Emirates Airlines debuted the first airline virtual reality app this week, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to using cutting-edge VR technology to reach and engage customers around the world.
“Emirates aims to provide innovative and outstanding customer experiences whether onboard, on the ground, or in the digital space. In 2018, we were the world’s first airline to introduce advanced web VR technology on our digital platforms, offering our customers an immersive opportunity to learn about the fantastic Emirates experience that awaited them before they stepped on board.”
Boutros Boutros, Emirates’ Divisional Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing and Brand
Customers of Emirates can use navigational hotspots developed in collaboration with the technology company Renacen to navigate through the airline’s Economy, Business, and First Class cabins, explore their seats, and visit the renowned Onboard Lounge and Shower Spa on the Emirates A380. With the new Premium Economy cabin and the latest A380 aircraft interiors, Emirates is working on a revised version.
This initiative is particularly relevant right now, as many people have not travelled for a while due to the pandemic, and are seeking inspiration and researching and rediscovering their flight options.
Boutros Boutros, Emirates’ Divisional Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing and Brand
Currently, users can explore the following Emirates’ VR experiences via:
Emirates Oculus VR app on the Oculus Store: offering users accurate, life size and interactive cabin interior experiences onboard Emirates’ flagship A380 aircraft and Boeing 777-300ER Gamechanger aircraft. For instance, users can “pick up” items from the Onboard Lounge, “turn on” the Shower in the Shower Spa, or close the private suite doors behind them. They can even explore the cockpit.
Emirates.com on PCs, mobile devices or the Emirates app for iOS and Android: An immersive 3D, web VR and 360 degree view of Emirates’ Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft cabin interiors (all 20 different configurations across the airline’s fleet). Customers can explore their seats before checking in online with the 3D seat map. The tool allows customers to navigate from one seat to another, and even allows would-be customers to book their preferred seats from within the 3D environment. Users can also enjoy hands-free cabin navigation and seat selection by using any VR headset like Google Cardboard. This award-winning technology is compatible with all devices without the need for external applications or plugins.
Emirates’ virtual reality experience has been named top 6 finalist in this year’s 5th International VR Awards in the “VR marketing of the year” category.