How Virtual Reality Is Impacting the Aerospace Industry

In 1929, Edward Link invented the “Link Trainer,” which was the first flight simulator and used to train American pilots in World War II. His invention helped saved lives, and provided a safer way for the military to train combat pilots. Advancements in his technology continued over the decades, and video game companies started developing virtual reality headsets back in the 1990s.

Today, the technology has improved so much that it is being used to train military personnel, NASA astronauts, civilian pilots and maintenance technicians.

Check out four ways virtual reality is having a direct impact on the aerospace industry.

1. Prepares Pilots

Virtual reality headsets are now used to help train pilots, particularly in emergency situations. This type of training helps prepare them for life and death situations, as well as how to maneuver a plane that is going to crash, without having to risk their safety.

2. Improves Maintenance

TAE Aerospace designed a headset that connects aviation technicians with product professionals from a distance. The headset allows an engineering expert to view exactly what the technician is seeing in real time, which eliminates guesswork. The end result?Maintenance is better and planes are safer.

3. Enhances Training

Many companies are now using Microsoft’s HoloLen headset to remotely train mechanics, technicians and crewmembers. This technology, which is quickly replacing traditional printed training manuals, gives employees the opportunity to learn by doing, as opposed to simply reading.

Virtual reality also allows employers to better assess training progress. They can now see if their employees are able to perform their job functions through simulation, instead of written tests.

4. Improves Safety

Using virtual reality is a cost-effective way to train staff on how to better respond to emergencies. Simulations let employees practice how to respond to a variety of potentially real-life disasters, which is cheaper than emergency drills. This also helps prepare employees for different types of emergency scenarios in a more time efficient manner.

Virtual reality is paving the way for the future of the aerospace industry. From better training to improved safety, it’s an exciting time to be working in this space, since the growth potential is huge. If you’re interested in exploring ways to recruit top talent for VR or other IT positions, contact The Patriot Group today.