Aerospace

Alaska Airlines one of first US Airlines to use virtual reality in pilot training

Alaska Airlines is one of the first US Airlines to use virtual reality in pilot training

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The Flight Operations Training Center of Alaska Airlines now uses new technologies. Basic training for a pilot usually consists of classroom instruction, followed by half simulations, full simulations, and finally time in a real aircraft. Now, the first section of textbook training includes an introduction to virtual reality (VR).

The virtual reality goggles were utilised for the first time today by students like Scott Wathey, a newly hired First Officer with Alaska Airlines. Wathey compared it to how you know precisely where the snooze button is on your alarm clock in the morning. “This enables our muscle memory to remember exactly where that switch is,” said.

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Pilots used flat posters that were taped to their walls to study before VR technology was available. The simulator’s lights and levers would require some getting used to. “We won’t need to waste four hours attempting to locate the switches when you begin your first simulator sessions. You can enter on day one and in the first minute and know precisely where things are “said Shawn Thumma, first officer for Alaska Airlines.

The technology has been in Alaska Airlines’ possession for almost a year, and it has been used for six months already. At a time when the airline is expanding its hiring procedure, this has happened. 300 Airbus pilots are currently learning to fly a Boeing 737 while 600 new pilots are being produced annually.

An essential action to assist in staffing airplanes and boost customer capacity. One of the first US airlines to deploy this VR technology is Alaska Airlines. They predict that because of its success, it will soon become the standard.

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Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

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The suspension of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from operating in Europe is finally over, marking a significant turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

After years of scrutiny and stringent safety assessments, the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have officially lifted the ban on PIA. This decision also grants Airblue authorization to operate flights to Europe, further enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.

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PIA’s suspension, initially imposed in June 2020, was a direct consequence of concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These concerns were triggered shortly after a tragic PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives, prompting an investigation into the validity of pilot licenses issued in the country.

Now, after four years of continuous efforts and reforms by the PCAA, EASA has expressed renewed confidence in Pakistan’s aviation regulatory framework. In a statement, EASA highlighted that Pakistan has successfully addressed safety compliance issues, enabling PIA to resume its operations within the European Union.

A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines. “This milestone has been achieved after four years of relentless efforts by the PIA management,” the spokesperson said.

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The lifting of the ban is expected to have a profound impact on PIA’s future. The airline, which employs over 7,000 people, has faced criticism in the past for poor management, financial instability, and regulatory challenges.

However, the restoration of European operations is seen as a vital step toward regaining its competitive edge, improving its financial standing, and restoring its reputation on the global stage.

Pakistan’s government, which has been exploring options to privatize the debt-laden national carrier, is hopeful that this development will attract foreign investment and bolster the country’s aviation industry.

With a renewed focus on compliance and safety, PIA is now poised to rebuild its presence in Europe, offering Pakistani travelers and international passengers more connectivity and improved service.