Ingenious: Virtual reality jetpacks now available in Paris

The French company Flyview offers virtual jetpack trips over the rooftops of Paris. A jetpack simulator has been specially designed for this purpose.

A rather futuristic form of sightseeing: each visitor experiences a personalised virtual flight to the most famous destinations in Paris such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde, the Arc de Triomphe, the River Seine, Pont des Arts, Grand Palais or Notre-Dame.

The innovative company Flyview promises detailed close-ups of the sights, which have been authorised in this form for the first time by the city of Paris. Visitors can view the monuments from different angles and up close.

Flyview's VR experience consists of two components: A drone equipped with seven 360-degree cameras recorded the aerial shots of Paris. Visitors view these as a 360-degree video with HTC Vive. A mechanical jetpack simulator provides the movements to match the video: Visitors stand on a kind of running board that is moved by motors synchronised with the VR experience. The take-off of the jetpack, stops for panoramic views, lateral flight manoeuvres and landings next to a landmark are simulated.

Not for people with a fear of heights

According to Flyview, the synchronisation of vision and movement - unlike VR goggles for the home - should prevent VR nausea for "the majority of visitors". However, the company advises people with a fear of heights not to take a virtual jetpack flight.

The unusual VR attraction recently opened in Paris on 31 March. According to Flyview, the first jetpack hall with 50 jetpack simulators is one of the world's largest virtual reality installations. The devices were designed and built in France.

Over 100 people are said to have been involved in the realisation of the project over the last three years. It is financially supported by investors. The operators would like to expand worldwide and are looking for potential franchise partners.

A flight takes around 13 minutes and costs 15 euros. The attraction is open daily and tickets can be purchased via the official website be booked.

This application brings you one step closer to the dream of flying like a bird.

Source: Vrodo, Youtube, Flyview