A Research Agenda for Implementing Augmented Reality in Ab Initio Pilot Training

Augmented reality applications have the potential to change the learning experience and outcomes for the next generation of pilots. This study aimed at identifying learning issues related to ab initio flight training and exploring the potential of augmented reality in tackling them. A survey was conducted with 43 pilots (31 men, 12 women) and seven flight instructors (six men, one woman). The results show the contents of the ab initio flight course that were most difficult to learn according to the pilots’ and instructors’ experience. In addition, the participants assessed the training conditions they experienced. After familiarization with typical use cases of augmented reality, the pilots and flight instructors indicated flight training elements that could benefit from augmented reality. The results are used to specify a research agenda for developing augmented reality applications for future ab initio pilot training.