"Headsets On, Training Starts”: Austrian Airlines Integrates VR into Pilot Training
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Austrian Airlines has completed integration of Virtual Reality training into its Airbus A320 type rating programme, following a development project carried out with Airbus and Lufthansa Aviation Training between late 2022 and the end of 2025.
The airline now uses Meta Quest 3 headsets to bridge theoretical instruction and simulator training during the initial phase of A320 type rating courses. Pilots complete one week of self-study lessons before undertaking three 180‑minute VR sessions conducted in pairs.
The programme involved a 20‑pilot test group primarily from Austrian Airlines, with development focused on operational, technical and regulatory feasibility—an area described by Christoph Kraus, Head of Theoretical Training, as “completely new territory.”
Head of Training Michael Kircher emphasised that VR serves as a complement to existing training rather than a replacement for simulator hours. Current use covers normal operations only, with non‑normal procedures and additional aircraft types planned for future development.
The system is now being introduced at additional Lufthansa Group locations following the initial rollout in Vienna. Project Manager Pia Born said the focus has shifted to “stability, crew satisfaction and continuous development” as VR becomes embedded across the group.
