European Airline Adopts Virtual Reality for Pilot Procedure Training in 2026

Switzerland – Edelweiss Air AG, a Swiss leisure airline within the Lufthansa Group, has introduced Virtual Reality-based cockpit training through the Virtual Procedure Trainer (VPT) in collaboration with Lufthansa Aviation Training (LAT), integrating immersive 3D cockpit simulation into its pilot training pathway.

• Cockpit trainees now use VR headsets to train in a highly realistic 3D cockpit environment before progressing to Full Flight Simulator (FFS) sessions.
• The Virtual Procedure Trainer (VPT) enables independent procedural practice, allowing trainees to rehearse flows, checklists, and cockpit familiarization outside traditional simulator slots.
• The initiative is delivered in partnership with Lufthansa Aviation Training Group, the Lufthansa Group’s centralized training provider.
• By shifting selected procedural elements into VR, Edelweiss aims to optimize FFS utilization, improve preparation levels, and enhance standardization across training cohorts.

Source: Edelweiss Air AG Photo Credit: Edelweiss Air AG