Onboard entertainment is one way airlines have attracted customers and differentiated themselves for many years. Overhead screens moved to seat-back displays. Fixed channels became extensive libraries. And WiFi and passengers’ own devices have been incorporated by many airlines. As airlines look ahead, could immersive VR be the next addition?
Introducing VR to aviation
Virtual Reality (VR) has improved significantly in recent years. Initially viewed more as a gaming tool, more applications have emerged as the technology improves and the cost reduces.
The aviation industry has seen application in pilot and cabin crew training and, more recently, for passengers. In fact, British Airways cite that the expansion to passenger use came from realizing its potential during crew use.
There are benefits for both passengers and airlines. Passengers can be much more engaged in entertainment than on a TV screen, helping to ‘escape’ the cabin environment for some time. Perhaps they can visit their destination, or ‘relax’ on the beach instead of their seat!
Airlines will benefit from this customer satisfaction but also have not missed the opportunity to use the closer engagement for marketing and sales purposes too. And economically, if headsets take off and replace current entertainment systems, airlines will reduce weight and save fuel – an ever-important criteria.
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Trials with several airlines
We are already seeing VR on flights, but so far mostly just in limited use. Many airlines have carried out trials to establish both the popularity and technical feasibility of VR. Some have also introduced VR headsets on the ground and in lounges.
German company Inflight VR and American-French company SkyLights are two of the leading technology…