A GROUP of pupils from Westville House School in Ilkley had a peek behind the scenes of Jet2.com when they visited Leeds Bradford Airport.

They were able to gain a detailed understanding into how Jet2's first ever UK base operates as they enter the busy summer season.

Accompanied by Paul Dobson, Director of Flight Operations at Jet2.com the group of pupils and teachers spent the day taking in the entire operation from check-in right through to the flight deck on one of the new aircraft.

First they visited check-in Hall B, the dedicated Jet2.com check-in area, where they spoke to staff, saw customers checking-in for their holidays, and were bowled over by the famous red branding.

From there they donned high-visibility vests and went through airside security to visit the Air Traffic Control Tower. The staff in the tower talked about their roles, and then brought it all to life by taking the pupils through a real-life departure.

After lunch, the group visited the maintenance hangar, where they were able to see Jet2's dedicated team of engineers working on two aircraft simultaneously. The engineering team could not have been more welcoming and the class were shown an aircraft which had its number one engine cowling open, and were able to go under the wing for an in-depth look at the landing gear.

Finally – one of the many highlights of the day – the pupils then climbed on board one of our brand new Boeing 737-800 aircraft where they looked around the cabin and flight deck. Paul Dobson then gave everyone the chance to sit in the flight deck and have their very first flying lesson, learning about the layout and systems on the flight deck.

A spokesperson for Jet2.com said: "It was a hugely successful day and we thank all our team for making it happen, as well as the pupils and teachers from Westville House School for coming along and taking such an interest in our busy operation."

Trip organiser from Westville House School, Mrs Emma Sutcliffe, Form One teacher, said: “We are so fortunate to be able to access the internal workings of the airport and for the children to experience what goes on behind the scenes. It has certainly been a day to remember.”