Virgin Atlantic is to pilot the use of Google Glass to improve customer services.

The technology will be deployed in the airline's upper class wing, allowing staff to update passengers on departure times, local events at their destination and translate foreign language information. It is hoped the trial could be expanded to give employees more details about their customers, such as dietary and refreshment preferences. 

Director of IT Dave Bulman said: "We are upholding Virgin Atlantic's long tradition of shaking things up and putting innovation at the heart of the flying experience."

The airline is also trialling iBeacon with its upper class passengers. This is a low-powered bluetooth transmitter which will notify nearby Apple devices on services and discounts at Heathrow, plus give passengers information on departure times.

It is not the first time Virgin Atlantic has sought to branch out into new technology. It became the first airline to allow SMS texting on flights in 2011. 3G services are now available on all A330 aircraft, while its 787 fleet will be equipped with 4G.

The Google Glass trial will run for six weeks and if successful, could be expanded as part of the airline's commitment to providing better service to its customers.