Brussels Airlines Debuts VR Pilot Training

Lufthansa Aviation Training (LAT) has introduced Virtual Reality (VR) as an integral part of A320 type rating, with Brussels Airlines as the first Lufthansa Group airline to implement the solution. From July 2–4, 2025, two crews at Brussels Airlines completed portions of their training using a VR-based tool approved by regulatory authorities, replacing sessions previously done on traditional devices such as Flat Panel Trainers.

This marks the first time that Virtual Reality (VR) is used in pilot training not just as a supplement but as a replacement for sessions on traditional training devices such as the Flat Panel Trainer (FPT) – and without supervision by an instructor. This change also represents a technological turning point: the tailored use of VR technology elevates the conventional "screen-based cockpit" training by a fully immersive, realistic 3D environment with interaction and guidance to a new level.

The implementation of VR training is the result of more than two years of strategic collaboration between Lufthansa Aviation Training (LAT) and Airbus. As part of a joint project with Lufthansa Group airlines, the "Virtual Procedure Trainer" (VPT) software developed by Airbus – one module of the Airbus Digital Flight Training Solutions – has been advanced for operational use and embedded into the training concept.

“With the VPT we are creating a new training ecosystem: more flexible, more efficient, and sustainable. We are very pleased that Brussels Airlines is the first to trust in this innovation – and that we were able to shape a piece of the future of training together,” said Pia Born, Project Manager at LAT.

Following the successful rollout at Brussels Airlines, the next step is the gradual introduction at all 10 A320 operators within the Lufthansa Group across seven training locations. The VPT will be initially used to train normal standard operating procedures. In parallel, the system is continuously being optimized and developed further to support abnormal procedures and additional aircraft types such as the A330 and A350.