CAA approves Exeter firm’s VR aircrew training tool

Exeter-based tech company Cineon has received approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority to use its new virtual reality training system for aviation training.

The system, called TACET, uses VR and eye-tracking technology to help train aircrew during aircraft safety inspections, known as walkarounds. The approval means it can now be officially used as a recognised training device for pilots and aviation staff.

This is the first time a VR-based device has been approved for pilot training by the CAA.

The pre-flight walkaround is one of the most safety-critical procedures in aviation, yet training is often limited by weather conditions, aircraft availability, and the inability to replicate defects or hazards without risk.

Cineon’s TACET Walkaround resolves these issues by creating a repeatable, high-fidelity virtual environment where pilots can carry out realistic inspections before they step onto the tarmac.

The system uses in-built eye-tracking to understand where the trainee is looking and if critical information has been absorbed and acted upon. Compatible with multiple aircraft types, including the Boeing 737-800 and Airbus A321-Neo, the solution can be adapted to support other fleets. 

At the core of TACET Walkaround is Cineon’s Empathic Learning Engine (ELE) – a Behavioural AI API trained on millions of human interactions.

ELE interprets behavioural and eye-tracking data to measure scanning efficiency, situational awareness and visual attention alongside inspection time and hazard detection. This provides objective feedback and measurable assessment, supporting the aviation sector’s move towards competency-based training and assessment (CBTA).

“Approval of TACET Walkaround by the CAA represents a breakthrough for aviation training,” said Toby de Burgh, CEO of Cineon. “It demonstrates that immersive and data-led approaches can not only meet but exceed regulatory standards. With our behavioural AI powering TACET, we are combining realism, repeatability and measurable insights to help airlines raise the bar for pilot readiness and safety.”

Jet2.com, one of the UK’s leading airlines, has installed six VIVE Focus Vision headsets across its Manchester and Bradford training centres, becoming the first airline to adopt this CAA-approved VR training solution.

Captain Christopher Harris, Head of Crew Training (NPCT), Jet2.com, said: “At Jet2.com, safety is our top priority, and training plays a critical role in that commitment. Partnering with Cineon to implement TACET Walkaround in our Manchester and Bradford training centres allows our pilots to experience a realistic, measurable and CAA-approved simulation of pre-flight inspections.

"This innovative approach ensures they gain the skills and confidence they need before stepping onto the tarmac. We are proud to be leading the way in adopting technology that can enhance both safety and efficiency across our pilot training programmes, and we look forward to exploring the wider potential of TACET in future training initiatives.”

Jason Buck, Head of Business Development at Exeter Science Park, said: “We are delighted to see Cineon achieve a global milestone from their base at Exeter Science Park. Supporting innovative businesses with the high-quality facilities, collaborative environment and partnerships they need to grow is central to our mission and this recognition from the Civil Aviation Authority highlights the kind of pioneering work taking place here.”

For more information, visit www.cineon.ai