Airline Signs First Global Deal for A350 Virtual Trainer

Japan Airlines (JAL) has become the first A350 operator globally to sign up with Airbus for the computer-based A350 Virtual Procedure Trainer (VPT). This training tool offers a highly immersive and interactive environment for practising critical flight procedures and emergency scenarios.

JAL’s adoption of the A350 VPT comes as the airline extends its partnership for the use of the MATe suite (Mobile Airbus Training experience) for systems training and practice. With this integration, JAL now benefits from the full spectrum of Airbus flight training solutions, leveraging the latest training concepts and technologies to enhance training efficiency and knowledge retention.

The airline’s inaugural group of trainees on the A350 VPT comprises 12 pilots. This five-year initiative reflects JAL's commitment to upholding standards of safety and operational excellence.

The Airbus-developed VPT provides realistic virtual environments tailored to the airline's specific models, helping to enhance pilot proficiency and preparedness. Its flexibility allows for training at any time and location, reducing disruptions and offering significant cost-efficiency by minimising training expenses and aircraft downtime.

Hiroshi Horikawa, Flight Training Vice President at JAL said: "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.”

As of August 2024, JAL operates 15 A350-900s and five A350-1000s, with a backlog of 23 A350-900s and eight A350-1000s on order.

 Airbus is a Silver Sponsor at this year's Asia Pacific Airline Training Symposium (APATS), taking place now through 11 September. To learn more, stop by booth H-300.