Qatar's VR engineers

In a first for the two companies and in the face of predictions that the number of global air passengers is set almost to double by 2036, Rolls-Royce and Qatar Airways are using Virtual Reality (VR) to train engineers.

A spokesman for the engine manufacturer explained: “The industry faces a growing challenge: more engineers need to be trained to maintain and repair a growing number of aircraft and their engines.

“While practical training will always be the main focus, Rolls-Royce is working on ways to incorporate Virtual Reality into its engineering training programmes as part of its IntelligentEngine vision.”

Qatar Airways engineers are the first in the industry to receive the training, using Rolls-Royce’s pioneering Trent XWB which powers the Airbus A350 and is Rolls’ largest engine.

Previously, an engine would have been transported to Doha to be used for the training, or Qatar Airways would have provided an engine in service, with the risk of damage to equipment and valuable flying time lost.

Rolls-Royce president – civil aerospace Chris Cholerton said: “Just as pilots train in a simulator, engineering tasks can be taught through Virtual Reality. Qatar Airways were first to take delivery of the Trent XWB, and their forward-thinking vision makes them the perfect launch partner for this technology.”

www.qatarairways.com

www.rolls-royce.com

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