Digital projects at LAT

EFFICIENT TRAINING FOR THE FUTURE

Examples from current digital pioneering projects

TOOLS FOR OUR FUTURE

Many topics can be digitized. But where do innovative solutions and methodologies provide real added value and where is the greatest potential for development?
With these aspects in mind, we monitor the megatrends and identify pioneering projects for aviation training. We will present a small selection of current projects below.
 

Airbus Virtual Reality (VR) Procedure Training

LAT AS LAUNCHING PARTNER

Together with a number of LH Group airlines, LAT as launching partner is testing a newly developed VR solution from Airbus for pilot training – the "Virtual Procedure Trainer". This enables pilots to immerse themselves individually or as a team in a virtual cockpit with a realistic panoramic view by using a VR headset and controller ("immersion"). This allows them to train standard procedures in an innovative way and prepare effectively for later phases in the training program. In the future, this could even be possible from home, depending on further hardware development. The software can be used with VR equipment and by way of supplementation also via an iPad app. 
The first two VR setups – initially for the A320 aircraft type, then also for the A330 and A350 – have already been installed in our training centers in Frankfurt, Vienna, and Zurich. As part of a test phase examining user acceptance and the potential of both software and hardware, the extent is being investigated to which the VR solution can be integrated efficiently into the LH Group training environment. LAT, the LH Group airlines, and Airbus are working closely together to further develop the software with the aim of implementing it within an approved type-rating course. 
The project was selected for, and presented successfully at, the German government's 2023 Digital Summit. In addition, LAT has developed its own 360 VR procedure trainer as a tablet solution. This is available for all types of aircraft available in our training portfolio. The easy-to-use tool can be purchased as part of the wet training courses or as a stand-alone solution.

Game-based learning

Game-based learning encompasses all learning arrangements in which the medium conveying the learning content is a game. This includes, for example, serious games, simulation games, etc., which means that they can be implemented both virtually and in person. Unlike the concept of gamification, in which regular learning content is enriched with game elements such as high scores, batches, or leader boards, game-based learning focuses on the game itself. Game-based learning formats can lead to an increase in motivation, engagement, as well as emotional involvement and enjoyment (cf. Game On: Exploring the Effectiveness of Game-based Learning: Planning Practice & Research: Vol 35, No 5 (tandfonline.com)). In addition, scientific studies have shown that game-based learning leads to better and more sustainable learning success (cf. CHU_KR-3_Wouters2_2013_Digitale-Spiele-und-Motivation.pdf (tum.de); CHU_KR-2_Wouters1_2013_Spielbasiertes-Lernen.pdf (tum.de)).

Game-based learning lends itself to a wide variety of contexts and is increasingly being integrated into LAT training concepts (such as voluntary learning content, learning contexts/learning contents that tend to be on the boring side, for a change of method, etc.).
 

Smart Learning Hub

High-quality content for effective crew training:
Smart Learning Hub is a training app developed by LAT in collaboration with an agency to enable effective crew training from anywhere – both online and offline. For the A320neo, several training modules on the topics of doors and exits as well as emergency equipment location are already available, with more content to follow.
Thanks to 360° environments, Smart Learning Hub conveys a realistic environment and optimally prepares crew members for their daily tasks. Through interactive animations, trainees are familiarized with important functions and processes involved in the operation of doors. High-quality graphics and animations illustrate extraordinary scenarios such as ditchings or fire incidents. Thanks to 3D modeling, devices can be explored in detail and from all perspectives.

Interactive tasks for knowledge application
Each thematic chapter consists of tutorials, exercises to be performed independently, and tests. In the tutorial mode, trainees are guided through the content and gradually discover relevant elements or functions. Exercises to be performed independently and test modules allow them to practice using various scenario-based tasks, such as fire emergencies or situations where medical equipment is needed.
Starting in 2024, Smart Learning Hub will be introduced by several airlines, including Lufthansa Cityline, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines for their first cabin course.

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Oliver Hofmann

Business Development