Students at The Ohio State University are now taking off into virtual skies flying a B737 Max jet. The life-sized simulator is the Center for Aviation Studies’ latest addition to the Flight Education program’s ground-based fleet.

“Preparing pilots ready to enter industry having a familiarity with the complex cockpit of a jet will greatly enhance their proficiency and preparedness,” said Blake Stringer, center director.

The College of Arts and Sciences and College of Engineering – both of which offer flight-focused aviation majors – jointly funded the simulator’s purchase.