CAE has announced the development of a new Apple Vision Pro app that allows pilots to complete some aspects of training remotely, from anywhere in the world and at any time.
CAE’s new technology will enable pilots to interact with an aircraft flightdeck in an immersive training app, completing activities that are currently only available in training centers.
On October 22, 2024, CAE unveiled its Apple Vision Pro app at 2024 NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas and predicted that the technology could be a “game-changer” for pilot training.
“This Apple Vision Pro app developed by CAE will allow pilots to familiarize themselves with the flight deck, practice critical procedures, and develop muscle memory for key functions from anywhere,” said Emmanuel Levitte, CAE’s Chief Technology and Product Officer. “It will allow pilots to engage with realistic flight deck environments to further ensure they are ready for their full-flight simulator sessions and become even better prepared for any situation.”
The app is currently being tested on the Bombardier Global 7500 program and is scheduled to be rolled out in Spring 2025.
“The power and unique capabilities of Apple Vision Pro, combined with CAE’s training environment, will give pilots more flexibility and better prepare them for the transition from ground school to the simulator,” said Alexandre Prévost, CAE’s Division President, Business Aviation Training. “With CAE’s Apple Vision Pro app, we are not only providing our customers more convenience but are also enhancing training efficiency at a time when the aviation industry faces an increased need to train new pilots.”
During the app’s ‘Flight Deck Interaction Mode’, pilots can use the virtual flight deck to simulate any kind of interaction in a natural way and begin to train their muscle memory.
In ‘Guided Mode’, the user is led to learn the various procedures of the aircraft, guiding the pilot to the next action required to learn the sequences.
While in ‘Exploration Mode’, a pilot can touch a specific control and view a description of that control in context.
First launched in February 2024, Apple Vision Pro “blends digital content with the physical world to deliver powerful spatial experiences that transform the way people work, collaborate, connect, relive memories, enjoy entertainment, and much more”.