British Airways trials inflight virtual reality

British Airways is trialling a new virtual reality headset in some of its First cabins. Passengers on select flights this year will have access to “their own 3D cinema in the skies” in what the airline claims as a UK first. Films, documentaries and travel shows will be available via the technology on some Heathrow … Continue reading British Airways trials inflight virtual reality

British Airways is trialling a new virtual reality headset in some of its First cabins.

Passengers on select flights this year will have access to “their own 3D cinema in the skies” in what the airline claims as a UK first.

Films, documentaries and travel shows will be available via the technology on some Heathrow to New York JFK flights – in 2D, 3D or 360° formats.

The AlloSky headsets are provided by VR eyewear firm SkyLights and work even when the user is lying fully flat.

British Airways says it has worked with experts to select a range of therapeutic programmes, including guided meditation and sound therapy designed for customers who have a fear of flying.

Sajida Ismail, head of inflight product at BA, said: “We are always looking at the latest technology to enhance our customers’ experience on the ground and in the air. 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”.

SkyLights is a graduate of BA parent company IAG’s Hangar 51 start-up accelerator programme. Earlier this year, British Airways trialled the technology at Heathrow Terminal 5.