LATAM Inaugurates South America’s First Boeing 787 Passenger Cabin Simulator in Chile
LATAM Airlines has inaugurated its new Cabin Crew Academy in Pudahuel, Santiago de Chile. This cutting-edge training center is located at the group’s operations and maintenance base and stands out for its focus on state-of-the-art technology and energy efficiency.
South America’s First Boeing 787 Mockup
The centerpiece of the new facility is a Boeing 787 Dreamliner mockup, the first of its kind in South America. Manually reconstructed using original components provided by Boeing in 2021, this replica features details from the Premium Business and Economy classes, the fuselage, the galley, and a lighting system representative of the actual aircraft.
The seats were repurposed from the wide-body fleet renovation, and the entire structure is designed with modular, assemblable components that allow for individual repairs and updates, extending its lifespan. According to Ignacio Echeverría, Director of Internal Communications, Organizational Development, and Talent at LATAM Airlines Group, this infrastructure reaffirms the company’s commitment to the continuous development of its employees and operational excellence.
→ LATAM Airlines Launches Its Own eSIM
Virtual Reality and Operational Cost Reduction
The training center is notable not only for its realism but also for its incorporation of virtual reality technology. This innovation enables staff training without the need for a grounded aircraft, significantly reducing long-term operational costs. LATAM was a pioneer in implementing this type of virtual instruction for its cabin crew.
Thanks to this system, approximately 2,000 crew members per year will be trained through highly validated practical simulations. This approach strengthens key competencies for high-pressure situations, reduces errors, boosts confidence in executing procedures, and enhances soft skills such as communication and empathy.
A Sustainable Training Center
The new complex also stands out for its sustainable design. Key features include:
- Wall coverings constructed from over 150 recycled pallets.
- Allura Flex vinyl flooring, 60% to 70% recyclable, phthalate-free, and low-emission.
- Acoustic ceiling panels made from recycled PET bottles, with a textile finish.
Additionally, the center uses high-efficiency inverter climate control systems, which adjust compressor speed to optimize cooling or heating. All lighting is LED, ensuring low energy consumption and long durability.
With this investment, LATAM Airlines Group modernizes its crew training methods while adhering to sustainability, efficiency, and operational realism criteria.
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