Emirates is claiming a first with the launch of a virtual reality app from the airline in the Oculus store.
The app allows potential passengers to see facilities such as the first-class product, the on-board lounge, the larger cabin and explore the cabin.
Content can be viewed through the Emirates website, the mobile app, and more recently, using an Oculus Rift device.
According to an Emirates spokesman, the carrier has continued to invest in its virtual reality experience that began in 2018 with the launch of its first virtual reality efforts.
“This initiative expands our global reach and our ability to interact with our audience through digital platforms. It is also especially relevant at this time, as many people have not traveled for a while due to the pandemic and are looking for inspiration, researching and rediscovering their flight options. “
The technology was developed in collaboration with Renacen and there are plans to update the content to include the airline’s Premium Economy cabin and its latest A380 interiors.
Guests can also view and select seats using a 3D seat map before registering using any VR headset such as Google Cardboard.
Emirates also plans to allow customers to explore destinations and book and pay for their flight from the Oculus VR app.
Diego Cachero, CEO of Renacen, based in Spain, states that the development “positions us and differentiates us internationally as leaders in 3D and VR development, both for web applications and for heavy applications.”
Operators have tested different virtual and augmented reality applications in recent years with Virgin Atlantic in collaboration with Sita to use VR for crew training, while Air New Zealand launched an RA experience to inspire- if on trips.
British Airways and Qantas have tested the technology for the flight experience.