Qantas and Samsung have partnered to launch a new trial virtual reality in-flight entertainment service.

Customers in Sydney and Melbourne’s international first lounges and in first class cabins on select A380 services will for the next three months be able to trial the technology and provide feedback on how it might add to their experiences on long-haul flights.

The VR headsets will “transport customers to an immersive virtual world at the click of a button and showcase the sights and delights of network destinations, new Qantas products and the latest inflight blockbuster movies”, the company says.

Qantas Group executive, brand, marketing and corporate affairs, Olivia Wirth says the VR technology trial is an industry first.

“Qantas is committed to being at the forefront of innovation to give our passengers the very best and latest in-flight experiences, like accessing the virtual worlds of their favourite Hollywood blockbusters from the comfort of their seat 40,000 feet above the ground.

“It’s also a fantastic tool to feature our network’s destinations, inspiring travel and promoting tourism.”

Production company Jaunt is partnering with Qantas to develop live-action content including destination footage, the first being a 3D experience of Kakadu National Park.

The Northern Territory’s chief minister and minister for tourism, Adam Giles, said: “This innovation literally adds a new dimension to how visitors experience Kakadu.”

Samsung Electronics Australia CMO Arno Lenior said: “We believe Samsung Gear VR, one of the latest innovations from Samsung, will open new worlds for Qantas customers who experience the technology for themselves.”