Airbus, in cooperation with Japan Airlines (JAL) and JAL Engineering (JALEC), has developed a prototype training system that takes advantage of ‘mixed reality’ technology, Microsoft HoloLens and immersive headsets. By using HoloLens and immersive headsets, crew can access aircraft digital data which can be virtually viewed from any angle to run specific aircraft procedures.
This technology means that users can learn from anywhere, without the need of a physical aircraft, via a holographic coach or an interactive, shared 3D virtual system.
Yuji Akasaka, president of JAL Engineering, describes the technology as “a step forward into a new training era”, adding that “the success of this cooperation will set new standards in terms of training for the industry.”
Airbus recently became a member of the Microsoft Mixed Reality Partner Program. As such, Airbus’s expertise in mixed reality is not only recognized but certified by Microsoft, meaning the company can build and exploit mixed reality on behalf of Microsoft.
In 2013 JAL signed a purchase agreement for 31 A350 XWBs (18 A350-900s and 13 A350-1000s), plus options for a further 25 aircraft, with the delivery of the first A350 XWB scheduled for 2019. Airbus plans to offer HoloLens for some selected training scenarios to airlines including JAL for the A350 XWB.
