Alaska Airlines invests in VR flight training to enhance pilot preparation

Fabi Riesen, Founder and CEO of Loft Dynamics, highlighted the constraints of traditional simulators and the emerging role of VR as an influential training solution. "Traditional full-motion simulators have long been the gold standard for airline training, providing an essential and proven method for pilot instruction. However, their substantial footprint, high cost, and operational constraints limit scalability and accessibility," Riesen said.

Pasha Saleh, Director of Corporate Development at Alaska Airlines, underscored the significance of the new technology, stating, "Our investment in Loft Dynamics underscores our conviction in this technology, which enables hyper-realistic training of complex scenarios more effectively and more relevantly. Over time, this technology would enable us to bring critical training closer to the pilot base, reducing unnecessary travel and time while delivering industry-leading pilot training."

The collaboration foresees the installation of these state-of-the-art simulators at Alaska bases for enhanced pilot training, pending FAA approval. This initiative is expected to set a new standard for training in the aviation industry.