Japan Airlines (JAL) has become the first airline globally to adopt Airbus’ new A350 Virtual Procedure Trainer (VPT) for pilot training.
The computer-based system provides an immersive environment for practising critical flight procedures and emergency scenarios.
JAL has signed a five-year agreement to use the A350 VPT, with an initial group of 12 pilots set to train on the system.
The airline is also extending its use of Airbus’ Mobile Airbus Training experience (MATe) suite for systems training.
Hiroshi Horikawa, JAL’s Flight Training Vice President, said the new technology would enhance the airline’s flight crew training and safety standards.
“Integrating the A350 VPT into our training curriculum will significantly elevate the quality of our flight crew training and enhance JAL’s commitment to safety,” Horikawa said.
The VPT allows for flexible training schedules and locations, potentially reducing costs and aircraft downtime.
Balinda Zhang, Airbus Head of Commercial Services for Asia-Pacific, said the company would support JAL throughout the integration process.
“Our aim is to deliver a training solution that not only meets but exceeds JAL’s expectations, contributing to the airline’s continued excellence in flight crew training,” Zhang said.
As of August 2024, JAL operates 15 A350-900s and five A350-1000s, with orders for an additional 23 A350-900s and eight A350-1000s.
The agreement highlights Airbus’ position in aviation training technology and JAL’s commitment to adopting advanced training methods.
