Emirates: New Virtual Reality Technology Assists Customers with Seat Selection

Emirates has launched 3D seat models on emirates.com, becoming the first airline to introduce web virtual reality (VR) technology on its digital platform.

The 3D seat model is a visualisation engine that displays an immersive 3D 360 degree view of the interior of the Emirates A380 and the Emirates Boeing 777, giving customers a chance to explore their seats, the spacious cabin and the Emirates onboard product.

The new feature allows users to navigate through the Economy, Business and First Class cabins, as well as the iconic Onboard Lounge and Shower Spa on the Emirates A380 using navigational hotspots.

The VR technology tool will soon include renderings of Emirates’ entire fleet.

“We are pleased to be the world’s first airline to introduce this cutting edge web VR technology, which offers our customers an immersive opportunity to learn more about the fantastic Emirates experience before they step on board,” said Alex Knigge, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing and Brand (Digital).

Customers accessing emirates.com via their mobile devices or the Emirates app for iOS and Android will also be able to explore their seats before checking in online with the 3D seat map. The tool allows customers to navigate from one seat to another, and even allows would-be customers to book their preferred seats from within the 3D environment.

“In our usability tests with customers, we found that they particularly appreciated the 3D seat and cabin models when selecting their seats,” Knigge added.

Users can also enjoy hands-free cabin navigation and seat selection by using any VR headset like Google Cardboard.

This award-winning technology is compatible with all devices without the need for external applications or plugins.

In addition to the new 3D cabin models, new product videos are available on emirates.com which illustrate the end to end travel experience across all cabins.