6 Innovative In-Flight Technologies Keeping Passengers Distracted

The days of one type of in-flight entertainment (IFE) for the rich at the front of the aircraft and another for the poor folks stuck at the back are still with us -- and staying that way. But advances in technology are giving birth to the era of "trickle down IFE"—flexible systems which let airlines to pass on the benefits of premium entertainment content to cabin sections and on routes where, previously, little or no IFE was available. Airlines have recognized that they must do something to appease weary and crowded passengers. IFE systems play an important role in this strategy, but traditional embedded seat-back IFE systems represent a large capital investment, and require more investment in new seats built-to-fit or a retrofit of existing seats—neither of which is cheap. Plus, the regulatory requirements and lead-times to develop these systems often means they are dated compared to other consumer electronics, even immediately after their installation. Because of this,