Japan Airlines (JAL) has become the first A350 operator globally to sign up with Airbus for the computer-based A350 Virtual Procedure Trainer (VPT). This state-of-the-art training tool offers a highly immersive and interactive environment for practising critical flight procedures and emergency scenarios.

JAL’s adoption of the A350 VPT comes as the airline extends its partnership for the use of the MATe suite (Mobile Airbus Training experience) for systems training and practice. With this integration, JAL now benefits from the full spectrum of Airbus flight training solutions, leveraging the latest training concepts and technologies to enhance training efficiency and knowledge retention.

The airline’s inaugural group of trainees on the A350 VPT comprises twelve pilots.

The Airbus-developed VPT provides realistic virtual environments tailored to the airline's specific models, making it invaluable for enhancing pilot proficiency and preparedness. Its flexibility allows for training at any time and location, reducing disruptions and offering significant cost-efficiency by minimising training expenses and aircraft downtime.

Hiroshi Horikawa, Flight Training Vice President at JAL said: "Integrating the A350 VPT into our training curriculum will significantly elevate the quality of our flight crew training and enhance JAL's commitment to safety. We are excited about this new chapter in our collaboration with Airbus."

Airbus Head of Commercial Services for APAC, Balinda Zhang, added: “We are thrilled to support JAL with the implementation of the A350 VPT. Airbus is dedicated to providing exceptional support throughout the integration process to ensure a seamless transition. Our aim is to deliver a training solution that not only meets but exceeds JAL’s expectations, contributing to the airline’s continued excellence in flight crew training."

As of August 2024, JAL operates 15 A350-900s and five A350-1000s, with a backlog of 23 A350-900s and eight A350-1000s on order.