Virtual reality training comes to Nuremberg Airport

Virtual reality training has come to Nuremberg Airport to help prepare new staff for working on the apron.

Before new employees are allowed to marshal aircraft, operate special vehicles or load baggage, they undergo extensive theoretical and practical training. This training is now supported by VR headsets that recreate everyday airport operations in remarkably realistic detail.

Around 50 new employees have to be trained each year for ramp service operations, covering tasks on the apron. In addition, regular refresher courses are provided for existing staff.

“Until now, this meant one day of theory followed by learning how to apply it in practice,” explains ramp services trainer Erkan Catoglu.

HIGHLY REALISTIC AIRPORT ENVIRONMENT

Using VR headsets and joysticks, trainees can test their newly acquired skills in a virtual airport environment that closely mirrors real-world conditions.

The training modules cover a wide range of scenarios, including the safe handling of arriving aircraft, the operation of baggage conveyor belts and ground power units, driving tow tractors, performing pushback procedures, and communicating with the cockpit.

A key advantage of the new VR technology is that it allows trainees to build confidence in a safe environment.

“The goal is for trainees to overcome their fears and practise their new tasks without any risk,” says trainer Catoglu.

The virtual scenarios also deliberately include critical situations that could otherwise lead to accidents. In the simulated environment, however, mistakes result neither in injuries nor in costly damage to aircraft. As Catoglu puts it: “It helps people learn how to make the right decisions, even under pressure.”

The VR training solution is provided by Draxon GmbH, based in Cologne. The company specialises in realistic simulation-based training for airport ground handling operations.