Assessing evidence-based training in a collaborative virtual reality flight simulator

Abstract

In recent times, there has been increased focus on the utilisation of virtual reality flight simulators in flight training, driven by their advantages compared to conventional methods. However, a paucity of empirical evidence has prevented their widespread introduction and regulatory approval. Existing research focuses on single-user simulators, leaving a gap in studies of collaborative training within virtual environments. Consequently, this paper investigates evidence-based simulator training within a collaborative virtual environment. A mixed methods approach was adopted, where behaviours related to industry-standard competencies were observed in a virtual reality complex aircraft and thematic analysis applied to a post-experiment participant debrief. The findings showcase the feasibility of utilising a collaborative virtual environment for evidence-based training purposes in scenarios aligned to typical initial First Officer airline training programmes, which is a precursor to supplementing traditional professional pilot training techniques. In addition, the study found that the visual barriers imposed by head-mounted displays were overcome through the adoption of refined communication strategies, thus laying the groundwork for physically separated multi-crew pilot training.