22 September 2026
Melville Senior High School's aspiring pilots are getting a more realistic taste of life in a cockpit with a new state-of-the-art flight simulator.
Melville Senior High School students are enjoying their new state-of-the-art flight simulator.
The school's new Gforce factory Edge 6D full-motion simulator provides students with a highly realistic flying experience, allowing them to practise manoeuvres and build confidence before taking to the skies.
The simulator features a G1000 glass cockpit instrument panel and includes a range of popular aircraft types, including Cessna, Piper, Beechcraft and Cirrus models.
Specialist Aviation Program Coordinator Graham McGinn said the simulator was an important addition to the school’s long-running program.
"The Specialist Aviation Program is unique because students are taught and trained by commercial pilots and instructors who bring extensive industry experience to the classroom," he said.
"We cater for students with a strong interest in aviation and support pathways into piloting, engineering, space industries and a range of other aviation-related careers, such as airport management and air traffic control.
"The simulator allows students to practise their flying skills in a realistic environment and put their knowledge to practical use on the ground before taking to the skies."
Established more than 40 years ago, the Specialist Aviation Program has approximately 140 students from Years 7 to 12 and provides opportunities for students to develop their aeronautical knowledge while building practical flying skills.
Students also have access to flying lessons through the school's partnership with Jandakot-based flying school, Flight Training Perth.
Year 10 student Jaimie said a fascination with aircraft sparked her interest in aviation from an early age.
"What attracted me to aviation was travelling around lots as a kid and finding planes so interesting," she said.
Year 10 student Jamie, recently completed her first solo flight.
"I wanted to learn more about them and had a dream of one day taking control of an aircraft myself."
Jaimie recently achieved a major milestone by completing her first solo flight.
"Completing my first solo flight was amazing and such a confidence boost going into preparing for my Recreational Pilot's Licence (RPL) test," she said.
"Melville’s aviation program has helped me achieve this because I can apply the concepts we have learnt in class, including understanding aircraft systems, human factors and teamwork."
She said the simulator had played an important role in developing her skills.
"The simulator has helped me build my skills and confidence by allowing me to practise my flight manoeuvres and routines, which makes them easier and quicker when I am actually up in the aircraft flying."
The program has also helped launch students into further aviation opportunities after graduation.
Recent graduates have progressed into commercial aviation pathways, while others have pursued military aviation careers. Two graduates from the Class of 2025 have been accepted into the Australian Defence Force as trainee pilots.
From their first experience in the simulator to their first solo flight, Melville students are developing the skills and confidence to pursue a wide range of aviation careers.
Learn more about Melville Senior High School's partnership with Qantas on our website.