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‘Virtual reality airline’ vows in-flight experience without actually travelling

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WATCH: Why are people choosing virtual reality vacations? – Feb 22, 2018

An airline in Japan is offering consumers an in-flight experience — without actually going anywhere.

First Airlines is giving those who want to travel, but have limitations such as money or health, a chance to discover what a plane ride is like through a “virtual reality airline.”

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While the airline probably won’t provide some of air travel’s not-so-glamorous features, such as crying babies, snoring passengers and bathroom lines, it will have plenty to offer.

The virtual experience will ask customers to sit a room designed like a plane, then put on virtual reality glasses. According to CNN, the “passengers” will get a first-class or business class travel experience complete with flight attendants and gourmet meals.

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They’ll then arrive at their destination, such as New York, Paris, Rome or Hawaii, and receive a virtual 360 degrees tour of the region.

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Then, they’ll land without ever dealing with airport customs, lineups or baggage fees. The entire experience will be 111 minutes, according to the airline’s website.

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Each experience, depending on different packages, will cost between 4,980 to 5,980 yen — that’s about C$59 to C$71. Tokyo residents interested in trying out the virtual reality experience can book their tickets on the airline’s website now.

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First Airlines shared photos of what the experience will look like:

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First Airlines manager Hirokai Ab, explained to CNN why he thinks the idea will attract customers.

“For me, it’s difficult to have a trip because of the costs, like time and money,” he said. “If I can easily access the airport and take a flight even though it’s virtual, I thought it would be so cool.”

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