USA. Westfield and American Airlines have introduced a virtual reality experience to travellers at JFK International Airport Terminal 8, through a new pop-up unit. It is part of Facebook’s Virtual Reality Roadshow.
Facebook is offering the experience in 28 cities with Samsung’s Gear VR, powered by Oculus. The JFK pop-up will remain in the terminal, post-security, until 27 January.
Travellers are greeted by a Facebook brand ambassador and given an introduction to virtual reality. Viewers are transported through a series of scenes, ranging from meeting a dinosaur up close, boating through a Southeast Asian village and getting dunked on by basketball star LeBron James.
“This is such a cool way to engage travellers and have some fun with technology,” said Westfield Airports Executive Vice President Dominic Lowe. “Working with American Airlines, we’re tapping into partnerships, brands and retailers that energise travellers by offering new experiences.”
“Travellers are having an absolute blast participating in such a fascinating and enjoyable virtual reality experience,” said American Airlines Managing Director Mike McKanna. “We’re always on the lookout for new ways to entertain travellers, and taking part in Facebook’s virtual reality tour was too good to pass up.”
The virtual reality experience is free, available to anyone 13 years and up and lasts about five minutes. Travellers are offered an image of themselves in the VR headset to share with friends.
The technology was developed in collaboration between Samsung and Oculus.
As reported, American Airlines and Westfield are investing in improving the customer journey at JFK Terminal 8. A new luxury retail collection includes MAC Cosmetics, Kiehl’s, Salvatore Ferragamo, Bulgari and other brands.
