Richardson, Texas – [2/11/2025] – The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are embarking on a groundbreaking research initiative focused on the application of Extended Reality (XR) technologies—such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR)—to revolutionize aerospace maintenance and training. The FAA has awarded UTD’s Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Simulation Technology (VAST) Lab a $5 million contract to explore how immersive technologies can enhance the safety, efficiency, and training practices in the aerospace industry.
In collaboration with the FAA’s Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI), this project will involve cutting-edge research on the application of XR technologies within the National Airspace System (NAS). The research will address critical human factors that impact maintenance workflows, including training effectiveness, human performance, and operational safety. The goal is to integrate XR into the training and operational procedures of aerospace maintenance to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and improve safety standards across the industry.
Revolutionizing Aerospace Maintenance with XR
The research conducted by UTD and FAA CAMI will focus on creating immersive training environments and operational tools to provide real-time guidance during complex maintenance tasks. These XR technologies will allow aerospace technicians to visualize complex scenarios, interact with virtual elements, and receive remote expert assistance while conducting fieldwork. By enhancing the immersive learning experience and improving the accuracy of technical operations, XR technologies have the potential to significantly reduce errors and improve overall efficiency in aerospace maintenance.
“We are excited to partner with the FAA on this important research initiative,” said Jeff Price, Director of the VAST Lab at UTD. “The use of XR in aerospace maintenance has incredible potential to reshape the way we approach technical training and operational efficiency. This collaboration will allow us to push the boundaries of XR research and bring tangible benefits to an industry where safety is paramount.”
Key Research Areas
As part of the collaboration, researchers from UTD will explore several key areas where XR technologies can be applied to aerospace maintenance and training, including:
In addition to training applications, the research will explore how XR can be integrated into everyday maintenance tasks to support technicians in the field. This includes remote expert assistance, where technicians can receive real-time guidance from specialists, and virtual site visits that simulate the working environment without the need for travel.
Human Factors Research
An essential component of the research will involve understanding the human factors associated with the use of XR technologies, such as the impact of cybersickness, ergonomic challenges, and comfort levels when wearing XR headsets for extended periods. The findings will inform future development of XR hardware and help optimize training programs to enhance human performance in real-world settings.
“The intersection of human factors and XR technology is crucial to ensuring that these tools are practical and effective for use in high-stakes environments like aerospace maintenance,” added Price. “By addressing challenges like comfort, safety, and usability, we can ensure that XR technologies are not only innovative but also functional in the field.”
Looking Ahead
This partnership between UTD and FAA CAMI is expected to have far-reaching implications, not only for the aerospace industry but also for other industries where XR can be applied to improve technical training and operations. The research will span a period of 24 months, with the potential for early implementation of some XR tools in the coming years. Throughout the research process, UTD will work closely with FAA researchers and stakeholders to ensure that findings are integrated into actionable solutions for the aviation industry.
For more information on the VAST Lab and its research initiatives, please visit [vastlab.com].
About the VAST Lab
The Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Simulation Technology (VAST) Lab at the University of Texas at Dallas is a leading research facility dedicated to exploring the potential of immersive technologies. The lab is committed to advancing the boundaries of virtual and augmented reality in order to enhance education, improve technical training, and revolutionize industries.