The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently launched the industry’s first virtual reality (VR) training platform, RampVR, recently in Bangkok, Thailand.
The platform, introduced at the IATA Ground Handling Conference, will be used for ground operations training.
Training is essential to keep the industry safe and sustainable, the IATA said. VR was chosen for training because it improves motion and engagement while increasing knowledge retention.
“Improving ramp safety and reducing damage to aircraft and ground equipment through better education and training is an industry priority, but training in this extremely active environment can be a challenge,” Frederic Leger, IATA director for airport, passenger, cargo and security products, said. “RampVR allows users to safely immerse themselves in ramp operations and experience a variety of scenarios in different operating conditions.”
The technology was developed after meeting with ground controllers, airlines and airports to determine their training needs. VR eliminates the need for a ramp for training, improving safety and increasing availability.
Two modules, one for aircraft marshalling and one for aircraft turnaround inspections, are available.
Both modules have real-time access to reference materials and offer built-in metrics so users can track performance. They are also compliant with IATA Ground Operations Manual and Airport Handling Manual standards.