Qantas to trial virtual reality entertainment
Forget about watching films on tiny plane seat screens – Qantas passengers are about to be immersed in a whole new world of entertainment.
The airline, in conjunction with Samsung, is trialling a virtual reality entertainment service.
Samsung Gear VR headsets will be available to customers in Sydney and Melbourne International First Lounges as well as in the first class cabins on select A380 services for three months, to see whether it will become a feature on long-haul flights.
Qantas group executive, brand, marketing and corporate affairs Olivia Wirth says the technology will open up a new world of lounge and inflight entertainment for customers, as well as give Qantas a powerful way to preview destinations and experiences.
“Whether the user wants a virtual tour of our new Los Angeles First Lounge or experience an A380 landing from the tarmac, this technology gives us a completely new way to connect with our customers.”
The airline is also working with production company Jaunt to develop and produce the live-action content, including destination footage.
The Samsung VR headsets will be featured in the first class lounge in Sydney and Melbourne from mid-February and on select A380 flights between Australia and Los Angeles in the first class cabin from mid-March.
