Initially, the VR system can simulate the cockpit of the A320 family, with further aircraft types such as the A330 and A350 to follow. Depending on future hardware development, the technology is expected to be used flexibly across different locations. In addition to VR equipment, the software can also be accessed via an iPad app.

The first two VR set-ups have been successfully installed at LAT training centers in Frankfurt and Vienna. During the current test phase, LAT is evaluating user acceptance, as well as the potential of the software and hardware, to determine the best way to integrate the VR solution into the Lufthansa Group’s training environment. LAT, Lufthansa Group, and Airbus continue to collaborate closely on further software development, with the goal of integrating the VPT into the type rating courses for all pilots of supported aircraft types.

A major milestone has now been achieved: for the first time, virtual reality is being used as an integral part of an A320 type rating—without an instructor and without traditional training devices such as the Flat Panel Trainer. Brussels Airlines, as the launch customer within the Lufthansa Group, took the lead in early July when two flight crews successfully completed immersive, realistic, and efficient VR-based procedure training.

This success marks the result of more than two years of close collaboration between LAT and Airbus. At its core is the VPT, part of the Airbus Digital Flight Training Solutions, which is now being deployed in operational training for the first time. With Brussels Airlines as the launch customer, the rollout across all A320 operators in the Lufthansa Group has begun. Further developments are already underway for long-haul aircraft types such as the A330 and A350, along with an adapted version of the product for the external training market.

Virtual Reality is setting new standards in pilot training—more flexible, sustainable, scalable, and closer to the real cockpit experience than ever before.