CAE launches Apple Vision Pro app for pilot training

The future of flight training could be very different from the dusty days of wading through text books and trying to memorise hundreds of facts. The world’s biggest aviation training company, CAE, has just launched an immersive pilot training app for Apple Vision Pro.

CAE’s Apple Vision Pro app, revealed at this week’s NBAA-BACE business aviation event in Las Vegas, Nevada, uses “spatial computing to bring true-to-life precision to flight deck interactions.”

“This Apple Vision Pro app developed by CAE will allow pilots to familiarise themselves with the flight deck, practice critical procedures, and develop muscle memory for key functions from anywhere,” said Emmanuel Levitte, CAE’s Chief Technology and Product Officer.

“It will allow pilots to engage with realistic flight deck environments to further ensure they are ready for their full-flight simulator sessions and become even better prepared for any situation.”

The examples given by CAE include:

• ‘Exploration Mode’: a pilot can touch a specific control and view a description of that control in context.
• ‘Guided Mode’: the user is led to learn the various procedures of the aircraft, guiding the pilot to the next action required to learn the sequences.
• “Flight Deck Interaction Mode’: pilots can use the virtual flight deck to simulate any kind of interaction in a natural way and begin to train their muscle memory. In the real aircraft, for example, the main battery switch needs to be pulled before being flipped. The same can be done in this spatial computing experience.

The app can be programmed for any aircraft type and the intention is to complement to existing CAE solutions for both business and commercial pilot training. The app is currently being tested on the Bombardier Global 7500 programme and is scheduled to be rolled out in spring 2025.

Apple explains Vision Pro as its first 3D camera. “You can capture magical spatial photos and videos in 3D, then relive those cherished moments like never before with immersive Spatial Audio.

“Apple Immersive Video puts you in the centre of the action with mind‑blowing immersion.”