PAL Elevates Crew Training with Virtual Reality Tech

Reaching new heights, four-star carrier and transportation services provider Philippine Airlines (PAL) installed virtual reality (VR) technology for maximum efficiency in cabin crew training.

The VR tech program was brought about by PAL in partnership with start-up enterprise Veer Immersive Technologies, Inc., and in close communications with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

Aimed to orient and test incoming crew members, the refined training module involves aircraft familiarization and cabin door operations for Airbus A320, as well as aircraft A321.

As part of a digital transformation program, the VR training will be utilized in all of the flag carrier’s training sessions, beginning in the month of May 2018. For future trainee batches, a module for Bombardier Q400 NG turboprop will soon follow.

According to PAL President and COO Dr. Jaime J. Bautista, “While the use of technology in pilot training has evolved tremendously over the past decades, cabin crew training has largely remained unchanged over the years. We are excited to pioneer a truly practical application of VR technology. Our solution not only provides a more efficient training process, but more importantly, it enhances the learning experience of our crew members by making it more immersive, interactive, and fun.”

The innovative VR program generates in-flight situation simulations, permitting a realistic but secure environment for trainees to develop and practice responses for real-world cabin crew challenges. The program can be performed in remote locations with illimitable usage, allowing for minimized logistic requirements and efficient, self-paced training.

PAL is the one and only airline in the country to employ VR technology in training. (Adapted by Lara Angeli Eviota)

Source: Inquirer