Virgin Atlantic has launched a new virtual reality app enabling crew to familiarise themselves with the cabins of the carrier’s B787 aircraft from the comfort of the classroom.
The Apple IOS app has been created in partnership with IT provider SITA, and allows crew to “walk into” the aircraft, simulating “the full-size view of the interior cabin, giving crew a feel for their new working environment, including accurate spatial awareness”.
Virgin said that the technology would complement classroom-based training, enabling crew to “walk through and acquaint themselves with the layout of Virgin Atlantic’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft without even visiting the airport or getting onto the plane”.
Virgin and SITA have worked together before, including a project in 2013 to develop Google Glass and Sony Smartwatch technology “enabling Virgin Atlantic concierge staff in the airline’s Upper Class Wing to deliver the industry’s most high tech and personalized customer service”.
Commenting on the news Don Langford, CIO of Virgin Atlantic, said:
“Today innovation is the lifeblood of a modern airline. New technologies such as augmented reality hold out the promise to better manage our airline operations while providing an enriched experience to our increasingly tech-savvy passengers. SITA has long been a partner in exploring the frontiers of technology and this AR application is no exception.”
Virgin will be demonstrating the new augmented reality training app in the AR/VR Zone at the Aviation Festival in London’s Business Design Centre on September 6 and 7.
