Aviation training multinational CAE has developed an immersive pilot training app for mixed reality headset, the Apple Vision Pro.
CAE’s Apple Vision Pro app, showcased in October at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas, Nevada, uses spatial computing to bring true-to-life precision to flight deck interactions and will allow pilots to remotely complete training activities that are currently only available in training centres.
“This Apple Vision Pro app developed by CAE will allow pilots to familiarise themselves with the flight deck, practice critical procedures, and develop muscle memory for key functions from anywhere,” said Emmanuel Levitte, CAE’s Chief Technology and Product Officer. “It will allow pilots to engage with realistic flight deck environments to further ensure they are ready for their full-flight simulator sessions and become even better prepared for any situation.”
“The power and unique capabilities of Apple Vision Pro, combined with CAE’s training environment, will give pilots more flexibility and better prepare them for the transition from ground school to the simulator,” added Alexandre Prévost, CAE’s Division President, Business Aviation Training. “With CAE’s Apple Vision Pro app, we are not only providing our customers more convenience, but are also enhancing training efficiency at a time when the aviation industry faces an increased need to train new pilots.”
In ‘Exploration Mode’, a pilot can touch a specific flight deck control and view a description of that control in context. In ‘Guided Mode’, the user is led to learn the various procedures of the aircraft, guiding the pilot to the next action required to learn the sequences. In ‘Flight Deck Interaction Mode’, pilots can use the virtual flight deck to simulate any kind of interaction in a natural way and begin to train their muscle memory. CAE explains that in the real aircraft, for example, the main battery switch needs to be pulled before being flipped and the same can be done in this spatial computing experience.
With the ability to be programmed for any aircraft type, CAE’s training app for Apple Vision Pro is being touted as a great complement to existing CAE commercial pilot training programmes. The app is currently being tested on the Bombardier Global 7500 programme and is scheduled to be rolled out in Spring 2025.
