KLM Offers Travel from Home with New Virtual Reality Platform

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has launched a new virtual reality (VR) service through its online travel magazine iFly, offering viewers the opportunity to “take a trip”, right from the comfort of their home.

The airline’s online platform uses VR and allows visitors to experience a near-lifelike journey.

“By introducing virtual reality, KLM is again blazing a new trail to inspire people and give them the ultimate experience,” said Boet Kreiken, EVP Customer Experience for KLM.

iFly VR captures some of the most beautiful places in the world in 360 degrees and is hosted by the celebrity “Fearless Chef” Kiran Jethwa. In the first of three editions, Jethwa takes viewers to the Thai jungle where he heads off in search of the world’s most remarkable coffee beans.

During the episode, Jethwa guides his viewers through the delicate production process, from coffee bean to steaming cup of coffee. This special coffee is produced with the help of elephants.

The VR experience ensures that viewers really experience it up close, putting them literally face-to-face with these majestic beasts.

“Our digital iFly magazine reaches millions of people. With the help of iFly, we are constantly looking for new ways to inspire people to discover the world,” Kreiken added.

Akha tribe.

Very soon, iFly will include 360-degree breath-taking travel videos, nearly as impressive as taking real trips.

Through the platform, guests will be able to “travel” across rivers, “sit” among the locals at a ceremony, and almost “feel” the sun warming their head.

“Passengers” will be able to enjoy the new videos with VR glasses, as well as on a tablet or smartphone.

KLM’s next iFly VR production will take place in Hawaii.

Photos: KLM