United
guests may now reach cruising altitude with a new, personalized
in-flight entertainment system. United is the first U.S. carrier to
offer iPod and iPhone connectivity to its in-flight entertainment
system, enabling customers to enjoy their individual content on a
15.4-inch personal television, all while the iPod or iPhone charges.
The first aircraft with iPod and iPhone connectivity is scheduled to depart at 5:40 p.m. from
as United #936, and it will fly primarily on trans-Atlantic routes.
United's entire fleet of international, widebody aircraft are being
reconfigured over the next two years with lie-flat seats, on-demand
entertainment, and iPod and iPhone connectivity in first and business
class.
Through
a cable that supports iPod and iPhone via the 30-pin connector,
customers may watch and enjoy their personal content on United's
in-flight entertainment system. Technology for the connectivity was
developed by Panasonic Avionics Corporation.
"Our
guests may now watch or listen to what they want, when they want with
programming they choose," says Graham Atkinson, United Airlines -
executive vice president and Chief Customer Officer. "United will
continue to provide services and technology that makes our customers'
travel experiences more relaxed and enjoyable."
"The
iPod and iPhone have become essential for millions of travelers around
the world," said Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president of iPod &
iPhone Product Marketing. "We think United customers are going to love
being able to listen or watch personal music and video content on their
iPod or iPhone via the in-flight entertainment system, and we can't
wait for United to roll this out to their fleet."
The
customized video and audio options complements the more than 150 hours
of movies and television shows available on-demand on United's
newly-configured international aircraft, as well as games and XM radio.
United was the first
carrier to introduce lie-flat business class seats in November 2007.
More information about these seats - and the International Premium
Travel Experience - is available at suitedreams.united.com.