Augmented reality (AR) technology is the next step in maximizing passenger comfort and safety while flying. Unlike VR, which creates completely artificial worlds, AR utilizes smartphone apps and your phone’s camera to overlay digitally rendered, 3D objects over the real world. Airlines have recently been using this new technology to their advantage, implementing AR into their cabins to enhance their passengers’ comfort and in-flight entertainment immersion.
How Has AR Technology Been Integrated Into Aviation?
Proponents of augmented reality technology and developers believe it has the potential to enhance all types of training, including safety training for cabin crew and other aviation professionals. Thoughtfully developed AR training resources may be able to provide immersive and realistic emergency scenarios that allow crew members to train without anyone being put into actual danger. These simulations enable them to practice emergency procedures, familiarize themselves with different aircraft configurations and enhance their decision-making skills in a controlled environment.
Augmented reality could also be leveraged to enhance the speed and efficiency with which aviation mechanics repair planes or perform safety checks. Technicians could gain hand-free access to manuals, schematics and diagnostic information through AR devices that overlay digital instructions onto physical aircraft components. A well-designed AR system could allow for streamlined troubleshooting and repairs, reducing delays and wait times for passengers.
There are already examples of augmented reality being used in cockpits, especially as a training tool to assist pilots with aircraft familiarization. While virtual reality is still more common for pilot training, we may see more aggressive use of augmented reality during flights. Pilots can potentially use AR displays to overlay navigation information, weather data and terrain awareness onto their line of sight, which could be especially useful when operating in challenging weather conditions or unfamiliar airports.
While augmented reality is still in its infancy, there are already a variety of examples of augmented reality being leveraged to enhance the speed and accuracy of complex inspections, maintenance and safety training.
Traveling Is Easier, Safer and More Entertaining With AR
Of all the smart technology currently on the market, AR glasses are on the slow end of the adoption scale. This may be because there just aren’t enough practical applications to make up for having to wear a bulky set of awkward-looking glasses in public. However, there are some applications that use a smartphone camera to project information on the screen that are already being used for travel, like providing directions and navigation instructions.
One potential feature that could make AR more attractive to passengers would be detailed information about the flight, destination and points of interest. For example, an application that allows a passenger to point their phone at the cabin window to access real-time information, including geographical landmarks, weather conditions and even details about the aircraft itself, could be useful for flyers.
AR technology could also potentially enable virtual shopping experiences within the cabin. Passengers could use AR-enabled devices to explore duty-free catalogs, virtually try on products and make purchases directly from their seats.
What Airlines Are Using AR Technology for Their In-Flight Entertainment?
American Airlines has been exploring using AR to enable passengers to scan their seat number with their phone to gain access to the aircraft’s features, amenities and in-flight entertainment options.
Qatar Airways has also incorporated AR technology into its in-flight entertainment, allowing passengers to use their smartphones to scan their Oryx magazine and unlock 360-degree cabin views and destination guides. Emirates has gone even further with its AR integration, introducing “SkyLights” AR headsets to give passengers a virtual 3D cinematic experience to immerse themselves in while flying.
What Is the Future of AR Technology in Aircrafts?
Virtual Assistance and Customer Service: AR could be used to provide virtual assistance and customer service. Passengers could use AR interfaces for on-demand information, assistance with in-flight services or even to communicate with the cabin crew.
Health and Safety Applications: AR could play a crucial role in health and safety protocols, providing passengers with safety instructions in a more interactive and engaging manner as well as monitoring passengers’ well-being throughout the trip.
Trust Experts Who Have Been Continually Innovating Aircraft’s IFE Technology for Over 40 Years
While early practical AR applications are predominantly utilized for crew and pilot training, we may not be too far off from the day you can walk onto any flight and expect it to have AR entertainment. At Rosen Aviation, we’ll ensure your aircraft is leading the pack in design and innovation. Our in-flight entertainment technology is designed to enhance your passengers’ flying experience with sophistication and high-definition interfaces.
Our team will design and produce technology that will ensure your flyers can stay safe, comfortable and entertained throughout their entire flight. Call us at 1-888-668-4955 or send us a message to learn more about our cutting-edge and customizable cabin entertainment solutions.