Pilot Sparks Outrage by Wearing Apple Vision Pro Headset While Flying

A pilot faced widespread criticism after sharing a brief video on the social media platform X, seemingly showing him flying an aircraft while wearing Apple's newly released Vision Pro headset.

In the footage, Chris Clarke, accompanied by a co-pilot, touted the headset's productivity enhancement. The video quickly garnered attention, amassing nearly six million views and eliciting calls for the pilot's license revocation, as reported by Gizmodo.

Responding to the backlash, Clarke claimed he was not piloting the plane in the video but was merely a passenger. However, doubts persisted, particularly as the footage showed him with his hand on the yoke, prompting questions about his involvement. Clarke subsequently removed the video.

Clickbait vs. Safety Concerns

Despite the possibility of the video being clickbait, concerns arose regarding pilots obstructing their vision with devices like the Vision Pro. While Clarke likened it to a head-up display (HUD), he clarified the significant differences. The Vision Pro provides a live video feed, introducing potential malfunctions or lags.

This incident also highlights the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) stance on obstructing a pilot's view, although, as of reporting, the FAA has not commented on the matter.

Following Vision Pro's launch, social media witnessed a surge in videos showcasing unconventional uses. The Independent reported that YouTuber Casey Neistat was featured in one, utilizing the headset during a trip around New York City, where in one scene he was riding a skateboard.

Another video depicted an individual driving a Tesla while wearing the Vision Pro, prompting concerns about potential safety compromises.

Amidst these developments, Apple cautioned users about compromising the intended experience by importing the $3,500 headset, particularly in areas where it has yet to be officially released. Despite some videos being satirical, they ignited concerns about real-world misuse, including interaction with virtual objects while driving.

Apple, Government Urge Responsible Vision Pro Use

Apple has addressed safety concerns through a dedicated webpage, outlining risks and prohibiting usage in certain environments or activities.

On its website, the tech giant advised Apple Vision Pro users: "Always remain aware of your environment and body posture during use. Apple Vision Pro is designed for use in controlled areas that are safe on a level surface. Do not use it around stairs, balconies, railings, glass, mirrors, sharp objects, sources of excessive heat, windows, or other hazards.

Never use Apple Vision Pro while operating a moving vehicle, bicycle, heavy machinery, or in any other situations requiring attention to safety. Using the device in low-light conditions may increase the risk of collision with objects in your environment."

(Photo: DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images) A customer tries his Vision Pro at the launch of the Apple Vision Pro at Apple The Grove in Los Angeles, California, on February 2, 2024.

Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration condemned operating vehicles while wearing VR headsets as reckless, echoing the concerns raised by Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Buttigieg emphasized the dangers of obstructing vision with the Vision Pro in non-autonomous vehicles. "Reminder: All advanced driver assistance systems available today require the human driver to be in control and fully engaged in the driving task at all times," the Biden administration official stated, as quoted by The New York Times.

As debates surrounding Vision Pro's usage intensify, officials and safety organizations continue to monitor its impact on aviation and road safety, emphasizing the importance of responsible usage and adherence to safety regulations.