If you've ever wondered what it would be like to pilot a fighter plane, you're in luck. During a flight exhibition in Canada, an impressive 360-degree video filmed from inside the P-51D Mustang 'Val-Halla' was shown.
Abbotsford Airshow 2015
In early August, the Abbotsford Airshow 2015 took place, held annually at Abbotsford Airport in Canada. These shows feature both civil and military aircraft of Canadian and American origin. This time, the stars were the American planes: the F-22 Raptor and the P-51D Mustang 'Val-Halla'. The P-51D Mustang is a fighter that entered service with the Allied air forces during World War II. If you ever thought about piloting such a war machine, you're in luck: below you can see an impressive 360-degree video filmed from inside the P-51D Mustang.
This 360-degree video shows the flight made by pilot Greg Anders aboard the P-51D Mustang together with the F-22 Raptor during the parade. Just like with Google Maps panoramic views, by clicking on the video you can look in any direction and feel as if you are sitting inside the cockpit. This technology was first seen in the Patrouille Suisse, the flight demonstration group of the Swiss Air Force, during a flight over the Alps. In the video you can see the formation maneuvers performed by the Northrop F-5 fighter, with even the movements of the throttle visible from inside the cockpit, all set against an incredible landscape.
The future of 360-degree video
The technology of capturing 360-degree videos and reproducing them on YouTube is going to change the video-watching experience. Already, just being able to feel as if you're inside the cockpit enjoying the flight is incredible. Moreover, aerial recordings could also be used for verification by pilots; they can watch their route again and review the environment around them during the flight in search of particular details. It will be very exciting when this technology can be enjoyed together with virtual reality glasses, allowing a whole new experience.
