First airline to offer a virtual reality entertainment experience inflight

Qantas first class flyers to get VR headsets. Qantas and Samsung unveiled industry-first virtual reality experience for travelers.


To open up a new world of lounge and inflight entertainment for customers, Qantas, the Australian national carrier, together with Samsung Electronics Australia has launched a new trial entertainment service that uses Samsung virtual reality (VR) technology to give customers a spectacular three dimensional experience in a 360 degree style interactive format.

First class travelers on select Airbus A380 services between Australia and Los Angeles will be able to experience the delights of network destinations, new
Qantas products and the latest inflight blockbuster movies.

As part of the trial, a number of Samsung Gear VR headsets will be made available to customers in Sydney and Melbourne International First Lounges as well as in the First Class cabins on select A380 services. Qantas claims it is the only airline to offer a virtual reality entertainment experience inflight.

“Whether the user wants a virtual tour of our new Los Angeles First Lounge or to experience an A380 landing from the tarmac, this technology gives us a completely new way to connect with our customers,” said Qantas Group Executive, Brand, Marketing & Corporate Affairs Olivia Wirth.

“From an inflight entertainment perspective, it’s an industry first. Qantas is committed to being at the forefront of innovation to give our passengers the very best and latest in-flight experiences, like accessing the virtual worlds of their favourite Hollywood blockbusters from the comfort of their seat 40,000 feet above the ground.

“It’s also a fantastic tool to feature our network’s destinations, inspiring travel and promoting tourism.”

Qantas is also working closely with production company Jaunt to develop and produce the live-action content including destination footage.