Use Cases

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Certified Virtual Reality Helicopter Pilot Training 

Air Zermatt, renowned for high‑mountain rescue operations in the Swiss Alps, teamed up with Varjo to deliver the industry’s first EASA-certified VR helicopter flight simulator, enabling official training hours through virtual sessions. 

 

 

Challenge

Helicopter pilot training is limited by aircraft availability, high costs, weather dependency, and safety risks, especially for emergency procedures below 30 knots, which are difficult to rehearse with real flights or traditional simulators.

 

 

VR helicopter flight simulator
VR helicopter flight simulator

Solution

Air Zermatt deployed a Varjo-powered VR simulator in a full-scale cockpit replica. Pilots train in ultra‑realistic virtual environments complete with realistic lighting, terrain, and emergency scenarios while using actual controls and motion feedback. The system meets EASA and FAA requirements, so virtual hours count toward official certifications.

Benefits and Impact

  • Official training credits: Virtual sessions now count toward pilot licensing.

  • Realistic simulation: High fidelity even below 30 knots with detailed visuals and tactile feedback create real-world precision.

  • Safe and flexible: Train emergency scenarios anytime, in any weather.

  • Cost-efficient: Simulator setup is significantly smaller and cheaper than full-flight simulators or real-flight training.

  • Accessibility: Frequent training cycles possible with minimal logistical effort

+75%

faster training

-50%

training costs

+300%

knowledge retention

+40%

task accuracy & productivity

-100%

real-world risk

+90%

learner satisfaction

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