Budget carrier signals the end of inflight entertainment as we know it
A low-cost airline is planning to ditch the traditional inflight entertainment systems on long-haul flights when it launches services from Gatwick to Canada next year.
WestJet reportedly told The Times that instead of installing seat-back screens it will stream movies to passengers’ own mobile devices.
It said that as 80% of its passengers board with smartphones or tablets, it will provide an app which will allow them to stream content for free.
WestJet said it will offer more than 450 films and TV programmes through its own entertainment system, WestJet Connect.
Each seat will be fitted with power sockets and USB points so passengers can charge their devices.
The move will save more than 1,500lbs from each plane, reducing fuel burn and the cost of flying, it said.
Calgary-based WestJet announced this summer that it planned to launch flights to London Gatwick next spring.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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