Lufthansa Air Swing VR Experience
For Lufthansa's appearance at the ITB - the largest tourism trade fair in the world, we wanted to to awake the curiosity of trade fair visitors. Specifically – a desire to travel to some of the selected destinations served by Lufthansa Group airlines. In cooperation with Kolle Rebbe, an immersive VR swing was created. One that thrilled over 1,000 trade fair visitors at the ITB, and will also be used at future trade fairs worldwide.
Swinging amongst the clouds
Sitting on a real swing with VR glasses, visitors find themselves 5,000 meters above the trade fair in Berlin. Here they have a moment to orient themselves, get used to the height and make their first swings above the clouds. They can let their gaze wander 360 degrees to the horizon.
From Vienna to Cape Town
Once in the Experience, the user is guided through the entire journey by a trade fair host. The most important question: which of the four locations to go to? New York, San Francisco, Vienna, or Cape Town. Once the visitor has made their choice, the cloud cover closes and disappears again seconds later above the chosen city.
Authentic movements in VR
A setup that combines the real and the virtual world
In addition to the user's VR headset, the position of the swing is also tracked. Several trackers, attached to the sides of the swing, transfer the exact position and acceleration of the swing one to one into the virtual scene. It is only through this setup that the real rocking experience and the virtual 3D world are united into one unseen experience.
Tailor-made user experience
Instead of visitors controlling the experience themselves, a host personally accompanies the user throughout the entire experience. A VR-concierge supports them in putting on the VR glasses on, and navigating through the application. Providing the a first-class Lufthansa service just as they do in real life. In addition to selecting and switching between destinations, the host also has control over the free fall - a fast descent through the air initiated on request. Cascading through the cloud cover, they gently slow down after a few hundred meters.
Selected points of interest
In addition to realistic, animated clouds and birds, each destination also offers location-specific 3D assets that further enhance the experience and enhance the immersive feeling of depth. Selected points of interest, such as the Statue of Liberty in New York, help users find their way around.
Binaural sound experience
The VR experience is supported by specifically controlled 3D sounds. From changing wind noises while rocking, which vary with every movement of the head, to the creaking ropes of the swing, to city specific sounds in the distance. Everything designed to give the authentic impression that you’re rocking high above the city and clouds.
Worldwide applicable installation
Thanks to a positive response from visitors and smooth operation at the ITB, the Lufthansa Air Swing VR Experience proved to be a valuable addition to Lufthansa's trade fair repertoire. The simple integration of additional locations means that the VR Swing can continue to inspire (trade fair) visitors all over the world in the future.
