When we started making Shirley, we set out to make a product that was useful, helpful, and—in a lot of ways, most importantly—fun!
We truly want to be your AI copilot from sim to sky! But that’s no small task.
“I think the idea of having someone in the cockpit that kinda knows everything, because it’s a computer, and you can talk to it, is kind of what I imagine the future of flying to be like.”
You see, if it’s not fun, then what sets us apart from all the other boring flight training articles, overpriced tutorial videos and monotonous how-to slide decks already on the market? If its not engaging, interactive, and fun, what’s the point?!
Well, so far, we think we are doing a pretty good job. And we think you’ll agree.
YouTuber Swiss001 seems to!
Check out his latest video here.
This video is the perfect example of how we expected—and didn’t expect—Shirley to be used!
And that’s great!
“What I’m very impressed by is the performance. This thing answers so quickly… it’s like talking to a real human”
In the video you’ll see him ask Shirley about checklists. He does a cockpit familiarization (with a very adaptable Shirley), asks about takeoff performance, and runs through an engine out procedure! He even tests Shirley a bit by asking him questions straight from the POH. All the while, Shirley responds quickly, intelligently, and with a bit of humor. This is a great example of how FlyShirley.com can help with flight training.
These capabilities are at the heart of Shirley. A knowledgeable AI copilot that provides accurate, personalized information quickly.
“It’s kind of cool to have this Yoda…in your cockpit that actually answers any question that you have about your airplane.”
But of course, we want it to be engaging. We want folks to enjoy using Shirley, and we knew that, like any technology, users would experiment with and use Shirley in ways we never anticipated.
That’s why, while a bit silly, we are thrilled to watch Swiss001 ask Shirley about loneliness or for help flying a glider behind a Tomcat fighter jet! And to hear Shirley’s response!
That personalization… that personality… is all part of the experience.
So from the development team: Don’t be afraid to have fun with Shirley!
It is an amazing training tool, quick reference, and fun copilot. Each response from Shirley is completely unique and tailored to your current position, situation, and question.
For even more fun, try your hand at creating a unique Challenge to share with friends. Maybe something like “Butteriest Landing…”