Examining the impact of incorporating virtual reality into airline pilot training: A mixed methodology study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the potential of Virtual Reality (VR) employment in airline pilot training. Specifically, this study conducted an experiment that introduced VR equipment into the Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) course in the United Kingdom (UK). Increasing pilot throughput in airline pilot training is critical as demands for airline pilots will increase over the next decade. The review of literature includes United States Air Force use of VR in pilot training, VR cognitive efficacy, self-efficacy, and the civil aviation industry’s use of immersion technology. The review of literature indicates positive outcomes in flying modalities and self-efficacy. The study used a mixed methodology analysis to answer the following questions: 1) Can VR increase the average Synthetic Flight Training session scores in an MCC course? 2) Can VR increase scores on the MCC course key competencies of situational awareness, workload management, knowledge and procedures, aircraft management (manual control), and aircraft management (automation)? 3) Can VR increase the score of the MCC course Final Assessment? 4) Does VR increase the quality of training experienced by the students in a typical MCC course? 5) Can VR increase self-efficacy in flying related skills and airline aviation training programs? Findings of the study showed VR did not significantly improve outcomes. VR employment did marginally improve quality of training, specifically in motivation and enjoyment. Implications of the analysis is that VR may improve outcomes if provided to student pilots two weeks to one month prior to the MCC course. Additionally, matching the aircraft operating procedures in the VR software with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that students are required to use in their MCC course Synthetic Flight Training simulator events may improve outcomes.