free to dress comfortable ensuring ease of movement. We suggest avoiding excessively loose attire that could potentially interfere with the flight controls or simulator components. We also recommend wearing closed-toe footwear. For the customers that choose to rent a flight suit (for chest size up to 130cm/51 inches and minimum height of 150cm), we recommend wearing light clothes so they can put the flight suit on top.
Booking and Pricing:
How do I book a flight in Fighter Pilot X?
You can book through this website. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time slot. The later you can book is 24 hours before your flight. However, do call us (WhatsApp +30 6983509989 ) if you have any last-minute requests. We will do our best to accommodate your requests..
How much does a fighter pilot experience costs?
Pricing for our fighter pilot experiences varies depending on the flight you book. Our flight sessions start at €54 for a 40 minutes experience (10 minutes briefing, 30 minutes flight).
How can I amend my booking?
The only way to change your reservation is by calling us at +3069835099 (mobile/WhatsApp).
Health and Safety/Restrictions and Requirements:
Is there any age requirements to participate in a flight simulator experience?
For liability reasons participants must be over 18 so they can sign the liability agreement upon entering the premises. Persons between 12 and 18 years old, must be accompanied by parent or legal guardian for the whole duration of the experience. Children under 12 years old cannot participate in any VR experience.
Are there any physical restrictions or health concerns for using the flight simulator?
Participants should be taller than 150cm so to enjoy the full piloting experience. They must also be in good health and free from any medical conditions that may be aggravated by the sensory inputs of the simulator. Pregnant women and individuals with heart conditions, back or neck problems should consult with their healthcare provider before participating.
Guidance and Information:
Is there a briefing or instruction provided before each flight experience?
Depending on the flight you book there will be a flight briefing covering basics of flight, controls, equipment use and safety procedures. This briefing can be tailored to your prior experience and knowledge but in cannot extend past the defined duration.
Can I choose what to do on each flight?
Apart from the VIP flights, yes you can with some restrictions. Since we try to replicate an actual military training flight, there are certain phases which need to be done anyway. On the other hand, there are available options for you to choose from during the briefing (prior to the flight).
Will I be able to ask questions about fighter jets, weapons, tactics and military aviation in general?
Of course you are, provided that the questions doesn’t touch sensitive classified information, in which case you will be kindly denied an answer.
Meet your Instructor
Manolis Lourakis (callsign Rusty) is a retired Major of the Hellenic Air Force, with a lifelong passion for flying fighter jets. Born in Chania, Greece, in 1971, Manolis realized his dream in 1990 when he was admitted to the prestigious Hellenic Air Force Academy (Sholi Ikaron) in Athens.
After four years of rigorous academic and flight training, he earned his wings and began his military career as a Second Lieutenant in the 345 Bomb Squadron at 115 Combat Wing, Suda Bay, Crete. During his time with the squadron, flying the formidable A-7H, Manolis accumulated over 750 flight hours, primarily on Air-to-Ground missions.
In 2002, after the decommissioning of the A-7H, Manolis trained at the 162nd International Training Wing in Tucson, Arizona, becoming combat-ready in the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Upon returning to Greece in 2003, he served in the 347 Squadron at 111 Combat Wing, Volos, and later at 343 Squadron at 115 Combat Wing, Suda Bay. With the Falcon, he logged another 760 hours, focusing on SEAD missions and Air-to-Air operations.
Manolis is a certified NATO Academic Instructor, Accident Investigator, and Instructor Pilot for both the A-7 and F-16 aircraft. His diverse qualifications and extensive experience as an instructor ensure the highest standards of training and safety in every simulation.
After retiring from the Air Force in 2010, Manolis pursued further education, earning a bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering and a master’s degree from the Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU) in Chania. In 2020, he joined the Doctorate program at HMU, where he researches the use of AGILE methodologies in higher education. His work focuses on managing teams of students working on projects using the SCRUM framework. Manolis is also a certified SCRUM Master with Scrum Inc.
Manolis is married to Evie and is a proud father of two.
Find us: Iroon Polytechniou 35, Chania
Enter the parking lot from the left side of the butcher shop. Go past the parked cars, down the stairs to the right.
For queries or questions feel free to contact us at: +306983509989 (mobile/WhatsApp/Viber)
