Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Aviation Education and Pilot Training: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jonah Gonzalo
Journal: Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Review (GJETR)
Published: 2026-05-29 · Volume 2, Issue 05, pp. 151-159
DOI: 10.65150/EP-gjetr/V2E5/2026-04
Abstract
This systematic review investigates how Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies transform aviation education and pilot training programs. The study used the PRISMA 2020 framework to synthesize empirical data, review articles and foundational literature which authors published between 2020 and 2026 in Scopus and IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases. Eight core studies and additional foundational references were analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of immersive technologies in improving pilot performance, procedural learning, situational awareness, learner engagement, accessibility, and training efficiency. The study results show that virtual reality and augmented reality systems improve knowledge retention, help users develop procedural skills, and increase student motivation, while these systems provide affordable solutions that can be implemented on a large scale to replace conventional flight simulators. Current studies demonstrate that aviation training environments now use artificial intelligence combined with adaptive learning systems and biometric tracking and mixed reality technologies. The aviation education system needs to address three main challenges which include cybersickness issues, the high expenses of equipment, the lack of instructor preparedness and the need to evaluate how training sticks with students throughout their entire learning process.