British Airways VR trial
August 15, 2019
British Airways customers will be transported to their own 3D cinema in the skies as the airline exclusively trials a new virtual reality headset in what it says is a UK first.
From now until the end of 2019, customers travelling on select flights in First from London Heathrow to New York JFK will be able to enjoy a selection of award-winning films, documentaries and travel programmes in 2D, 3D or 360° formats.
The headsets from VR eyewear specialist SkyLights allow customers to fully immerse themselves in 3D view regardless of the position they are sat in. The experience even works when they are lying fully flat.
British Airways is the first UK airline to trial the technology and has worked with experts to select a range of therapeutic programmes, including guided meditation and sound therapy, specifically designed for customers who have a fear of flying.
“We are always looking at the latest technology to enhance our customers’ experience on the ground and in the air,” commented Sajida Ismail, Head of Inflight Product at British Airways. “Virtual reality has the power to revolutionise in-flight entertainment and we’re really excited to trial these new glasses as they should create a unique and memorable journey for our First customers.”
The AlloSky virtual reality headsets are designed by SkyLights, a former alumnus of British Airways’ parent company IAG’s Hangar 51 start-up accelerator programme.
Earlier in 2019, British Airways trialled the technology at Heathrow Terminal 5, giving customers a glimpse of the Club World cabin through virtual reality.