US carrier Alaska Airlines has partnered with Australian-based computer vision technology company Seeing Machines to develop gaze tracking technology.

The technology will provide insights into pilot behaviour when scanning and monitoring instruments during manoeuvres and procedures.

The collaboration has delivered a proof of concept to analyse how Seeing Machines’ crew training system can improve pilot training and safety for Alaska Airlines.

Seeing Machines’ crew training system is designed for use in an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Full Flight Simulator environment.

The system is intended to offer ‘objective, evidence-based data’ to Alaska Airlines pilots and flight instructors.

It aims to offer a better view into instrument scanning behaviour, leading to improved situational awareness and pilot training outcomes.

Seeing Machines Aviation general manager Patrick Nolan said: “Working with Alaska Airlines means partnering with one of the world’s most advanced and forward-thinking flight training organisations.

“This relationship will offer direct insight into Boeing and Airbus aircraft type flight training operations across a diverse and expanding network and help us leverage our experience to support Alaska Airlines and the aviation industry more broadly.”

Alaska Airlines has already adopted a number of advanced aviation technologies, including required navigation performance systems.

It has also deployed GPS and enhanced ground proximity warning system technologies.

Alaska Airlines director of training Jeff Severns said: “We are excited about this partnership and look forward to seeing where this capability can go within the industry to enhance safety and support better training outcomes.”