Augmented reality and virtual reality in the aviation industry: A research on passenger experiences

The aim of the research is to examine the acceptance of augmented reality/virtual reality technology by passengers in the aviation industry in terms of improving their travel experiences. For this purpose, qualitative method was followed in the research and phenomenological pattern was used. To determine the study group of the research, 30 participants were reached by using the criterion sampling method, one of the purposeful sampling methods. The data of the research were collected with a semi-structured interview form and the data obtained was analyzed by content analysis. According to the analysis, it was determined that the participants experienced intense feelings of excitement, fear and stress during the air travel experience. However, it has been determined that excitement is especially dominant among these emotions. Considering the opinions of experienced participants, it has been revealed that augmented reality (AR) technology provides a realistic experience. In the review conducted on the usability of AR technology in air travel experiences, it was determined that the participants had a positive opinion. The potential of AR technology to increase comfort, reduce fear, direct attention and provide multiple contributions has been shown to allow users to have a positive experience. In addition, it has been determined that the augmented reality application has many contributions to the experience of air travel, and among these contributions, its stress reduction feature stands out compared to others. Participants' views on the potential of AR/VR technology to increase passenger comfort during flights have significantly intensified. It was determined that the advantage of airline companies in adopting and integrating these technologies was expressed by the participants as increasing the frequency of choosing air travel. On the other hand, it was concluded that the cost factor was also pointed out regarding the difficulty in using AR technology.