Brussels Airlines pilots begin virtual reality training
Brussels Airlines has begun using virtual reality to train its pilots. The technology should make parts of the training more realistic, the airline says.
Virtual reality, which also includes VR glasses, is used in “type rating training”. That is the training to fly a specific aircraft – in this case, the Airbus A320 – that follows the pilots’ basic training.
“We use virtual reality in the phase before the pilot goes into the flight simulator,” said Nico Cardone, spokesperson for Brussels Airlines. “That phase was very theoretical until now, but thanks to VR it becomes more life-like.”
This is the phase where pilots learn, for example, where switches are located in the cockpit.
“VR offers a significantly more realistic and intense training experience,” said Captain Gauthier Lesceu, Chief Theoretical Knowledge Instructor at Brussels Airlines.
Initial phase
“Our pilots can autodidactically practise procedures early and repeatedly, build muscle memory and gain situational confidence – an ideal preparation for the simulator phase with increased effectiveness and reduced infrastructure requirements.”
The VR programme was used for the first time in early July. It is being used in an initial phase only for A320 training and only to train standard operating procedures.
"Our pilots can practise procedures early and repeatedly, build muscle memory and gain situational confidence"
Brussels Airlines is the first airline within the Lufthansa group to use the software. It was developed by aviation training company Lufthansa Aviation Training and manufacturer Airbus.
The next step is the gradual introduction at all 10 A320 operators in the group. In parallel, the system is being developed to support abnormal procedures and additional aircraft types such as the A330 and A350.
© PHOTO BRUSSELS AIRLINES
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