Ramping up Virtual Reality Training
Delta Air Lines is one of the largest transportation companies in the world. With over 5,400 flights daily, it’s imperative they keep planes moving around the world in a manner that is quick, efficient, and safe. To do that, it takes thousands of employees that work in an important field known as ramp operations. It’s a challenging environment for training new employees, which prompted Delta to turn to VR training as a solution. By taking this approach, Delta could educate employees specifically on walk-around inspections without having to clear up ramp space, tie up valuable airplane operating time, or risk employee safety.
Taking Ramp Operations Training to New Heights
To create Delta’s VR training experience, we first took a look at their existing material. We found that it would be easy to take traditional, on-site training and recreate a realistic digital airport environment. The VR experience starts by transporting trainees to the airport at one of Delta’s arrival gates and allows them to virtually initiate a walk-around inspection. Visual instructions and auditory cues were added to guide learners through the experience.
This is HUGE! You could do training on different scenarios without putting yourself in a position of danger. Delta is amazing and certainly going in the right direction.”
-Employee feedback on overall VR experience, course content, and impact on learning retention.
The experience simulated a real-world environment, compelling learners to work against the clock and address impromptu problems amidst an array of visual and auditory distractions. The application also allowed users to measure their performance and compare results on a final scoreboard.
When Procedural Training Goes the Extra Mile
Delta’s Procedural VR Training Experience is proving to be an efficient and powerful way to train the ramp operations team. Thousands of employees have trained on the experience, and participants found the VR training experience to be effective and easy to use. Out of those surveyed, 95% said that VR implementation is “helpful” or “very helpful” for employee training. This VR experience has generated a new excitement around training at Delta, reinforcing Foundry 45’s passion for using leading-edge technologies to create better process training outcomes.
Delta is always trying to push the envelope with new technology. This new experience is a perfect example of our commitment to innovation, and the results have been outstanding.”
-Kevin Marcum, Program Manager, Delta Air Lines
